Kind Post Retaining Wall: NHS Contract
Albany Lodge NHS – Replacement of an existing king post retaining wall
This project demonstrates the flexible approach that is a hallmark of CGS’s work. The client, Albany Lodge, an NHS Trust in St Albans, and the main contractor Interserve, were left in a difficult position when the original contractor, the Aspin Group went into administration.
Facts & Figures
Project Location
End Client
Main Contractor
Project Cost
Time On Site
The Challange
To replace an existing king post retaining wall using a variety of techniques to cope with the diverse ground conditions, a small working area and the imminent collapse of the existing wall.
The Solution
This was newly-formed CGS’s first contract, and they were quickly able to access what was needed and pull together a six-man team that delivered the project in just five weeks, despite needing to grapple with an array of tricky construction issue. CGS deployed an EMV piling hammer, torque head and augers and restricted access cranes to set 9 metre spliced posts at 1.2 metre centres with oak hardwood infills.
“With this job, we had to tackle major obstructions once we started to excavate. We uncovered hard-core from previous construction projects, which meant our piling technique had to be altered mid-works.”
Project Gallery
Danger of Collapse
There were fears the existing wall was in danger of collapsing. It was also a difficult site with a small working area, limited access and a steep embankment.
The original plan was to use a gabion wall, which would have required large volumes of material. CGS recommended king posts with spliced post sections to reduce construction time and cost. The savings this solution delivered, both in time and money, meant there was time to install a key clamp handrail and include landscaping work as part of the package within the budget and during the five-week schedule.
Building Client Confidence
“Our team worked closely with Interserve’s Contracts Manager to devise a project of works to give the NHS Trust confidence that we could deliver a great solution on budget and on time,” said CGS Director Chris Martin.
“One of the occupational hazards with a construction site is encountering unforeseen issues. This is par for the course in our industry.
“With this job, we had to tackle major obstructions once we started to excavate. We uncovered hard-core from previous construction projects, which meant our piling technique had to be altered mid-works.”
CSG mobilised a piling hammer within hours to ensure the work continued and precious time wasn’t lost.
Proud to Work for NHS
“The NHS has got more important things to consider than deal with spiralling construction costs or a collapsing wall. Now we’ve built good relationships with them we are keen to bid for NHS work in the future.
“I’m proud of the work our team did on this project and the flexibility we showed. This contract was completed last year but the COVID-19 national health crisis has shown everyone what a debt we all owe the NHS,” Chris added.
For more information: https://www.interserve.com