Accoya modified softwood is being put to the ultimate test, forming a partly submerged bridge at the restored Fort de Roovere in the Netherlands.
RO&AD, the architects behind the project, which has just won a Union of Dutch Architects (BNA) Building of the Year Award, wanted to give visitor’s easy access to the fort, part of the 17th century “West Brabant Water Line” defensive structure, but not to obscure dramatic views of the site. The solution was to use Accoya piling on either side, in conjunction with a hardwood deck and steps, and to sit the bridge up to shoulder height in the water.
The architects’ confidence in the subaqua peformance of the material came from its use as canal lining in the Flevoland in the Netherlands. This was installed over 16 years ago, but “exhibited no deterioration”.
Accoya is produced in the Netherlands by Accsys Technologies.
