DBR commissioned Alltask to execute a scaffolding project at the Natural History Museum in Tring. The project involved installing a temporary roof over the Rothschild library, accompanied by an internal birdcage scaffold to facilitate roof and window repairs. Additionally, independent access to the entire façade was required to enable cleaning and repairs of the stone, hanging tiles, and timber.
Installation: Set up a scaffold for access to stone, brick, and tiles, along with a temporary roof over the Rothschild library.
Complex Design Implementation: Execute a scaffold design accommodating the museum’s architectural intricacies without tying into 90% of the building.
Professional Execution: Deliver the project within strict timelines and meet quality standards.
Challenges
• Accommodating the intricate details of the museum’s structure, with restrictions on scaffold installation heights due to the presence of bats.
• Minimising disruptions to the museum’s daily operations and visitor experience, with deliveries restricted to Monday and Thursday mornings only.
Design and Installation
The project required a highly complex scaffold design by Henry Challis. The access scaffold posed several significant design challenges, primarily because it could not be mechanically tied to the building due to its historical status. This issue was addressed through a combination of buttresses, kentledge, and non-invasive physical ties, ensuring the structural integrity of the scaffold without causing any damage to the historic building.
Key installation aspects:
Temporary Roof Installation: A roof over the Rothschild library was installed to protect ongoing repair work from weather conditions.
Internal Birdcage Scaffold: Facilitated internal access for roof and window repairs.
Independent Access Scaffold: Provided complete access around the museum’s façade for thorough cleaning and repair of stones, bricks, and tiles.
Execution
Despite the complex architectural demands and operational constraints, Alltask successfully executed the project by:
• Employing innovative design solutions to accommodate restrictions on tying into the building.
• Scheduling deliveries and major operations to minimise disruption to museum activities.
• Maintaining high safety and quality standards throughout the project duration.
Conclusion
The Natural History Museum Tring scaffolding project demonstrated Alltask’s ability to handle intricate and challenging projects. Through expert design and meticulous execution, Alltask provided DBR with the necessary infrastructure to carry out essential repairs, ensuring the preservation and functionality of this historic site.
Alltask is proud to have contributed to this significant infrastructure project and looks forward to future collaborations with J. Murphy & Sons Ltd and other esteemed partners.