Dunston Staiths – A historic Perspective
And the success of Owen Pugh Construction in the Heritage category of the Constructing Excellence in the North East Awards was made possible by HBPW’s prowess with temporary works.
The 526m industrial monument and listed structure – an all-timber jetty built in 1893 – is located on the Gateshead riverside, and once played a crucial role in the international transportation of Tyneside coal. It is believed to be the largest timber structure in Europe.
But the ‘Staiths’ has been hit by a series of arson incidents over the years which put the structure at risk, until government funding meant it could be restored.
Paul Withers, HBPW’s Managing Partner, said: “A combination of fire damage and old age, meant the Staiths, last in service in 1982, was in poor condition when we first met with Owen Pugh.
“Our role was to design the temporary works to support this impressive structure, whilst Owen Pugh got on with the job of literally cutting out and replacing rotting frames, whilst also refurbishing other parts of the Staiths.”
The project proved such a hit that it received top honours at the recent construction awards.
Owen Pugh Construction’s Contracts Manager, Lee Buchanan, said: “The judges were impressed not only by the degree of investigation into alternative materials technology but by the highly strategic and carefully planned approach to carrying out the work in an inaccessible and difficult environment.
“The clarity of thought applied to the restoration work was praised as being “impressive”, along with the close dialogue between the contractor and the design team, which created the necessary flexibility to make the project such a huge success.
“On behalf of Owen Pugh, I’d like to thank HBPW for its contribution. We are now through to the National Awards which will be held on Friday 23 October in London.”
In making the award judges commented: “The potential for lessons learned to inform coastal restoration work nationwide both in its scale and quality is undoubted.”
Removing damaged timber beams
Fixing bolts into position
The replaced handrail
Celebrating Our Success!