Floating Aluminium Footbridge
Custom-Designed Aluminium Floating Footbridges for Every River Project
The floating aluminium footbridge provides an innovative, long-lasting solution for safely crossing waterways and navigable channels. Designed for local authorities, it maintains continuous pedestrian and cycle routes while adapting to the specific constraints of aquatic environments. Developed to support active travel projects, it meets the technical, regulatory and environmental requirements of river infrastructure developments.
The Benefits of a Floating Aluminium Footbridge
- Custom-Designed: Each floating aluminium footbridge is custom-designed by our in-house engineering team based on the specific characteristics of each site, including the width of the waterway, navigation level, tidal range, currents, the presence of locks and flood risks.
- Design Flexibility: Aluminium’s mechanical properties provide considerable design flexibility, allowing these structures to integrate seamlessly into their natural or urban surroundings.
- Regulatory compliance: Floating footbridges can be installed throughout France and internationally, with each project adapted to the standards and regulations applicable to river and port developments.
A Floating Structure Adapted to Changes in Water Levels
The floating aluminium footbridge is specifically designed to adapt to water level movements and fluctuations.
- The flotation system allows the structure to rise and fall with changes in water levels caused by flooding, locks and seasonal variations, ensuring safe and continuous access for users.
- The hydrodynamic design of the floats helps prevent branches, debris and other floating objects from getting caught, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring reliable performance over the long term.
Floating aluminium footbridges are generally anchored using concrete piles, a robust and proven solution that provides stability while accommodating changes in water level. However, the choice of anchoring system depends on the features of the site. As each footbridge is custom-designed, its structure can be adapted to any type of anchoring system to meet the specific requirements of the project.
Our floating aluminium footbridge
We are sorry, the project cannot be found.
Why
choose METALU
The Performance of 6005A T6 Aluminium
Our footbridges are made from 6005A T6 marine-grade aluminium, a material recognized for its high corrosion resistance. The natural formation of a protective layer of aluminium oxide provides excellent long-term performance, even in marine environments and extreme weather conditions. Its minimal maintenance requirements and full recyclability make it an environmentally sustainable choice, particularly suited to active travel infrastructure projects.
An In-house Engineering Team and Custom Design
Our in-house engineering team designs and manufactures aluminium footbridges tailored to each customer’s requirements and order specifications.
Safety and Regulatory Compliance
The design of an aluminium footbridge is underpinned by strict adherence to current standards. Structures are sized in accordance with the Eurocodes to ensure optimum resistance to static and dynamic loads. All METALU systems comply with CE EN 1090 requirements, providing owners with a high level of safety and reliability.
Customer Relationships at the Heart of Every Project
METALU is known for its responsiveness and strong focus on customer service. We work closely with our customers throughout their project, remaining available from the initial discussions through to completion and beyond. Because a relationship built on trust is essential to a successful project.
A Wide Range of Decking Options

Wood or Composite

GRP Grating

Recycled plastic

Galvanised steel
Options Available for Your Projects:

Paint finish

Lighting

Networks

Cladding
Frequently Asked Questions About Floating Aluminium Footbridges
Why choose a floating footbridge rather than a fixed footbridge?
A floating footbridge automatically adapts to changes in water levels, unlike a fixed footbridge, which requires more complex structures. It is an ideal solution for sites subject to flooding, tides, locks or significant seasonal fluctuations in water levels, while ensuring safe, continuous movement for users.
Does the aluminium footbridge require maintenance?
Aluminium is a very low-maintenance material. When exposed to air, aluminium naturally forms a protective layer of aluminium oxide, which provides long-term protection against corrosion. Periodic inspection of fixings, floats and anchoring systems is generally sufficient.
Do floating footbridges comply with current standards?
Yes. METALU floating footbridges are designed in accordance with the Eurocodes and benefit from CE marking and EN 1090 certification. They meet the applicable requirements for safety, mechanical strength and long-term performance, making them suitable for local authority projects and active travel infrastructure.
Can a floating footbridge accommodate cyclists and disabled people?
Yes. Floating footbridges can be designed for different uses, including pedestrians, cyclists, disabled people and pushchairs. Widths, guardrails, gradients and surfacing can be adapted to regulatory requirements and the needs of each project.
Do you have a project in mind?
Our team is here to discuss and help you find the right solution for your project.