Thorpe Lea Manor - CALA
Project Overview
Client: CALA
Programme Duration: 10 Weeks
Scope:
• Demolition of former manor house extended for office use
• Removal of asbestos identified within the R&D survey
• Demolition to underside of slab
• Grubbing up of foundations
• On-site crushing and reuse of arisings
Project Description:
Shorts Group was appointed by CALA to undertake the demolition of Thorpe Lea Manor, a large former manor house that had been extended over time for office use. The project involved demolition of the structure down to underside of slab, removal of all foundations, and preparation of the site for the developer’s follow-on works. On completion, the site was handed back in a condition that allowed immediate commencement of the main build works.
Key Challenges
1. Fire Damage & Unauthorised Access
Although initially anticipated to be a straightforward demolition project, complications arose when it was discovered that the building had been broken into and subject to a fire prior to Shorts Group taking possession of the site.
This introduced additional risks, including:
• Structural instability
• Fire-damaged materials
• Hazardous debris and contamination
2. Electrical Safety – Photovoltaic (PV) Panels
While utility disconnections had been completed, it was identified that PV panels remained installed on the roof. Despite the incoming electrical supply being disconnected, there was still a potential live electrical feed from the PV system, presenting a serious safety risk.
Our Solution & Methodology
Safety Inspections & Controlled Soft Strip
Upon taking possession of the site, Shorts Group carried out comprehensive safety inspections and implemented a controlled soft strip of the fire-damaged areas. All works were undertaken under strict control measures to ensure the safety of site operatives and maintain compliance.
Utility Risk Management & PV Disconnection
The issue of the PV panels was immediately raised with the client. Shorts Group was instructed to engage specialist utility disconnection engineers, who attended site to:
• Safely isolate and disconnect the PV system
• Confirm the building was fully electrically dead
• Remove the PV panels by hand prior to demolition
This eliminated all electrical risk before demolition works commenced.
Controlled Demolition & Site Preparation
Following completion of soft strip and safety measures:
• The building was demolished to underside of slab
• All foundations were removed and grubbed up as required
• All demolition arisings were crushed on site for potential reuse
The site was then handed back ready for the developer to take possession and commence the main construction works.
Outcomes & Learning
• Fire-damaged building safely managed and demolished
• Electrical risks from PV panels identified and eliminated
• Asbestos removed in line with R&D survey findings
• All crushed arisings reused on site by the developer
• Site handed back ready for immediate redevelopment
• Project delivered safely and within the budget
Learning Outcome:
This project demonstrates the importance of thorough site inspections on possession, effective management of unexpected hazards, and proactive escalation of safety risks. Shorts Group’s disciplined approach ensured that unforeseen issues were addressed safely and efficiently, allowing demolition works to proceed without incident.
