University of Portsmouth, Hampshire

Project overview

R.E.B Group undertook a programme of temporary works and structural column repair works at the University of Portsmouth, working for Quinn London Ltd.

The project involved installing temporary steelwork and propping to existing columns, exposing column bases through localised masonry removal, and undertaking associated structural repairs and reinstatement works. As the project progressed, additional requirements and revised structural details introduced further work to the original scope.

The challenge

The project required temporary support arrangements to facilitate work to existing structural columns, alongside the removal and reinstatement of surrounding masonry.

The scope covered four groups of columns, identified as A, B, C and D. The works required careful sequencing of temporary steelwork installation, masonry removal, column repairs and reinstatement.

As the existing columns were exposed and the structural requirements developed, revised details and additional instructions affected the extent of work required. These included changes to column heights, steelwork requirements, baseplate grouting, additional propping and cross-needling.

Managing these evolving requirements while coordinating temporary works, structural repairs and reinstatement was a key consideration throughout the project.

Our approach

R.E.B Group's scope incorporated a range of temporary works and associated building activities.

1. Temporary works and structural support

Temporary steelwork and slim soldiers were included to provide support during the planned repair sequence. The works also incorporated coreholes either side of existing columns and dry packing associated with the temporary steelwork.

Further temporary support requirements were recorded as the project progressed, including additional needles and propping and cross-needling to the arch.

2. Masonry removal and column exposure

Localised masonry was to be removed to expose the existing columns, extending from above ground level down towards the pad footings.

The scope also developed to accommodate increased column heights and revised details, requiring additional masonry removal and associated labour.

3. Column repairs and steelwork modifications

Column repairs were identified in accordance with the relevant structural specifications and revised details, including major column repair works incorporating revised steelwork details and additional connection plates.

Additional works were also recorded for increased steelwork heights and manufacturing requirements, reflecting changes to the original scope.

4. Masonry reinstatement and making good

Following the structural works, the scope included reinstatement of masonry in concrete blockwork around the columns and making good the masonry apertures after removal of the temporary works.

Additional items included brickwork, miscellaneous materials, labour, damp-proof membrane installation and infilling brickwork in accordance with subsequent instructions.

5. Additional instructed works

As the project progressed, further requirements were added to the scope, including:

• Additional temporary propping and cross-needling
• Roof lantern works and additional roof tiles and battens
• Additional skips and waste removal
• Shot blasting and additional labour
• High-level repair works instructed in September
• Additional steelwork changes and splicing recorded in September

These items demonstrate how the recorded scope developed beyond the initial temporary works and column repairs.

Project outcome

The project demonstrates R.E.B Group's involvement in a complex programme of temporary works, structural column repairs and associated masonry reinstatement at the University of Portsmouth.

The project required a coordinated approach to temporary support, exposure of existing structures, revised steelwork details and reinstatement.