TypeTen were appointed by ISG to complete works on a new secondary school in Acton, Ark Soane Academy. The scope of work included undertaking full clearance of the 3-acre existing site; demolition of several buildings with enabling works. We were tasked with keeping noise levels monitored and keeping dust and vibrations to achieve a BREEAM rating of Very Good. The site was particularly tight and contained, so movements had to be planned meticulously.

We started with a full strip-out to shell and core, identifying pockets of asbestos and lead paint that needed safely removing. Once safe to do so and scaffolding had been installed, we held a controlled demolition of the 6-storey, 200,000 sq. ft. structure and surrounding outbuildings down to ground floor level. 50tn and 20tn excavators coordinated to clear materials in the tight area which were crushed on site into 6F2 grade for use in the enabling works. After the ground floor slab, basement, and foundations were demolished, the area was backfilled with the crushed material. This was done with careful consideration to water control due to the work taking place below water table level and led to compacted layers forming a pile matt for the next stage of work.

In conjunction with the demolition, we conducted specialist tree surgery, which formed access roadways and fully cleared all top surface material and tarmacadam. Upon completion, the foundations for the new school were solid and ready for the next stage of development.