Balfour Beatty VINCI and its UK materials suppliers have now provided over one million cubic metres of concrete for HS2 in the West Midlands as the railway’s network of viaducts and bridges continues to take shape. With a total of 1.9 million cubic metres of concrete needed for the 90km stretch
Europump President, Luboš Michlík, highlights the vital role of pumps in powering the drive for a sustainable future. As the global push for improved energy efficiency and sustainability intensifies across manufacturing, commerce, transportation, housing, and public services, pumps remain the unsung heroes at the heart of these transformations. Today, Europump,
Duncan Scott has been appointed to the Board of Directors at chapmanbdsp, a leading provider of building services and environmental consultancy. Duncan joined the firm in 2002 as an intermediate mechanical engineer. Since then, he has gained a vast amount of experience over more than twenty years. He has an
FI Real Estate Management (FIREM) has submitted plans to Chorley Council for a major 1.3 million sq ft industrial development, strategically positioned on 100 acres near the Chorley and Blackburn border at Junction 3 of the M65. Designed to address a regional shortage of large industrial spaces, the project proposes
A new season of construction is underway in Antarctica for the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). Specialist teams are arriving at Rothera, the UK’s largest research station and gateway for international science and collaboration. The season’s focus is completing the Discovery Building, a new, purpose-built scientific support and operations facility which
Sempra Homes has celebrated a significant milestone at its Broadmayne development in Basildon, reaching the topping-out stage for the first two affordable homes on the development. Helping to address the critical need for affordable homes in the area, this project will deliver 35 new family homes, including 17 social rent
Greatfields School, in the heart of Barking, East London, has officially been completed as part of a transformational build programme. Net Zero Panels (NZP), a specialised division of Net Zero Buildings and part of the Premier Modular Group, worked with main contractor, Auburn Group, to deliver the third and final
Aldi has announced plans to open 11 new stores across the UK in the lead-up to Christmas, enhancing its presence in communities nationwide. The first wave of openings includes stores in Sedgley in the West Midlands and Castle Douglas in Scotland, set to welcome shoppers this week. Later in November,
TWO planning applications have been submitted as part of a renovation project at award-winning five-star resort hotel Rockliffe Hall, with the transformation aimed at cementing its reputation as the leading resort with international appeal in the North East. The first planning application seeks approval for a purpose-built pavilion that will
Temporary works specialist Altrad RMD Kwikform (Altrad RMDK) has partnered with HS2’s construction partner for the Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) and leading civil engineering and groundworks contractor, Galldris, to support the realignment of the A452 road over the new HS2 rail line. Project Overview The A452 Kenilworth Road Overbridge
Balfour Beatty VINCI and its UK materials suppliers have now provided over one million cubic metres of concrete for HS2 in the West Midlands as the railway’s network of viaducts and bridges continues to take shape. With a total of 1.9 million cubic metres of concrete needed for the 90km stretch of railway structures, this means over 50% of the required concrete has been used. Balfour Beatty VINCI has three concrete suppliers, keeping their order books full for the foreseeable future, and supporting over 250 jobs. Aggregate Industries, Tarmac and Cemex have batched and delivered the one million cubic metres of concrete, with the milestone achieved on the Chattle Hill structure at the Delta Junction in North Warwickshire. There are 11 local batching plants supplying the concrete, five of which are on HS2 sites. The entire concrete programme in the West Midlands is managed by a dedicated Balfour Beatty VINCI team at HS2’s Kingsbury site near Lea Marston. The use of low carbon concrete mixes is an integral part of Balfour Beatty VINCI’s concrete supply strategy. High proportions of secondary materials – namely ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) as part of the total cementitious content is embedded into the design and specification for all mixes. Balfour Beatty VINCI has worked with its supply chain to optimise mixes based on the performance required, maximising the content of GGBS and minimising total cementitious contents to reduce carbon and cost. The mixes supplied cover a wide range of uses from deep foundations up to 30 metres placed via tremie pipes, large structural elements where the concrete is pumped into place, to the onsite precast factories producing segments for both tunnel lining and the large viaduct spans. A number of