Squibb Group were contracted to deconstruct two 16 storey tower blocks within the Gascoigne Estate; a residential area within Barking, Essex. The concrete tower blocks; namely Lexham and Basing Towers were clad in 3 ton pre-cast concrete panels.
Within each block were Asbestos Containing Materials (ACMs), which were removed prior to any work commencing on site. This was performed by our own in house asbestos removal division. In addition to the high rise blocks there were the 3-4 storey blocks at St Anns and St Margarets which adjoined the site. The scope of the project was to demolish all structures to and including foundations; all arisings being either recycled for on-site re-use or taken off site for disposal/recycling at our licensed facilities
KEY ELEMENTS
- Erect hoarding around perimeter of the site
- Isolate / disconnect all services
- Soft strip both tower blocks
- Complete demolition of both tower blocks and the 4 number low rise blocks
- Break out all slabs and foundations
- Break out all car parking areas
- Crush all demolition material to 6f2 specification and leave on site for re-use
Mini excavators were utilised due to close proximity to residential homes that comply with European Stage 111B for emissions and noise levels. These were assisted by a 120 ton crawler crane which negated the risk of collapse of the panels and enabled controlled dismantling of the structures. An eight board scaffold fan with a three board upstand was installed at pinch points as an added precaution. Dust Busters were utilised to mitigate dust. Both towers were fully clad in scaffold and sheeted monarflex to aid visual intrusion.
CHALLENGES
- Demolition of blocks in close proximity to densely populated residential area
- Demolition of blocks close to health centre and estate nursery.
- Risk of premature collapse as building is demolished
- Potential hazards due to noise, dust and intense vehicular traffic
