An interesting project
The project required the construction of a four storey apartment development above a main Thames link Tunnel. Included in the project was the conversion and renovation of the existing 1930’s apartment block with an additional storey to the roof.
Planning and site investigations
"Our investigations determined the precise position of the tunnel. We worked further with Network Rail in developing the method statement for the soil testing. A piled design was provided to transfer the loads either side of the tunnel with the use of 5’ deep concrete beams. Specialist 28m deep isolated piles were used to prevent loading of the tunnel from the works. Included in the project was the conversion and renovation of the existing 1930’s apartment block with an additional storey to the roof. The roof was not strong enough for the additional storey. However Croft utilised the existing structure and bonded further concrete onto the existing roof to form a composite structure. This meant that the existing concrete need only be cleaned and roughed and the new concrete cast on top. Thus saving time and money on the project. Croft organised material testing of the existing concrete to check how much it had degraded over the year. The concrete was founded to have high level of Carbonation and we worked with specialist supplier to protect the ageing concrete structure"
Deep isolated piles were used to prevent loading of the tunnel from the works.
Team work is dreamwork
We have worked closely with Network Rail to inspect the tunnel which required the train line to be closed. This project showed how the wide range of skills inside Croft; Working with Network Rail, Piling, Party Wall, renovation, concrete remediation, Steel frames, Timber frame, Large Span Trusses, reinforced concrete, foundations. The architect had informed us that we were chose because several of their regular engineers had declined to work on the project. Some might say they were a little scared of the complexity.
