How to Choose the Right Bollard: Complete UK Buyer's Guide 2025
Bollards are one of the most versatile pieces of street furniture available, yet choosing the wrong type is a costly mistake. Whether you need to protect a shopfront, manage parking, deter ram raids, or add decorative value to a heritage streetscape, this guide covers everything you need to know before buying.
Key Questions Before You Buy
- What threat are you mitigating? Vehicle intrusion, unauthorised parking, or aesthetic control?
- Is this a permanent or temporary installation?
- Do you need access through the bollard line?
- What is the substrate? (concrete, tarmac, block paving)
- Are there planning constraints? (conservation area, listed building)
Types of Bollard
| Type | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Steel | Perimeter security, shopfronts | High impact resistance |
| Removable / Lockable | Controlled access, car parks | Key-operated, flush when removed |
| Retractable / Rising | Pedestrian zones, emergency access | Hydraulic/electric operation |
| Flexible Rubber | Car parks, low-speed areas | Rebounds on impact, low cost |
| Concrete | Heavy perimeter duty | Very high mass, low maintenance |
| Ornamental / Cast Iron | Heritage areas, town centres | Aesthetics + function |
| Certified Anti-Ram (PAS 68 / IWA 14) | High-security sites | Vehicle impact rated |
Material Guide
Steel Bollards
Hot-dip galvanised or powder-coated steel is the UK standard for most commercial and highway applications. Marine-grade stainless steel (316 grade) is recommended for coastal or high-moisture environments.
Rubber & Polyurethane Bollards
Ideal for car parks and low-risk environments. They flex on impact and return to shape, reducing damage to both vehicle and post. Surface-mounted with anchor bolts — no coring required.
Concrete Bollards
Used where high mass is the primary security requirement. See our concrete barriers range.
Height & Diameter Specifications
- 750mm–1000mm above ground: Standard pedestrian protection height
- 1000mm+: High-visibility or heritage applications
- 600mm minimum: Recommended by DfT for vehicle deterrence
Diameter typically ranges from 76mm (light duty) to 219mm (heavy security). Spacing between bollards should not exceed 1500mm for vehicle deterrence — see our security bollards collection.
Installation Methods
Core-Drilled (In-Ground)
The most secure fixing method. Required for certified anti-ram units.
Surface-Mounted (Bolt-Down)
Four-bolt flange plate fixed to existing hard surface. Suitable for flexible rubber bollards and light-duty steel posts.
Do You Need Planning Permission?
In most cases, bollards do not require planning permission when installed on private land. However, if you are on a public highway, in a conservation area, or adjacent to a listed building, you will need consent from the local highway authority or planning department.
Cost Guide (2025)
| Type | Product Cost | Typical Install Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Rubber Parking Bollard | £30–£80 | £50–£100 |
| Steel Fixed Bollard | £80–£250 | £100–£300 |
| Removable Steel Bollard | £150–£400 | £150–£350 |
| Certified Anti-Ram (PAS 68) | £500–£2,500 | £500–£2,000+ |
| Hydraulic Rising Bollard | £3,000–£8,000 | £2,000–£5,000 |
Browse our full bollards collection, including parking bollards and security bollards.