News
02/06/2006Local firm brings in monster machine
Louth-based demolition specialists GBM have brought in the largest demolition machine in Europe for a spectacular project in Leeds . . . the levelling of three 1960s multi-storey blocks of flats.
Because of the proximity of nearby homes . . . in one case just ten metres away . . . explosive demolition was ruled out and the giant machine has been brought in to start the sectional demolition process.
GBM Demolition’s Contracts Manager David Wall said: “Two of the blocks are twelve stories high, the third is fifteen stories. That’s beyond the reach of conventional machines.”
“The super reach machine we’ve brought in for the job is the only one of its type in Europe. It weighs 125 tonnes and can operate at heights of up to 50 metres. It will take off the top floors of the blocks and our normal kit will take it from there.”
At close to a million pounds, the demolition contract is one of the most valuable to be won by the Louth operation – and one of the highest jobs the firm’s undertaken.
David added: “Swarcliffe is a highly populated residential area and we are used to working in these surroundings. We will ensure that there is minimal disruption for locals who are delighted to see the back of the flats. They could not wait for us to get started.”
“Preparation work has been underway for several weeks and our specialist Environmental Team has been in to remove asbestos material in the buildings.
“Once the long reach has whipped off the top floors, the operation becomes just a big run-of-the-mill job, with between four and eight demolition machines and a fleet of lorries working at any one time.”
Close to three quarters of the materials that make up the blocks is being recycled. Metals are being removed and sent for scrap; concrete and brickwork are being crushed and used for hardcore in road and building construction.
The contract is the latest success for the Lincolnshire firm, now amongst the fastest growing demolition specialists in the country, which includes some of the UK’s largest local authorities and numerous household name companies on its client list.
David said: “We’re delighted to have landed such a major contract, which clearly had to be won in the face of the toughest competition from all the major players in the business.”
“It will be very useful to have this job on our CV, particularly at a time when explosive demolition is going out of favour. Conventional sectional demolition, which obviously offers a far greater degree of control, is now an option with structures of this type.”
For further information or comment please contact David Wall at GBM on 01507-607289
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