Temporary Works Engineering and Project Delivery

Securing a dangerous structure

Stress were appointed to respond to a building on a busy high street that had been formally classified as a dangerous structure by the Local Authority, following instability identified in a flank/gable wall. Due to the prominent location and immediate risk to public safety, urgent intervention was required.

Taking on a challenge

From the outset, the project presented significant engineering challenges. The existing construction was largely unknown, with no reliable information available on what the wall was bearing regarding the masonry, bonding arrangement, or internal make-up.

Further investigation identified a lack of adequate vertical support to the flank wall, compounding the risk of instability. These technical uncertainties were further intensified by the constrained urban environment, with adjacent commercial units and residential properties requiring alternative accommodation. In addition, the client faced severe financial constraints, requiring the solution to be carefully cost-engineered while still fully complying with Local Authority and safety requirements.

Rapid response to structural failure

Within a two-week emergency response period, Stress undertook a detailed assessment of the existing structural elements to establish load paths and identify critical risks. A bespoke temporary works scheme was then developed to stabilise the structure and enable safe progression of the works. This included the design and installation of external structural scaffold with lateral restraint, together with internal propping to support floor plate, roof structure and the remaining walls. Load transfer checks were carried out to ensure adjacent elements were not overstressed, allowing the building to remain stable and neighbouring units to continue operating safely.

Managing the project

The temporary works design also enabled safe access and sequencing for the controlled dismantling of the defective gable wall, Stress managed the project throughout all stages, from initial investigation and design to demolition, reconstruction, and completion.

Working with the Local Authority

Throughout the project, Stress worked closely with the Local Authority, commercial tenants and residential occupants. Clear communication and proactive coordination were essential in managing public safety risks and maintaining stakeholder confidence while works progressed on a live high street.

Identifying the structural problem

The root cause of the structural failure was ultimately identified as poor masonry bonding, combined with the lack of adequate vertical support. The defective wall was safely dismantled and rebuilt and the structure fully reinstated.

Effective timing and delivery

The project was completed and delivered within the client’s financial constraints, meeting all Local Authority requirements. On completion, the Local Authority formally thanked the project team for the safe and effective resolution of a high-risk situation.