Skip to main content

FlexiPole installed on famous Clifton Bridge

A number of Ritherdon passively-safe electroluminescent (EL) FlexiPole signpost systems have now been installed on the historic Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol, west England. Completed in 1864, the Bridge was originally designed to provide a safe crossing across a gorge for horse-drawn traffic; the chosen method of transport in the 19th century. However it now accommodates 21st century commuter traffic with in excess of 11,000 vehicles crossing the Bridge every day. The custodians of Clifton Suspension
April 11, 2013 Read time: 2 mins

A number of Ritherdon passively-safe electroluminescent (EL) FlexiPole signpost systems have now been installed on the historic Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol, west England.

Completed in 1864, the Bridge was originally designed to provide a safe crossing across a gorge for horse-drawn traffic; the chosen method of transport in the 19th century. However it now accommodates 21st century commuter traffic with in excess of 11,000 vehicles crossing the Bridge every day.

The custodians of Clifton Suspension Bridge, who are backed by the Heritage Lottery Fund, expressed a need for an illuminated ‘keep left’ signpost that would be functional, durable and eco-friendly, but also fit in visually with the surroundings of the World Heritage Site.

5614 Ritherdon FlexiPoles were said to be chosen to grace the tolls at the entrance to the famous Bridge for their minimalistic appearance and low visual impact on the heritage of the site. They were also preferred, says Ritherdon, due to their EL material being more visible than any alternative light sources, especially in the adverse weather conditions that the Clifton Suspension Bridge is prone to, due to the height of the crossing over the Avon Gorge.

EL is described by Ritherdon as an optical and electrical phenomenon in which a material emits light in response to an electric current passed through it and, as it uses organic phosphor, is said by Ritherdon to be the most efficient light source on the planet.

Ritherdon claim that deploying an EL sign will save €118.95 [£100] a year and reactivate maintenance for a typical 300mm illuminated sign, with an additional saving of €17.84 [£15]-per-annum on energy which equates to 60kg of CO2. The Lancashire county, north-west England-based firm says potential savings are much greater for larger signs.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Messe München tips bauma 2013 to be biggest bauma show ever
    April 11, 2013
    Organisers of bauma 2013 say that this year’s event is likely to be the biggest in the history of the bauma show. Between 15th and 21st April, 2013, Messe München will be opening the gates on the world´s largest construction equipment trade show. This year’s event will cover a total of 570,000m² of exhibition space, spread between 16 halls, accounting for 180,000m², and the outdoor exhibition area, offering 390,000m². Over 3,400 exhibitors from 57 countries will be showcasing their innovations at bauma 2013
  • Workzones benefit from new mobile speed enforcement technology
    April 11, 2012
    A variety of new technology for temporary speed zones during major highway projects across the globe is about to hit the market, while other proven systems remain in demand. Guy Woodford reports The D-Cam P is one of four new mobile speed reading products for temporary speed zones being launched this month by Truvelo. Deployable solely as a speed camera or at a red light intersection to monitor red light offences, the D-Cam P can also act as a speed camera on the green and amber light phases. The machin
  • Cross safely with the SR-CROSSLED-S by Sernis
    August 31, 2021
    Similar to normal road studs, Sernis' SR-CROSSLED-S can be controlled with a PC500 unit.
  • LA’s Ribbon of Light viaduct cast into darkness
    January 10, 2024
    Thieves have been pulling copper wiring out of electrical boxes Los Angeles’ 6th Street Viaduct and selling it for scrap, prompting police to report that “the Grinch stole all the Christmas lights”.