Structures

VEDA undertook a number of design requirements that could not be completed pre-tender as well as providing support to the contractor, Spence, liaising with the client, Network Rail, and the project’s architects when required.

During the initial demolition, Spence faced a number of issues which required engineering input. One of these issues was the discovery of a network of large pipes that directly intersected the new mezzanine floor column foundations was among the issues VEDA resolved.

A solution which involved encasing the service pipes within large plastic polypipes was devised. It allowed for the casting of the foundations around those services as well as protecting the services from any direct loading.

With the assistance of another VEDA colleague, Karan also spotted that a column due for demolition was a load bearing element, a detail that had not been identified by the original design team.

As the column was to be removed to allow access for travel buggies in the area, VEDA worked with Spence to conceive a new column arrangement. Sacrificial flat jacks were utilised to induce loading onto the new columns and allow for removal of the existing column.

The final element of these works was to install the new beam sections to transfer the load onto the new columns. However, with a large amount of services critical to the rest of the station, VEDA suggested installing the large beams in a series of smaller sections which would then be spliced. A portable gantry from the floor above was used to lift the beams into place and hold them whilst they were fixed.

VEDA’s engineer also oversaw all temporary works designs, supervised the demolition and setting out of the walls, and undertook the quality control/assurance checks of the concrete for the foundations and slabs.