fully electric trucks are being used to transport the concrete to sites, with two of HS2’s batching plants able to run off semi-battery technology, further reducing the project’s carbon footprint. Balfour Beatty VINCI and their suppliers have also implemented a digital measuring system – VERIFI – which enables real-time monitoring, measurement and management of fresh concrete during transportation. This eliminates waste, cuts carbon and improves productivity. Chris Jones, Senior Construction Manager at Balfour Beatty VINCI Joint Venture said: “The planning, communication and logistics management needed to achieve this milestone cannot be underestimated. Working in partnership with our three concrete suppliers, the team have kept this massive operation moving, supporting delivery of HS2’s construction programme in the region. “Carbon reduction is a big part of our materials strategy, and we’ve worked closely with our supply chain to minimise the total cementitious contents in order to cut carbon and cost.” Jon Knights, Materials and Durability Lead at HS2 said: “The operation to manage the materials needed to build HS2’s structures is hugely complex, so this milestone is a great achievement for the whole team. “With more than half the concrete poured for structures in the West Midlands, we’re well on the way to completing the viaducts and bridges that will carry the country’s new high-speed railway through the region.” Aggregate Industries are supplying concrete for the Delta Junction structures, where the scale of HS2’s construction programme is now clearly visible. A network of 13 viaducts is being built over the complex network of motorways, railway lines and rivers in the North Warwickshire area. The Chattle Hill structure – where the milestone was achieved – will carry four HS2 tracks over the A446 Lichfield Road on the mainline of the railway between London and Handsacre. The structure is 165m long, 8.3m high and 23m wide. Over 4,100 cubic metres out of a total of around 10,200 cubic metres of concrete have been used for the structure to date. The A446 diversion to take the road under the new Chattle Hill structure was completed at the end of October 2024, with the second phase of construction set to start. This includes the central reservation piers, northern abutments and decks that will span over the A446. Tarmac is supplying to the southern end of the route through Warwickshire, along with Washwood Heath and the Curzon approaches viaducts in Birmingham. Cemex are also providing material in Birmingham, as well as for structures being built in Staffordshire. Construction of HS2 continues at pace between the West Midlands and London, with the programme now supporting more than 31,000 jobs. When complete, HS2 services will run between London and the West Midlands on a dedicated high-speed line before reaching destinations further north via the existing West Coast Main Line. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Europump President, Luboš Michlík, highlights the vital role of pumps in powering the drive for a sustainable future. As the global push for improved energy efficiency and sustainability intensifies across manufacturing, commerce, transportation, housing, and public services, pumps remain the unsung heroes at the heart of these transformations. Today, Europump, the European Pump Association, shines a spotlight on the critical yet often overlooked role that pumps play in shaping a more sustainable, energy-efficient world. From powering industrial processes and climate control in buildings, to enabling clean water and sanitation systems, pumps are essential in nearly every aspect of our daily lives. In this era of climate change and environmental responsibility, their significance in achieving Europe’s sustainability goals cannot be overstated. The Backbone of Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing and Industry In the manufacturing sector, where energy efficiency is a growing imperative, pumps are quietly driving progress. They facilitate vital processes such as cooling, heating, fluid transport, and circulation, all while consuming a sizeable portion of industrial energy. Yet, innovations in pump technology are helping industries cut down energy usage, reduce operational costs, and minimize their carbon footprint. “Industrial pumps represent a key opportunity for energy savings, given that they account for up to 20% of global electricity consumption. By embracing more efficient pump systems, manufacturers can drastically reduce energy consumption, making a major contribution to global sustainability efforts.” Building Services: Supporting Sustainable Cities and Infrastructure In the built environment, pumps are integral to efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, water distribution, fire safety, and waste management. As smart cities and green buildings become the blueprint for future urban development, pumps are pivotal in enabling the technologies that make modern infrastructure energy-efficient and sustainable. “Smart, energy-efficient