Floorspan Contracts Develops Viewing Platform for Johnsons of Old Hurst Lion Enclosure
In July 2023, Floorspan Contracts was approached by Johnsons of Old Hurst, a popular visitor attraction in Cambridgeshire, to assist in the development of a viewing platform for their new lion enclosure. The project required a solution that was strong, safe, and durable enough to support high foot traffic while blending seamlessly with the natural environment. The hollowcore plank proved to be the perfect choice for this unique project.
Project Overview
Johnsons of Old Hurst, known for its superb farm shop and captivating wildlife exhibits, needed a first-floor viewing platform that would provide visitors with a secure and elevated vantage point to observe the lions. Floorspan Contracts was tasked with creating a platform that could withstand the demands of daily use, offer easy installation, and meet the project deadline.
The Challenge
The main challenge for this this project was to design and install a platform that could:
Support high foot traffic while ensuring structural integrity.
Be lightweight enough for easy installation.
Offer long-term durability and visitor safety.
Be delivered and installed on time to align with the lion exhibit's opening date.
Floorspans Solution: Hollowcore Plank
After careful assessment, Floorspan Contracts determined that 150mm hollowcore planks were the ideal solution for the viewing platform. Hollowcore planks are known for their superior load-bearing capabilities, making them a top choice for high-traffic areas. These planks are precast concrete slabs with internal hollow cores, reducing their overall weight while maintaining exceptional strength and durability.
Our Approach
Floorspan Contracts collaborated closely with Johnsons of Old Hurst to ensure the platform met all safety and design requirements. We developed a custom platform design tailored to the dimensions and functionality needed for the lion enclosure.
The 150mm hollowcore planks were manufactured at Floorspan’s state-of-the-art facility. Each plank was precision-engineered to be lightweight, structurally sound, and easy to transport and install.
Floorspan delivered the hollowcore planks to the site, where they were installed with minimal disruption. Thanks to the precision in manufacturing and our efficient installation process, the project stayed on schedule, ensuring the platform was ready for the exhibit’s opening.
Project outcome
The viewing platform, built with hollowcore planks, was completed on time and has become a key feature of the lion enclosure. The planks provided the necessary strength, safety, and durability, allowing visitors to enjoy an elevated view of the lions. The platform also integrates well with the natural aesthetics of the enclosure, adding to the overall visitor experience.
The use of hollowcore planks ensured that the platform could withstand the rigours of daily foot traffic while maintaining a lightweight design for easy installation. Johnsons of Old Hurst is now able to offer its guests a safe, immersive, and enjoyable experience when viewing the lions.
Why Choose Floorspan Contracts?
At Floorspan Contracts, we specialise in delivering high-quality precast concrete solutions that meet the specific needs of each project. Our work on the Johnsons of Old Hurst lion enclosure platform exemplifies our commitment to:
Custom Engineering: Tailoring our designs to the exact specifications of each client.
Quality Manufacturing: Ensuring that our hollowcore planks meet the highest standards for durability and safety.
Efficient Delivery & Installation: Minimizing disruption to the client’s timeline with prompt and professional service.
Johnsons of old hurst
Johnsons of Old Hurst provide a variety of activities including their tea room, zoo, farm shop and steak house.
To find out more about what you can get up to, visit their website www.johnsonsofoldhurst.co.uk
Don’t forget to visit them at their latest event, Halloween at Johnsons of Old Hurst. Coming 30th October there is fun for all of the family!
