Jacksons Fencing preserving history

September 6, 2023

Thanks to a collaborative effort between the Oxford Preservation Trust, the Railway Heritage Trust, Historic England, and an input on security solutions from Jacksons Fencing, the Rewley Road Swing Bridge, has undergone a remarkable transformation in 2023 from rusting to restoration.

A journey through time

Dating back to 1851, the Rewley Road Swing Bridge played a pivotal role in the movement of goods and people during the 19th century in Oxford. However, changing times lead to its disuse and subsequent state of disrepair. By the 1980s, the bridge stood permanently fixed in an open position.

Recognising the historical and cultural significance of the bridge, the Oxford Preservation Trust embarked on a restoration journey to bring this historical treasure back to life. Jacksons Fencing was specified by the Railway Heritage Trust and Historic England to provide demarcation fencing around the landmark, playing a vital role in ensuring the successful establishment of the bridge as a visitor attraction.

Modern security meets historical elegance

To ensure the safety of visitors and protect the bridge from potential vandalism, Jacksons Fencing provided a thoughtful protection plan that seamlessly integrated modern security features with the bridge’s historical aesthetic.

In the pursuit of safeguarding the Rewley Road Swing Bridge, Jacksons Fencing introduced a total of 57 metres of 1.25m high Barbican Imperial^® fencing which seamlessly harmonised security with the bridge’s historical charm. The fencing’s unique vertical bar design not only exudes visual elegance but also serves as a robust barrier against unauthorised access. This fence choice is ideal for a heritage project as it offers the look of traditional metal railings but with a modern, stronger, and more sustainable tubular design.

Concealed connectors and the absence of visible bolts or fixings further amplify the fencing’s security prowess while maintaining a clean and uncluttered appearance. As an integral part of the protection strategy, a 3.6m wide double leaf gate was integrated, complete with a padlockable slide latch. This innovative latch ensures controlled access, reinforcing security without compromising convenience.

The specification of high quality materials was paramount for this project. The selected Barbican Imperial fencing was meticulously crafted from high-quality hot dip galvanised steel, equipping it with exceptional strength and resistance against the corrosive forces of time. To ensure the bridge’s appearance would not wither, a black polyester powder coating was applied. This not only adds a touch of timeless sophistication but also guarantees durability and a long-lasting finish. By embracing modern techniques, the bridge’s protective features are seamlessly integrated into its historic context, allowing it to confidently stand the test of time.

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