pump systems are not just improving performance in individual buildings but are transforming how we manage water, heating, and cooling across entire cities. They are key enablers in the transition to sustainable urban living.” Transportation and Public Services: Powering Cleaner, Greener Mobility Pumps are critical in the transportation sector, particularly in electric vehicles (EVs) and public transit systems. They support battery cooling in EVs, enable more efficient fuel use in conventional transport, and ensure safe operation in air, rail, and marine travel. In public services such as water treatment and power generation, pumps keep essential services running efficiently and sustainably. “From electric vehicles to wastewater management, pumps are at the heart of ensuring that transportation and public services meet modern efficiency and environmental standards. Their role in enabling cleaner mobility and smarter services is vital to achieving Europe’s sustainability targets.” Driving Innovation in Renewable Energy Pumps are also key players in the renewable energy revolution. Whether it is through circulating fluids in geothermal systems, powering hydraulic mechanisms in wind turbines, or managing cooling in solar power plants, pumps are crucial to the smooth operation and efficiency of renewable energy technologies. “The future of clean energy depends on the efficiency of every component, and pumps are no exception. They are essential to scaling up renewable energy solutions and achieving Europe’s net-zero carbon targets.” A Hidden Hero in Every Household Beyond industry and public services, pumps impact our daily lives in more personal ways. Every time we turn on the tap for fresh water, adjust the thermostat, or rely on modern appliances, pumps are working behind the scenes to make these conveniences possible. In residential homes, pumps ensure the efficient delivery of water, heating, and cooling—keeping households comfortable, safe, and sustainable. “From individual homes to massive industrial plants, pumps are an often unseen yet essential part of daily life. They are indispensable to modern living and key to the sustainable, energy-efficient world we are working to build.” Europump: Leading the Way Towards a Greener Future Europump and its members are at the forefront of promoting high-efficiency pump technologies and advocating for policies that support sustainability and innovation. Through collaboration with industries, regulators, and other stakeholders, Europump is committed to driving the adoption of innovative solutions that reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. Ecopump is its flagship project, embodying the organisations energy reduction commitment. In 2004 the Europump Council endorsed the Ecopump initiative as the very cornerstone of the European pump sector’s energy and environmental policy. The Europump website now carries a dashboard that provides a real time illustration of the energy savings being made. Since 2016, these endeavours have resulted in the saving of 233 million MWh of electricity and a reduction of 163 million tons of CO2 emissions. Additionally, the incorporation of the Extended Product Approach into the upcoming revision of EU Regulation 547/2012 for water pumps could unlock a further 35 TWh in energy savings. “In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, it is crucial that pumps—often the unseen workhorses—are recognised for their potential to deliver significant energy savings and environmental benefits. Together, we can ensure that pumps continue to be a driving force behind the green transition in every sector.” For more information about Europump and the work it undertakes on behalf of the European pump sector, please visit https://www.europump.net/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Duncan Scott has been appointed to the Board of Directors at chapmanbdsp, a leading provider of building services and environmental consultancy. Duncan joined the firm in 2002 as an intermediate mechanical engineer. Since then, he has gained a vast amount of experience over more than twenty years. He has an extensive background in workplace strategy, guiding occupiers in sectors such as legal, financial and tech in terms of real estate strategy and building design. As well as maintaining exemplary client relationships, his successful track record of strategic leadership makes him a valuable addition to the company’s culture and future growth in both existing and emerging markets. He will also continue to look at process-driven efficiencies, underpinning this with chapmanbdsp’s commitment to sustainable practices, as well as supporting colleagues to reach their full potential in delivering world-class projects. Commenting on Duncan’s appointment, chapmanbdsp Chief Executive Ray Upjohn, says, “With a dedicated tenure of over twenty years at chapmanbdsp, Duncan has made a significant and growing impact on our organisation’s success. This promotion to the Board of Directors is testament to Duncan’s outstanding contributions and exceptional leadership over the years.” Duncan Scott adds, “I am delighted to be part of this Board, especially during such an exciting period of growth for the business. Maintaining a strong, client-centred approach has always been a priority, as well as fostering an environment where our people have every opportunity to succeed.” Duncan Scott’s appointment, effective immediately, strengthens the Board’s depth and range of experience, positioning chapmanbdsp for continued success and resilience in a challenging and competitive market. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
