West Hendon Groundworks and Infrastructure

Groundworks and infrastructure for West Hendon regeneration project

  • Client:

    Barratt London

  • Engineer:

    URS & Scott Wilson

  • Location:

    West Hendon, London

  • Sector:

    Housing

  • Project Value:

    £3.5 Million

Project Scope

  • Demolition, site clearance, removal of existing foundations
  • 18,000 m3 of earthworks and remediation
  • Permanent and temporary sheet piling
  • Tower crane bases
  • Reinforced concrete basement and podium deck
  • Groundworks, foundations, substructures, drainage
  • Adoptable drainage and S278 access improvements
  • External works; block paving, surfacing, slabbing

Project Overview

Barratt Homes, in partnership with London Borough of Barnet and Metropolitan Housing Trust, undertook a large project to rejuvenate the 1960’s West Hendon estate. The multi-phase development for over 2000 new homes along with new roads, schools, and commercial spaces would provide residents with lakeside living within 25 minutes of Central London. We were approached by Barratt Homes to deliver commercial groundworks on phase 2 of the project.

The works on site commenced in August 2011 with demolition, site clearance and removal of existing structures. This was followed by excavation works to make way for the installation of a reinforced concrete basement.

The volume of the excavation dig expected at 10,000m3 rose to 18,000m3. We reacted fast, expanded capacity to accommodate the change and moved ahead with the build of the reinforced concrete basement and all the proprietary systems for the planned underground carpark. Works were carried out on schedule in preparation for the construction of a podium deck and completion within the anticipated strict 20-week programme. The impressive reinforced concrete structure - 1800m2 in size - was waterproofed and finished, ready for the next phase; the completion of an 85m tall tower apartment by Barratt London.

Within four weeks all drainage works were completed and connected to the mains, along with a 60mx3m wide retaining gabion wall. The tie-in detail under an S278 agreement on Cool Oak Lane proceeded without incidents.

Project Challenges

The presence of multiple trades on-site and traffic restrictions on the A5 required meticulous planning. Our project management team had to remain flexible to provide a reliable interface in a fast-paced and fluid development. The unexpected find of Japanese knotweed on site was dealt with swiftly, dispatching five truckloads to the dispersal site. The challenging works on the live drainage connection of a 900mm filler to ¾ bore were planned over 2-nights to ensure the safety of the operatives and were completed without any issues. The biggest and most exciting challenge for us was the installation of the large podium deck complete with under croft, providing support to the planned tower building.

Project Outcome

We completed the project on time and with commercial savings of £175,000 in the fast-paced London environment with numerous restrictions. Our ability to work well with the client and contractors, along with detailed scheduling and a pro-active approach, facilitated the successful delivery of the full infrastructure to support the wider development. The Vista building, rising some 26 stories above the podium deck - offering views of the Welsh Harp reservoir - is a testament to our expertise.

CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES

Find out more about the full range of Civil Engineering Services we offer or click on one of the following services below for more information:-

Bulk Excavations
Enabling Works
Remediation & Stabilisation
Highways
Groundworks
Civil Engineering & Infrastructure

For a self-delivery civil engineering company to support your next project contact ECL and speak to one of our expert civil engineers.

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