Barry Pumphouse, Vale of Glamorgan
Introduction:
In the early 20th century, Barry was the largest coal exporting port in South Wales, and the pumphouse was built in the 1880s as an integral part, providing hydraulic power to the docks. The Grade II listed building had fallen into disrepair and was to be redeveloped for beneficial leisure use by the Client. The original structure was to be retained, including a basement within part of the structure.
A number of geotechnical and geoenvironmental ground hazards were identified through our investigation and recommendations were provided in order to mitigate the risks. The development was successfully completed, and the site is now a successful restaurant, gym, cafe and work/living space.
Details:
In collaboration with the Client, we scoped a site investigation comprising windowless sampling through the existing floor slab in the area of the building without a basement, and concrete coring through the basement floor slab. Given the physical investigation constraints (e.g. a lack of easy access to the basement level), a comprehensive desk study was used by ESP in addition to the intrusive investigation findings to prepare a Conceptual Ground Model for the design of a new internal steel frame for the development.
The project was subsequently the winner of an award for ‘Best Change of Use or Conversion’ and was highly commended by the RTPI.