FI Real Estate Management (FIREM) has submitted plans to Chorley Council for a major 1.3 million sq ft industrial development, strategically positioned on 100 acres near the Chorley and Blackburn border at Junction 3 of the M65. Designed to address a regional shortage of large industrial spaces, the project proposes two substantial units to meet growing demand for logistics and industrial facilities in the area. The proposed development is anticipated to bring significant economic benefits, with FIREM estimating up to 1,300 new jobs and a boost of nearly £400 million to the local economy. Although the site falls within the Green Belt, the Central Lancashire Local Plan has earmarked the M65 corridor in Chorley as a key area for future employment and development. Tim Knowles, founder and managing director of FIREM, highlighted the strategic importance of the scheme: “There are currently no commercial spaces of this scale in the region. This development will attract a new wave of businesses to Chorley and drive job creation for the local community.” This ambitious proposal follows FIREM’s ongoing redevelopment of the Botany Bay site, a three-phase, 1 million sq ft project off Junction 8 of the M61. “Our latest plans aim to draw more inward investment into Chorley and its surroundings. As a long-term investor, we’ll manage this site as a driver for future growth in the region,” Knowles added. FIREM’s expansion has been rapid, with the firm currently delivering 2.3 million sq ft of new-build space in Chorley, alongside a prominent presence on Wrexham Industrial Estate, where it holds a 3.1 million sq ft portfolio. Nationwide, FIREM’s holdings span 15 million sq ft, underscoring its role as a key player in the UK’s industrial and logistics landscape. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new season of construction is underway in Antarctica for the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). Specialist teams are arriving at Rothera, the UK’s largest research station and gateway for international science and collaboration. The season’s focus is completing the Discovery Building, a new, purpose-built scientific support and operations facility which will support the whole of Rothera research station. Work now in progress The construction teams arriving in Rothera will first clear the large amount of snow which has accumulated over the Antarctic winter. From November, they will be completing the inside of the Discovery Building, and externally, the wind deflector and the roof. This purpose-built facility will undergo testing of critical systems so that it is ready to hand over to BAS in April 2025. Essential work will also be taking place across the rest of the station. Delivering Antarctic modernisation The Discovery Building is the latest project in a programme of modernisation which is transforming the way BAS operates in Antarctica. Modern facilities The Discovery Building provides up to date operational facilities designed to support the evolving needs of scientific research at Rothera, both now and in the future. Teamwork in extreme conditions With fluctuating temperatures and periods of extreme cold ranging from minus 22 to plus 15 degrees Celsius, Rothera Research Station is the one of the world’s most extreme construction sites. Working alongside partners, BAM, Ramboll, Sweco, GA Barnies, Turner and Townsend and Hugh Broughton Architects brings together the specialist expertise essential for completing this challenging project. Investment in polar science Elen Jones, Programme Director at the British Antarctic Survey, said: “As we gear up for this important construction season, we’re excited to see everyone’s hard work come together to complete the Discovery Building and bring it into operational use. This latest milestone is part of our programme of modernisation in Antarctica which will enable scientific operations and research on the continent for years to come.” Johannes Smit, Construction Manager at BAM, said: “We’ve made significant progress in the Antarctic to bring this building to completion. Our dedicated team even worked through the winter season to prepare for commissioning, and we’re now focused on connecting and fine-tuning all systems. This hub will drive safe, efficient, and sustainable operations as the heart of the wider facilities at Rothera.