Case Study

Demolition Case Studies

Client: Robertson

Project: Ashton-Under-Lyne – Active Swimming Demolition

Robertson - Ashton-under-Lyne

Overview

This 8-week programme involved the complete demolition of the former Active Swimming facility. A team of five operatives, supported by a 13-tonne excavator, carried out the works. The site perimeter and surrounding access areas were carefully protected prior to demolition. Heavy-duty ground protection boards were laid across footpaths and kerbs to ensure that no damage occurred during machine movements or waste handling.

Extensive soft strip works were completed inside the building, including the removal of all floor coverings, timber, cabling, and mechanical and electrical systems. Once the soft strip was complete, the 13-tonne excavator was used to begin structural demolition. Dust suppression measures, including high-pressure water sprays, were employed throughout to maintain safe working conditions and minimise impact on the surrounding area.

Structural steel removal required careful planning and experienced machine operation. Large steel sections were lowered into the building using the precision of the excavator and the skill of the operator, ensuring controlled and safe handling at all times. Hot works were then carried out under strict controls, with permits in place and full PPE worn — including overalls, safety glasses, gauntlets, and respiratory protection. Cutting equipment was used to section the 2-tonne steel beams for safe removal.

Space limitations on site created challenges for skip placement and waste management. These were overcome through daily coordination with the skip provider, supported by clear communication between site teams and banksmen during all waste handling operations.

Results

The demolition was completed within the planned 8-week timeframe, without incident and with no damage to surrounding footpaths or kerbs. Robust health and safety practices — from dust suppression and hot works controls to banksman supervision and ground protection — ensured a safe and efficient delivery. The client commended the team for their professional handling of site constraints and controlled demolition of heavy steelwork.

Client: Domis / Hi-Tec

Project: Uttoxeter – Hotel, Restaurant and Bar Demolition

Domis / Hi-Tec - Uttoxeter

Overview

This two-month programme involved the demolition of a former hotel, restaurant and bar facility. A team of 10 operatives, supported by a 13-tonne excavator, telescopic handler, and experienced machine driver, carried out the works.

Due to the building’s historic significance within the local community, care was taken to salvage a wide range of items. Many were set aside for reuse, while others were donated to the British Red Cross in partnership with the client.

The soft strip phase began with internal removal works, supported by bog mats to provide stable ground conditions for skip loading. Roof slates were removed by hand using a telescopic handler and cage to ensure safety and maximise salvage. During this stage, works were temporarily halted when a bat was discovered beneath the slates. The Statutory Nature Conservation Organisation (SNCO) was contacted, and licensed ecologists carried out surveys. Once the building was confirmed to be clear, works were able to continue in compliance with wildlife legislation.

Following the roof removal, floor joists and structures were dismantled, with large volumes of handmade bricks salvaged for reuse. The demolition was then completed with controlled mechanical works. Hardcore was separated and stockpiled before being transported off-site for recycling.

Results

The project was delivered safely and within the two-month programme. A strong focus on sustainability led to significant material recovery, including roof slates, handmade bricks, and 21 wagon loads of hardcore, all recycled for reuse on future projects. Community value was also created through donations to the British Red Cross. The client commended the team for their safe working practices, responsible environmental management, and professional delivery.