NEWS

British Waterways has taken delivery of picnic tables made from environmentally friendly recycled plastic for use along the banks of the Caledonian Canal in the north of Scotland.

Supplied by Oban-based Fusion Marine, recycled plastic is extremely versatile and offers a number of advantages over outdoor equipment made from traditional materials.

It is economic, aesthetic and environmentally sound, and also tough and durable. Outdoor products made from recycled plastic are rot-proof and maintenance free, which means no painting is required.

In the last year, British Waterways has taken delivery of 20 picnic tables from Fusion Marine for the Caledonian Canal to be used as a vital amenity resource for walkers and sailors. Many of the tables have been installed at Dochgarroch just south of Inverness to replace existing wooden ones that have become damaged or worn out.

According to Mike Lofts, operations supervisor (east district) for the Caledonian Canal, recycled plastic has proved an ideal choice.

“The picnic tables are very tough and long lasting and the lack of maintenance required is a major attraction, along with the fact that they are made from recycled materials,” he says.

Fusion Marine manufactures a wide range of bespoke recycled plastic walkways, fences, bridges, waymarking posts, outdoor furniture and similar products that can be used by the agricultural industry, parks, nature reserves and other recreational uses.

The range offered can also be used in the marine environment, including mooring pontoons and jetties.

“The sheer durability and long-life of these recycled plastic products makes them much more cost-effective than wooden alternatives,” states Stephen Divers, Fusion Marine managing director.

“Not only are recycled plastic products tougher and better value, but they are also helping the environment too,” he says.