Brett Aggregates and Keltbray form perfect partnership

Companies working together and bringing their demolition and recycling expertise on key London Underground project  

A HEAVY-lifting crane towering above Earls Court is being used to lift out huge concrete portal beams, which were originally laid beneath the old exhibition and conference centre in the 1930s, to protect the London Underground lines that run below the site.

Significant progress has been made with the 120m high crane, which is nearing the completion of the scheduled programme. The project is a delicate operation; the District tube line is very close to the surface as it heads up towards the overground station and vibration has to be kept to an absolute minimum to avoid damaging the tube structure. 

As a result, works on this part of the mixed-use development are carried out in the early hours of the morning to keep disruption to a minimum.  A vital part of the project requires the removal of the 61 concrete portals (weighing between 80 and 1,500 tonnes), which will be carried out over a six-month period by demolition contractors Keltbray. 

The concrete portals will then be transported to Brett Aggregates’ Hithermoor site (in Middlesex), where they will be recycled into a range of materials, including Type 1, 6F5 and 5–75mm.

Terry Marshall, commercial manager for Keltbray, is delighted with the relationship that has been developed between the two companies. He commented: ‘It’s a marriage made in heaven. Brett are our go-to company for landfill and recycling in the whole London area. 

‘Having worked closely with Steve Hillier from Brett Aggregates for years and with Gary Langton since 2015, I feel we really understand each other’s businesses and how we can work together for the benefit of both companies. The relationship helps us when tendering for future business too, as we know we can count on good tipping rates, quality materials and excellent service from Brett.’

The Earls Court Project – led by developers Capital and Countries (Capco) – will transform 77 acres spanning the boundaries of the boroughs of Hammersmith and Fulham, and Kensington and Chelsea. The development will create 8,000 new homes, 10,000 new jobs, a new high street, a five-acre park and a host of community facilities, including a new cultural venue, sports and leisure venues, a primary school and an integrated health hub.