Mini-Metro Bollards Supporting Active Travel in Newbury
In December 2025, West Berkshire Council undertook a trial installation of TMP’s Mini-Metro bollard on Kings Road in the centre of Newbury. The scheme was delivered in partnership with Volker Highways, the authority’s term maintenance contractor.
The site had previously used traditional highways bollards fitted with cycle lane roundels and cycleway signage. At the same time, West Berkshire were looking to increase the use of retention sockets across street furniture schemes. The launch of TMP’s Mini-Metro bollard provided an opportunity to assess both innovations together within a live highway environment.
Eight Mini-Metro rebound bollards were installed to restrict vehicular access while clearly defining the cycle route. Each bollard was fitted with a 150 mm diameter cycleway sign on the leading edge and installed directly into TMP’s retention socket system.
The Mini-Metro is a compact, multi sign face highways bollard designed specifically for cycle lanes, shared use paths and active travel routes. Its slim profile and 150 mm sign face provide clear, compliant visibility without adding unnecessary clutter to the streetscene, making it well suited to locations where space is limited but clarity is essential.
As an RSRB bollard, the Mini-Metro is designed for use in shared spaces. The rebound base provides a more passive response if struck, reducing the risk of injury in areas used by cyclists, scooters and pedestrians. High visibility reflective panels help clearly define the boundary between carriageway and cycle lane, improving awareness for approaching drivers while offering cyclists a visible, physical guide along the route.
Installed into TMP’s retention socket system, the bollards can be easily removed, replaced or reconfigured in the future, reducing the need for repeat groundworks as schemes evolve.
After eight weeks in service, feedback from both Volker Highways and West Berkshire Council has been consistently positive. The installation has been praised for its visibility, finish and suitability within a cycle lane setting. The trial successfully addressed the access and safety requirements of the site while demonstrating the practical benefits of combining rebound bollards with retention socket technology.
For more information on the Mini-Metro or to discuss your next project please visit https://www.tmp.solutions/product/mini-metro-bollard/ or call TMP on 0121 227 8639.
