Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital

Demolition

This project involved the largest concrete cancer structure to be demolished to date within the United Kingdom: namely The Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford).

The project involved the demolition of the original hospital including central tower block building from within the new live hospital campus. H Smith (Engineers) Limited, as principal contractors, were responsible for extensive site security and the services isolation work.

The demolition was carried out over a period of 40 weeks, using a number of 360° machines up to 45t, fitted with modern concrete crackers and pulverisers. All the ASR (“concrete cancer”) contaminated concrete had to be processed separately for controlled disposal.

Asbestos

H Smith (Engineers) Ltd removed an extensive amount of asbestos from site. This included much lagging and extensive under floor asbestos.

Due to the sensitivity of live hospital including adjacent cardiac surgical wards, H Smith (Engineers) Ltd developed a continuous monitoring system for noise, vibration and dust. This monitoring was undertaken by our in-house engineering team. At all times the nuisance levels were kept within the pre-set limits and no complaints were received.

Landscaping / Car Park

After the demolition was completed H Smith (Engineers) Ltd, were commissioned to undertake the construction of a new staff car park equipped with over 340 spaces. This included extensive landscaping and groundwork on the site. Additional work included the construction of the new road surfaces using stone tarmac and the supply and installation of signs together with associated lighting and street furniture. Overall the contract lasted 54 weeks and was completed to the complete satisfaction of the client and within budget.