The Stages of a Canopy Installation

At Able Canopies, we take pride in delivering bespoke shelter solutions that enhance outdoor spaces and support educational settings throughout the year. One of our standout recent projects is the installation of a large, custom-designed Coniston Freestanding Canopy at St Benedict’s Catholic College in Colchester, Essex, for whom we have installed a few canopies. A perfect showcase of how we work closely with clients to turn their vision into reality.

A Vision for All-Weather Outdoor Learning

St Benedict’s Catholic College came to us with a clear brief: they needed a spacious, durable canopy to create an all-weather area that could be used for outdoor learning, break times, and social activities, even during term time. With a budget in place and a requirement for a large-span structure, the school was open to either a wall mounted or freestanding canopy solution.

Above: Our design proposal based on the school’s vision and requirements.

Site Survey & Bespoke Design

In December 2024, our team conducted a full site survey at St Benedict’s. This allowed us to assess the space, understand the school’s specific requirements, and propose a solution that was both cost-effective and structurally sound.

Our tailored recommendation was the installation of two Coniston Freestanding Canopies, positioned back-to-back. This design delivered an expansive 16.5m x 9m covered area, totalling an impressive 148.5 square metres. To enhance accessibility from the school building, we also included a 5m x 3m Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy, providing a seamless link between the indoor and outdoor environments.

Above: The final design drawing – tailored, functional, and ready for installation.

Enhancing Comfort & Safety

To ensure year-round usability and added protection, we incorporated 12 side fills into the design. These provide extra shielding, which is particularly beneficial during windy conditions. We also partnered with Lonsdale Landscapes Ltd to install 270 square metres of artificial grass, creating a soft, low-maintenance surface that’s both practical and visually appealing.

Above: The space at St Benedict’s, ready to be transformed to an “all-weather outdoor space”.

Installation Timeline

The transformation was completed over a four-week period, broken into two distinct phases:

Phase One: Canopy Installation (12th–19th March 2025)

Lonsdale Landscapes carried out initial groundwork preparation between 3-11 March, readying the area for both the canopy installation and artificial grass.

Our team began installing the canopy on 12th March, completing the main structure within a few days – beginning with the frame, followed by the polycarbonate roof panels, and concluding with the side and back fills for added weather protection.

Above: The ground works have started. The holes have been dug ready for the canopy posts to be installed and set in place.

Above: The frame in place with the installation of the Polycarbonate Panels.

Above: Final touches – extra weather-protective side and back fills installed.

Phase 2: Final Groundworks (20th–28th March 2025)

Lonsdale then returned to the site on 20^th March to complete the landscaping ahead of our return on 26 & 27^th March to finish the side infills.

Thanks to our strict health and safety protocols, we were able to carry out the works safely during term time, at a schedule that worked for the school. This meant the canopy could be installed sooner than anticipated without needing to wait for a school holiday period.

Above: The fully completed Bespoke Coniston Canopy.

What the School Had to Say

We were thrilled to receive such positive feedback from St Benedict’s Catholic College:

“Super easy to work with Able Canopies. Install team were spot on. End result – Fab. Highly recommend.”
Service: Excellent
Installation: Excellent
Product: Excellent
Would you recommend us? Yes

Above: Explore the transformation at St Benedict’s Catholic College. From the original outdoor space before the canopy installation, through the detailed design process, to the impressive final result.

Above: The school added benches and bins, making the space even more inviting for students.

Are You Looking to Create a Similar Outdoor Space?

If your school or organisation is planning to develop an outdoor area for learning, dining, or recreation, our expert team is here to help from concept to completion. Contact us today to book a free site survey and receive a tailored quotation.

Able Canopies Ltd. design, manufacture and install commercial grade canopies, shade sails, awnings and shelters across the UK. We specialise in servicing the education, leisure, healthcare and retail sectors and have extensive experience working with schools, councils, architects and contracting firms.
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The Stages of a Canopy Installation

A Vision for All-Weather Outdoor Learning

Site Survey & Bespoke Design

Enhancing Comfort & Safety

Installation Timeline

Phase 2: Final Groundworks (20th–28th March 2025)

What the School Had to Say

Are You Looking to Create a Similar Outdoor Space?

Related product

Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy

Related sector

Education

See also