Client
Pick Everard and Severn Trent Water
Location
Cropston, Leicestershire
Overview
Severn Trent Water's Education Centre at Cropston, near Leicester, is set in beautiful woodland next to Cropston reservoir and Water Treatment. The Victorian Pumping Station (and original flue tower – which is now the observation tower) dates back to 1870.
Problem
The observation tower had suffered some cracking to the internal core.
There was a requirement for the provision of additional reinforcement around the central core, lateral restraints between the inner flue walls and ventilation of the inner core of the tower – all at upper level.
TBL Solution
We undertook initial investigation works by drilling through the core flue cap and surveying the internal construction with a borescope, before opening up small brickwork pockets to determine construction detail and internal integrity.
As an approved Helifix installer, we used a combination of 6mm Helical bed-joint reinforcement bars which were inserted into the brickwork of the inner core of the tower to reinstate structural integrity across the crack lines and wrap the core around its circumference to provide further stability.
We also used a combination of Anchor Systems combitech ties and restraint bars to tie from each wall across the central core to provide internal stability.
As part of constructing the new steps to the raised viewing platform, we incorporated ventilation ducting from the inner core of the flue to the outer wall of the tower.
We formed timber-framed inspection hatches within the ceiling to provide for future maintenance requirements.
Our works also included for new staircase construction, reinstatement of floor surfaces and coverings, plasterworks and decorations.
Benefit
We were able to undertake the complete spectrum of works – from initial investigations to carrying out remedial works on behalf of our clients;
By using the Helifix and Anchor strengthening and restraint systems, it was possible to avoid damaging the integrity of the building – given its age and history, and without having to resort to traditional “take-down and re-build” repair methods.
Repair works were fast, with minimal disruption to our client’s facilities (given its use as an education centre) and cost-effective;