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Sempra Homes has celebrated a significant milestone at its Broadmayne development in Basildon, reaching the topping-out stage for the first two affordable homes on the development. Helping to address the critical need for affordable homes in the area, this project will deliver 35 new family homes, including 17 social rent council homes that will be allocated to families on Basildon Council’s housing waiting list. In a ceremony to mark the occasion, Owen Sparks, Basildon Council’s Strategic Director of Resources and Governance, placed the final roof top ridge tile, underscoring the significance of this achievement. The Broadmayne development is part of a larger initiative by Sempra Homes, in partnership with award-winning housebuilder The Hill Group, that spans three prime sites in Basildon and Pitsea town centres. Together, these three developments will bring a combined total of 166 social rented and private sale homes, aiming to support the housing need of the borough. Melanie Keys, Services Manager at Sempra Homes, said: “These new homes will provide good quality, secure living spaces for local families and are a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration and partnership working. Together, we are not only providing new homes but fostering community development and supporting local employment through these developments, with a key focus on delivering much-needed homes for Basildon residents.” The development will also enhance local infrastructure and public spaces, with Sempra Homes and Hill providing opportunities for local trades and apprentices to be actively involved in the construction of these homes. Robert Jack, Regional Director at Hill, comments: “The Broadmayne development goes beyond delivering 35 much-needed new homes; it plays a vital role in strengthening Basildon’s community infrastructure. Together with Sempra Homes, we’re committed to creating employment opportunities and skills initiatives that will ensure this development leaves a lasting, positive legacy for the wider community.” The completion of these homes is anticipated in 2025. For further information please visit www.semprahomes.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Greatfields School, in the heart of Barking, East London, has officially been completed as part of a transformational build programme. Net Zero Panels (NZP), a specialised division of Net Zero Buildings and part of the Premier Modular Group, worked with main contractor, Auburn Group, to deliver the third and final phase of the 21,500 sqm development. The redevelopment, which sits in the former Gascoigne Estate, introduced an ‘inside out’ design for the school, introducing larger classrooms with modern amenities. Teachers are now able to take advantage of flexible spaces according to their teaching needs. Originally opened in September 2016, the school is the centre of learning for 950 students, and part of a wider campus that caters to over 2,400. The school recently celebrated excellent GCSE results, with headteacher Richard Paul praising teachers and school leaders for their “unrelenting efforts and the countless extra hours of support.” NZP is dedicated to providing practical, low carbon panelised solutions to address performance challenges for buildings such as airtightness, structural and thermal issues. NZP was brought in during the final phase of development, to help ensure the school’s new, permanent location is holistically futureproofed. With fire safety a top priority for the school, NZP worked closely with all stakeholders to deliver non-combustible, fire tested panels with concrete flooring. Jack Randall, director of NZP said: “It’s amazing to see what has been achieved at Greatfields, a project we’re really proud to say we have worked on. From our perspective, it was important to look at each individual aspect of compliance, including structural performance and sustainability, as a whole. “Our holistic approach to helping customers helps maintain control over cost, carbon mitigation and emissions, compliance and combustibility, as well as futureproofing projects such as Greatfields School for years to come.” Mike O’Dell, Construction Director at Auburn Group, commented: “Working with NZP, we knew we’d have a partner that not only came with the exact experience we needed, but could also provide us with big picture support through their deep understanding of net zero as well as the compliance required for projects such as Greatfields.” The final phase of development was officially opened through a ribbon cutting event. