New Hall Enabling Works

As part of the ambitious New Hall project at Locomotion in Shildon, County Durham, Nationwide Engineering appointed Rainton Construction to undertake the full enabling and groundworks package. MGL Earthworks was part of the delivery team to carry out bulk earthworks.

Scope of works

• Site clearance
• Removal of above-ground structures
• Cut and fill to achieve new design levels
• Disposal of various waste streams off-site

Challenges

Challenges included poor weather, a constricted site, a tight programme, numerous other contractors on site (grouting, piling, groundworks), the complexities of the MMP, and changing material classifications.

To maximise efficiency, concrete building slabs, foundations, perimeter walls, and roads were broken up and crushed to create recycled aggregate that could be reused on the project. This initial activity produced over 2000 tonnes of recycled aggregate, ready for placement during the groundworks package. A Factory Production Control (FPC) system (WRAP Protocol) was implemented to monitor the production of the material and ensure the required product characteristics were achieved and maintained.

Summary

MGL Earthworks worked collaboratively with key stakeholders and followed client requirements and specifications to deliver the work on time. The site was handed over to follow-on trades without delay and to the required high-quality standards. Rainton Construction is undertaking reparations, formwork, drainage, column encasement and grouting, and walls and floor slabs.

The new building and the broader on-site developments will tell a compelling story that reveals Shildon’s role in early railway development. It will be a crucial hub in the plans to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Stockton & Darlington Railway in 2025.

We are proud to create a better visitor experience, a safe environment for collecting railway vehicles, and a sustainable future for important historic buildings.