04 December 2025 | Jacksons Fencing
Ball Top Vertical Bar Railings Installed at Christ’s Hospital School
Christ’s Hospital School in West Sussex, renowned for its heritage and striking architecture, enhanced its grounds with the installation of new fencing around a car park adjacent to the gym and sports centre.
The independent boarding and day school, set within picturesque countryside and home to historic buildings and a museum, required a solution that would provide clear boundary definition while complementing the beauty of its surroundings.
The challenge was to deliver fencing that offered robust security and clear demarcation between the car park and the wider grounds, without detracting from the school’s historic character. The location, overlooked by the museum and other attractive buildings, demanded a solution that blended seamlessly into the surroundings. Safety during installation was also critical, as pupils remain on site throughout the year. In addition, the fencing needed to reflect the school’s values of sustainability and its commitment to enhancing the experience for pupils and visitors.
RB Fencing, one of Jacksons Fencing’s Approved Installers, carried out the project. They installed 105 metres of 1.8m high Barbican Imperial® vertical bar railings, finished with decorative ball finials and powder coated black. The result is a sleek and secure boundary that harmonises with the school’s elegant architecture. Barbican Imperial railings are renowned for their strength and durability; their tubular construction ensures rigidity and resilience, backed by Jacksons’ 25 year service life guarantee. The addition of ball finials provides a decorative flourish while enhancing safety in public spaces. Each steel ball is welded to the top of the pale, creating a distinctive feature that complements the school’s historic charm.
The railings also deliver practical benefits. Hidden tamper-proof connectors and fixings maintain a clean, seamless appearance while deterring interference. The spherical finials act as plugs, reducing crevices where dirt and cobwebs can gather, making the railings easier to clean and maintain. Vertical bar railings were chosen to preserve views of the attractive architecture; they also improve visibility for security purposes. The black powder coated finish adds sophistication and elegance, complementing the site’s heritage.
Environmental considerations were an important factor. Vertical bar railings are more wildlife-friendly than mesh alternatives; the gaps between pales allow small animals such as hedgehogs to move freely when installed in the appropriate manner, supporting biodiversity in the school’s green spaces. This aligns with Christ’s Hospital’s aspiration to serve as a “green lung” for the community and reflects Jacksons Fencing’s commitment to sustainability through long lasting products and responsible manufacturing.
The project was completed efficiently and safely, with minimal disruption to school life. The new railings provide secure boundary definition, aesthetic appeal, and environmental sensitivity. By choosing Jacksons Fencing, Christ’s Hospital School has invested in a solution that meets immediate security needs while supporting long term sustainability and enhancing the visitor experience.