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Aldi has announced plans to open 11 new stores across the UK in the lead-up to Christmas, enhancing its presence in communities nationwide. The first wave of openings includes stores in Sedgley in the West Midlands and Castle Douglas in Scotland, set to welcome shoppers this week. Later in November, Aldi will open additional stores in Horsham, West Sussex, and Muswell Hill, London. As the festive season approaches, further locations in Totton (Hampshire), Cribbs Causeway (Bristol), and Pwllheli (Gwynedd) will also debut. In addition to the new stores, Aldi is investing in refurbishments at 15 existing sites to improve the shopping experience for customers. These expansions are part of Aldi’s ambitious plan to reach 1,500 stores across the UK, supported by an £800 million investment into its UK operations this year alone. Jonathan Neale, Managing Director of Real Estate at Aldi UK, remarked, “We’re dedicated to making high-quality, affordable food accessible to everyone. Our new store openings reflect our ongoing investment in the UK, and we’re thrilled to bring Aldi’s unbeatable prices to more communities ahead of the festive season.” This news follows a similar announcement from rival Lidl, which has confirmed plans to open 10 new stores before Christmas, alongside the reopening of three upgraded locations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
TWO planning applications have been submitted as part of a renovation project at award-winning five-star resort hotel Rockliffe Hall, with the transformation aimed at cementing its reputation as the leading resort with international appeal in the North East. The first planning application seeks approval for a purpose-built pavilion that will house a flagship restaurant of award-winning quality. The second application focuses on restoring the hotel’s iconic Grade II listed Old Hall, preserving its historic charm while enhancing guest accommodations and experiences at the resort. The proposed 584-square-metre pavilion will offer a sophisticated, modern space with the external design drawing inspiration from colonnaded architecture and materials that complement the Old Hall. Inside, the venue will feature a bespoke dining area with an open kitchen, designed to enhance interaction between guests and chefs, offering an immersive experience that takes diners on a culinary journey inspired by the finest global cuisine. To complement the new pavilion, the Old Hall project will include the transformation of The Orangery and its kitchen to become the main resort restaurant and further elevate Rockliffe Hall’s culinary offerings overseen by the expertise of culinary director James Close, who was appointed in February 2024. Shauna Robb, general manager at Rockliffe Hall, said: “The proposed improvements underscore our commitment to positioning Rockliffe Hall as a leading luxury destination, placing the North East of England firmly on the international hospitality map while enhancing its value as a regional asset. “We are dedicated to preserving the estate’s rich heritage while investing in its future, ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional guest experiences and contribute to the local economy. Importantly, these developments will create opportunities for local residents to work in high-level food and beverage roles. Once completed, they will further secure Rockliffe Hall’s standing as a premier five-star resort hotel, attracting travellers from around the globe.” James Close, culinary director at Rockliffe Hall, said: “This project is focused on creating a world-class dining destination and is the perfect progression of everything we developed and achieved before joining Rockliffe Hall. Using our experience, our global travel influences, and the opportunity that the new build offers us, we are looking to create something really special for the North East that will be recognised and enjoyed locally and internationally.” Plans to revitalise the historic Old Hall feature thoughtful internal alterations that preserve its architectural integrity, while the external appearance will not be altered by the proposals. Key upgrades include enhancements to upper-floor guest rooms, and opening sections between the cocktail bar, drawing room, and terrace, ensuring a seamless flow for guests. Landscape improvements will also enhance the Old Hall’s north façade frontage. The architecture and design features a rhythmical colonnade on both the north and south facades, with the latter framing views of the River Tees. Materials such as the stone cladding, which complements the ashlar of the Old Hall, the lead appearance roof, which has similarities to the Old Hall Orangery, and design features like the pavilion’s stone mullion details that echo those of the Old Hall, will create a sensitive yet contemporary addition. The companies collaborating to usher Rockliffe Hall into a new era include; BSBA Architects, GT3 Interiors, Identity Consult and BRIMS Construction, Monarch Catering Equipment, DESCO Engineering – electrical and mechanical engineers, and BGP Consulting – structural engineers. Identity Consult are leading the program as project managers with IC Planning as the planning consultants, BSBA Architects as lead designer, and GT3 progressing the Interior Design development. After an in-depth exploration of key considerations including heritage context, and future sustainability, the chosen strategy introduces a contemporary building that complements the historic Old Hall, while ensuring its long-term preservation as a heritage asset. GT3 Interiors has drawn inspiration from