Integrating existing structural elements into an architectural design can be challenging. This is especially true when structures of historical importance need to form part of the new building.
Building a new structure whilst preserving existing structural elements requires expertise and close collaboration between the client, architects, engineers and construction teams. The structural engineer is able to advise the best methods to achieve the design intent. However, it requires collaboration between all parties to develop the best solutions overcome any potential future risks and challenges.
The redevelopment of Halifax Bus Station
Halifax bus station construction project needed careful planning and thorough risk assessments to retain 3 listed structures. This included a grade 2 listed stone façade that was the former Sion Sunday School.
The structural engineer worked with Elland Steel Structures who manufactured and installed the structural package. This included the steel reinforcement solution for the Sion School Building. This enabled the listed structures to be connected back to a glass walkway leading into the main concourse.
The new steel structure achieved an efficient foundation solution
Stephen George Architect incorporated the listed structures into the design, while creating a modern, light and airy concourse. The structural engineer analysed various framing solutions, and the final design choice was a steel structure.
‘Steel enabled the creation of large open spans to form a flowing and flexible space’ Says Roscoe Project Engineer Jack Calvert.
“Section depths were able to be designed to be relatively slim, helping to achieve the architectural vision of a light open space, while also keeping the overall weight of the frame to a minimum to produce an efficient foundation solution despite some challenging ground conditions.” He added.
Elland Steel Structures supplied the structural package, including the fabrication and installation of 192 tonnes of steelwork. The new Y shaped, single-storey structure features exposed circular steel columns, and feature bracing and tapered sections in the eaves of the building.
A new bus station for the 21st Century
The project successfully preserved the historically important structures, whilst modernising the building to make it suitable for the 21st century. The new bus station is much more environmentally friendly and it has cycle parking, roof mounted photovoltaic panels and biodiverse wild flower green roof. There are also measures to enable the future introduction of electric bus charging points.
With passenger experience at the core, the new development had extensive groundworks to create level walkways throughout the building. This extended to the area outside the bus station with safe pedestrian walkways. Level-bus boarding will also make journeys easier for people with prams, wheelchairs and suitcases.
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