
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Client: RAF
Location: Ashton Under Lyne
STABILISING THE AIR CADET CORPS TRAINING UNIT
The Victorian building, serving as a vital Air Cadet Corps training unit, required extensive structural stabilisation to ensure its safety, functionality, and longevity. Repairs focused on stabilising the Large Pediment, Small Pediment, and Rear Elevation, prioritising safety during height work and while removing and supporting large structural elements.
SAFETY-DRIVEN REPAIRS OVERVIEW
1. Structural Scaffolding for Safety at Height:
A robust structural scaffold was erected, extending above the ridge line to enable safe access to critical areas.
Lifting points were integrated into the scaffolding system to support large building elements, ensuring controlled removal and replacement.
Work areas were secured to prevent debris from falling, with regular safety inspections conducted to protect personnel and maintain stability during repairs.
2. Front Elevation Timber Reinforcement:
Timber Perlins: Severely compromised timber perlins were temporarily supported using structural steel props to safely transfer loads.
Steel Flitch Plates: Reinforced timber with steel flitch plates, installed with precise alignment and high-strength bolts to ensure long-term stability.
Wood preservative was applied to exposed sections to prevent future decay and preserve structural integrity.
3. Small Pediment Repairs:
Extended scaffolding provided access to the roof void for internal and external repairs.
Timber ridge beams were reinforced with 20mm threaded rods to increase load-bearing capacity.
Local slate repairs and comprehensive brickwork repointing with helical rods were carried out to strengthen masonry.
4. Rear Elevation Structural Restoration:
Large sections of damaged brickwork were carefully removed, with structural scaffold providing support throughout the process.
Helical rods, installed with resin, reinforced weakened areas to improve stability.
Sandstone lintels were removed, repaired, and re-bedded.
Gutters and flashings were repaired and treated with Sika Rooftop Pro, while waterproofing was applied to the entire rear elevation.

SAFETY EMPHASIS
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All personnel were trained in height safety protocols, with harnesses and fall protection measures rigorously implemented.
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Scaffolding was regularly inspected to ensure stability under varying load conditions, particularly when removing or repositioning large building elements.
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Controlled removal methods and designated disposal zones minimised risks to workers and the public.
OUTCOME
The stabilisation works reinforced the building’s structural integrity, ensuring it remains a safe and functional training hub for the Air Cadet Corps. Emphasising safety throughout, the repairs not only stabilised key elevations but also extended the building’s lifespan, allowing it to continue serving as a critical training facility.