the Old Hall’s heritage, its grounds, and the local environment for the newly enhanced guest rooms. The redesigned accommodations will reflect the rugged beauty of the landscape and its international export connections, incorporating design elements that pay homage to the region’s significant global engineering contributions, particularly iconic structures built with Teesside steel. Michael Simpson, director at GT3 Interiors, said: “This is set to be such an exciting scheme for the North East, creating a truly world-class hospitality offering for visitors – and the interior design needs to reflect just that. “Our designs are always rooted in people, making sure that their experience of any space is as enjoyable, comfortable, inspiring, and memorable as possible. For this project, we have been inspired by the region, blending references to its fantastic landscapes, built environments and pioneering manufacturing heritage with cues to the international destinations it has impacted. The result will be a series of immersive and engaging spaces that capture the identity and ambition of the North East in a luxury setting.” The Old Hall restoration is due to be completed in October 2025 and the new flagship restaurant build, in December 2025. The proposed renovations at Rockliffe Hall reflect a significant commitment to enhancing its status as a leading luxury destination. These proposals are now under review by the relevant planning authorities. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Temporary works specialist Altrad RMD Kwikform (Altrad RMDK) has partnered with HS2’s construction partner for the Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) and leading civil engineering and groundworks contractor, Galldris, to support the realignment of the A452 road over the new HS2 rail line. Project Overview The A452 Kenilworth Road Overbridge is a fully integral box structure with in-situ concrete base, abutments and wingwalls, spanning over 76 metres. This project is part of the vast HS2 landscape realignment of the A452 road over the new high speed rail line. The structure was one of the highest concrete pours undertaken by Altrad RMDK in Europe to date with a pouring height of 13.5 metres to one of the main wingwalls. The project’s success was critical in maintaining the momentum of the HS2 timeline, highlighting the collaborative efforts of all involved. The Challenge The project presented a multitude of challenges due to the complex shape and weight of the bridge. One of the main challenges was overcoming the complex geometric patterns used for the wingwalls. These wingwalls tapered in height along their length and also along their width across the base. Not only this, but the external shutters lean into the internal face to taper in width across the height. Where the wingwalls met the abutment walls, there was a complex movement joint that was required to allow for the expansion of the respective elements whilst still retaining the backfill that would eventually encapsulate the structure. The project demanded meticulous planning, coordination, and execution, with the additional pressure of adhering to a tight schedule. The Solution Altrad RMDK and Galldris worked in partnership, bringing together expertise and resources from both organisations, which proved instrumental in overcoming the complex challenges posed by the project’s scope. The contractor needed a solution that could be configured into various shapes and sizes, and so a custom specification was engineered using Superslim Soldiers and Alform Aluminium Beams to meet the complex requirements. Superslim Soldiers are designed to handle high loads, making them an ideal solution for a pour of this stature, as they were able to ensure that the formwork was able to remain stable under the pressure of the concrete. The beams helped maintain the structure’s shape and integrity during the entire pouring process, which was crucial in preventing deformities and ensuring the accurate formation. The Alform Beams provided a quick, durable and lightweight solution, allowing for simple installation, which was particularly advantageous on this high pour as moving and positioning formwork can be time and labour intensive. Despite being lightweight, Alform Beams withstood the substantial pressure from the concrete, working alongside Superslim Soliders to ensure that formwork remained intact and stable throughout the pour. This was important as it was essential that the solutions maintained the tapering shapes and dimensions of the wingwalls throughout the pouring process. Stuart Grant, Senior Sales Representative at Altrad RMD Kwikform, said: “The A452 Kenilworth Overbridge project highlights Altrad RMD Kwikform’s engineering capabilities and innovative solutions. Through partnerships, careful planning, and the use of advanced equipment, the project demonstrated the effective collaboration needed for this infrastructure development.” For more on Altrad RMD Kwikform, please visit www.rmdkwikform.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals