Cawarden demolishes former industrial units in Nottingham to facilitate a huge regeneration project to build a student accommodation complex and transform the site.

Working on behalf of Bowmer & Kirkland for Cassidy Group, Cawarden was awarded the project to carry out the asbestos removal, soft strip, demolition and clearance of the former Willbond Plumbing site in Nottingham.

Following some asbestos removal and the bulk of the soft strip works, the main demolition works could begin. This consisted of several large 1-storey former factory units and a 2-storey office block. Industry best practice meant several techniques were used to safely demolish the units. This included manual, remote and ‘wet-drop’ demolition.  The wet-drop demolition technique was used due to the bonded asbestos roof sheeting found throughout the site. All slabs and foundations were also raised.

Background monitoring was in place throughout the demolition works. It was also essential to maintain noise, dust and vibration monitoring to ensure the works did not affect the surrounding community.

Logistics and the movement of large plant and machinery were carefully planned to minimise the impact on the surrounding roads. The adjacent River Leen required extra care to be taken to ensure we did not disturb the river’s sheet piles or contaminate the water. The works necessitated a bespoke permit to be put in place – so we worked closely with Cassidy Group to develop the Environmental Risk Assessment and Method Statement.

To help minimise vehicle movements and to promote recycling, all hardcore was crushed to 6f2 by a mobile crusher and stockpiled on-site for later reuse into the construction works.

Early engagement with the client resulted in programme efficiencies – leading to the project being completed three weeks ahead of schedule. And to the entire satisfaction of the client.

The completed scheme will consist of over 700 student beds in a mix of cluster and studio layouts and will contain an amenity space, laundry and cinema room. It will be one of the largest new student blocks in recent years.

© Aerial photos Cassidy Group