Plant Deck – University of Gloucestershire
The Brief
Denton-Powell Ltd were tasked with designing, fabricating, and installing a galvanised plant deck as part of a refurbishment of an older university building. The project required seamless integration with existing steelwork and careful planning to align with the building’s architecture and operational constraints.
The project formed part of a Tier 1 refurbishment and was later recognised with innovation awards for its engineering and installation approach.
Task
- Design and deliver a 42-ton galvanised steel plant deck measuring 40m x 17m
- Fabricate and install acoustic perimeter screens, access staircases, and perimeter handrails with kick rail system
- Ensure all steelwork integrated precisely with pre-installed mini-columns and existing building steels
- Maintain programme continuity within a restricted, high-profile educational site
Challenges
- Refurbishment of an old building uncovered unforeseen site challenges
- Limited availability for crane usage and restricted site access
- Complex phasing with other trades working simultaneously
- Sudden site incident: a large sinkhole appeared, halting all work until safety was confirmed
- Requirement to minimise visual impact of plant machinery on the historic Gloucester city skyline
Solution
- Delivered over 100 tons of steel to site in just 4 days, coordinating closely with the main contractor Morgan Sindall to manage restricted access and crane usage
- Constructed the deck with pinpoint accuracy, ensuring seamless integration with existing steelwork and pre-installed mini columns
- Installed a louvered acoustic perimeter screen to reduce noise and visually limit the plant machinery’s impact on the city skyline
- Used galvanised steel to ensure long-term durability, safety, and structural integrity
- Adapted flexibly to site challenges, including safely navigating work stoppages caused by the unexpected sinkhole
Results
The project achieved high-precision installation on a restricted site while preserving the aesthetic and functional integrity of the historic building. Its successful execution was recognised with innovation awards, highlighting Denton-Powell’s engineering excellence and problem-solving expertise.
Denton-Powell have been working on behalf of Morgan Sindall for over two years on the University of Gloucester project. Their performance throughout the project has been above and beyond the norm, demonstrating professionalism, technical expertise, and a proactive approach to overcoming challenges associated with working on a challenging existing structure. This project involved significant complexities, including integrating new steelwork with the existing fabric (clay pots, encased steels, steel composition etc), managing unforeseen conditions and adapting to evolving requirements. Denton-Powell’s ability to respond dynamically to design changes and site conditions has been and continues to be invaluable, and they continue to work collaboratively with Morgan Sindall’s site team, consultants and other trades to deliver practical solutions within the client budget and programme constraints. I would highly recommend Denton-Powell Limited for any future projects.
James Lawley, Senior Project Manager, Morgan Sindall Group Plc
Work with Denton-Powell for precise, durable, and award-winning steel solutions. Contact us today to see how we can bring your project to life.
📞 01460 242114
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Sector
Education
Completion
August 2024
Timescale
14 Week Programme