Anti-Ram Bollards: Protecting UK High Streets & Public Spaces

Anti-Ram Bollards: Protecting UK High Streets & Public Spaces

The threat of vehicle-as-weapon attacks on crowded public spaces has fundamentally changed how we think about street furniture. Anti-ram bollards — designed to stop a vehicle at speed before it reaches pedestrians — are now a standard feature of UK town centres, markets, sporting venues, and government buildings.

What Makes a Bollard "Anti-Ram"?

A genuine anti-ram bollard must have been physically tested to a recognised standard: IWA 14-1 (International standard), PAS 68 (UK standard, withdrawn 2022 but products remain valid), or BSI Flex 1660 (new UK standard). Without certification, a bollard is a deterrent — not a guaranteed barrier.

Performance Ratings

For most UK high street and town centre applications, V7500/48/90:0.0 is the recommended minimum specification.

Types of Anti-Ram Bollard

Fixed Surface-Mounted Bollards

Installed into existing paving with a core-drilled socket set in concrete. Foundation specification is critical — the bollard is only as strong as its foundations.

Retractable Anti-Ram Bollards

For pedestrian zones requiring periodic vehicle access, hydraulic or electromechanical retractable bollards rise from flush with the ground to full height.

Portable Anti-Ram Barriers

For events and temporary protection, surface-deployed IWA 14 rated barriers provide certified protection without groundworks. See our temporary barrier range.

Spacing & Perimeter Design

• Maximum 1,500mm between bollard centres for vehicle deterrence
• All gaps in the bollard line must be protected with alternative certified products
• Buffer zones of 5–10m from the nearest pedestrian area are recommended where space allows

Working with Police/NaCTSO

NaCTSO and the local Counter Terrorism Security Adviser (CTSA) can provide free, confidential site assessments for crowded place operators.

Browse our anti-ram and security bollards or our full bollards collection.