LOCATION:
London
EQUIPMENT:
AS332 C1 Super Puma
Overview
Radius Group was appointed to deliver a complex Helicopter External Sling Load Operation (HESLO) at Broadgate Tower, Central London.
The scope involved installing 15 Mitsubishi Electric air source heat pump (ASHP) units into a 34-storey rooftop plant room at Broadgate Tower, on behalf of British Land – a highly constrained environment with no internal installation route and significant logistical challenges. With conventional methods proving unworkable, the project required a fundamentally different approach – one that could be delivered safely, efficiently, and without compromising programme.
CALLENGE:
The original installation strategy became unworkable due to fire-stopping constraints within the existing structure – removing any viable internal route and stopping the plan entirely. A full reassessment of the lifting methodology was required. Multiple options were explored, including large mobile cranes, hoist adaptations, and alternative plant configurations. Each introduced additional safety risk, programme delay, or simply proved unfeasible within the constraints of the Broadgate estate.
The challenge was clear:
How do you safely install critical plant into a 35-storey rooftop plant room, with no internal route and no viable crane solution?
At this point, helicopter lifting was identified – not as the obvious option, but as the only solution capable of meeting the project’s safety, programme, and operational requirements.
Solution
Helicopter External Sling Load Operation (HESLO)
Working closely with BAM UK & Ireland, Helirig, and Heliswiss International AG Radius Group supported the development and delivery of a fully engineered HESLO solution – assessing feasibility, mitigating risk, and defining a safe and practical installation strategy.
A key innovation was the development of a bespoke twin-lift configuration for the ASHP units, incorporating a custom skating system to streamline movement and final positioning at roof level.
By pairing the 15 units into seven twin lifts (3,000kg) and one single lift (1,500kg), the operation was reduced to a single helicopter sortie; with all lifts completed in just 27 minutes 12 seconds.
This approach enabled precise installation at height within a highly constrained urban environment, while maintaining full control of safety, sequencing, and coordination.
Radius led traffic management, just-in-time logistics, and secure warehousing direct from the OEM – allowing for controlled trial lifts, load preparation, and seamless integration with the wider programme. Throughout, Radius’ engineering and project teams maintained full oversight of planning and execution, ensuring alignment across all stakeholders.
Results: Optimised Construction Efficiency
The helicopter lift was executed with precision and control, successfully installing all 15 ASHP units in a single, tightly managed operation. The HESLO was delivered safely, on programme, and without disruption – eliminating the risks and constraints associated with conventional lifting methods.
More importantly, it demonstrated the value of selecting the right solution, not just the most familiar one.
By turning an unworkable installation into a deliverable strategy, the project highlights how early-stage engineering thinking, collaboration, and specialist capability can unlock complex construction challenges.
Key Facts:
- Location: Broadgate Tower, London
- Height: 34 storeys (160m)
- Equipment Lifted: 15 Mitsubishi Electric ASHP units
- Lift Configuration: Seven twin lifts (3,000kg) and one single lift (1,500kg)
- Total Lift Duration: 27 minutes 12 seconds
- Lifting Method: Helicopter (HESLO)
- Client: British Land
- Collaborators: BAM UK & Ireland, Mitsubishi Electric, Helirig Limited, Heliswiss International AG
We’re here to make a difference
Radius Group are a dedicated team of experienced site specialists backed by an industry-leading technical department. We offer a comprehensive ‘turnkey’ service, from initial consultation to project completion.
