Meridian Steps - Stratford Station
Innovative temporary fire escape installation at Stratford Station, enabling future development while maintaining essential emergency evacuation routes.
Scope of Works
The multi-phase construction programme included:
Enabling Works:
Site establishment and subway cover slab exposure
Installation of PFC hangers to support the structure
Casting of in-situ reinforced concrete beams
Construction of the canopy steel frame and block work
Main Installation:
Precision cutting and removal of the existing cover slab
Installation of a Haki modular staircase system
Fitting of double emergency fire exit doors
Application of cladding with integrated guttering and downpipes
Footpath construction and hoarding installation
Services Integration:
Relocation and installation of the existing dry riser
Application of new line markings
Making good exposed walls and ceilings
Installation of CCTV systems and fire alarm points
Provision of support steel columns and beams
Modification of existing services
Installation of containment systems, luminaires and emergency lighting
Distribution board and cable installations
Location:
July 2024 - April 2025
Project Value:
£118,657.00
Duration:
July 2024 - April 2025
Client:
RG Group
Contract:
The Challenge:
Creating a new emergency escape route through an existing below-ground structure presented significant technical challenges. The works needed to be delivered while maintaining full station operations, with particular attention to ensuring continuous emergency evacuation capabilities throughout. The location within a busy transport hub added complexity to material deliveries and work scheduling.
Our Approach:
Working closely with our design partners at Crayside Consulting, we developed comprehensive Civil & Structural, Electrical and SISS design solutions. Our collaborative approach encompassed detailed assessment of the existing earth-retaining structural mechanisms, design of a roof ‘cut-out’ for the new staircase, creation of an ‘end-wall’ to block the existing escape route, and development of a complete entrance/canopy structure.
Overcoming Challenges:
The project required working in a live station environment while ensuring emergency evacuation routes remained operational throughout. Careful phasing was essential to maintain safety standards at all times. The construction of a new opening through an existing structure while maintaining its structural integrity demanded precise engineering calculations and execution.
Key Achievements:
By creating a temporary Network Rail safe access route and maintaining continuous station operations throughout, we demonstrated our ability to deliver complex infrastructure modifications in live transport environments. The successful completion of this project enabled the subsequent development of significant student accommodation above the station, showcasing our role in supporting urban regeneration while enhancing railway infrastructure.