Chiswick Primary School

Project Overview 

Project Overview

Radius Group was appointed by PA Finlay to support a complex structural steel installation as part of a primary school extension in Chiswick, London. The project involved the installation of a twin steel beam measuring 11m and weighing approximately 5,000kg, within a highly restricted working area beneath a retained building facade. With existing temporary works already in place to support the structure, Radius was required to develop a fully independent lifting and installation solution that allowed the steelwork to be safely positioned, without transferring load to the temporary support.

The Challenge

The beam needed to be:

• Moved approximately 2m horizontally
• Raised more than 4m vertically
• Installed between existing temporary works
• Positioned across differing internal and external floor level

The installation therefore required a carefully engineered sequence that maintained full control of the load throughout.

The Radius Solution

Following a detailed site survey, Radius Group’s Appointed Person developed a bespoke lifting and installation methodology tailored to the project constraints.

The solution incorporated:

• Twin A-Frame lifting arrangements
• Timber cribbage for temporary support
• Radius Group’s bespoke skidding system
• Hydraulic cube jacks for final elevation
• A full CPA Contract Lift

This allowed the beam to be safely raised, transferred, aligned and incrementally lifted into its final position before being connected to the new structural supports.

Additional Works

Following the successful installation of the primary beam, the remaining structural steel members were also installed as part of the wider sequence. Radius also provided a full CPA Contract Lift, along with aluminium trackway and protective foam to protect the school playground and surrounding areas.

Outcome

The works were completed safely, on programme and within budget, demonstrating Radius Group’s ability to deliver engineered lifting and installation solutions in constrained and sensitive environments. The project also marked a successful first collaboration with PA Finlay.

Need support with a complex lift or structural installation?

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