Tolworth Station Platform Restoration
Platform reconstruction eliminating undulation and ponding, delivering level surfaces with improved drainage and modern safety features.
Scope of Works
The platform restoration process followed a carefully sequenced approach:
Platform Excavation and Reinstatement:
Water barriers established clear working boundaries and edge protection
Excavators methodically removed tarmac and granular material bay by bay
MOT Type 1 material was levelled to specified depths and compacted in controlled layers
Terram geotextile membrane installed to provide stability
Drainage Improvements:
ACO drainage channels installed on precision-mixed concrete beds
Gully sumps strategically placed and connected to outlet carrier pipes
New drain runs and manholes installed to replace non-functioning original systems
All drainage runs underwent air testing and CCTV survey
Surface Finishing:
Installation of 400x400mm surface-mounted hazard yellow tactile paving
Thorough preparation of asphalt surfaces to remove contaminants
Precision application of adhesive using comb-type spreaders
Meticulous tile positioning with 3-5mm spacing between edges
Reinstatement of platform benches during off-peak hours
Application of white line markings using chlorinated rubber paint
Location:
23rd October 2024 - 10th February 2025
Project Value:
£167,519.88
Duration:
23rd October 2024 - 10th February 2025
Client:
Volker Fitzpatrick
Contract:
NEC 4 ECS (Oct 2020) Option E with Z Clauses
The Challenge:
The project presented multiple challenges: working on operational platforms with limited possession times, addressing drainage issues on an embankment requiring special safety measures, and coordinating material deliveries and plant movements through a neighbouring business yard. Existing drainage systems were found to be in worse condition than anticipated, with unmarked services discovered during excavation.
Our Approach:
Through prior agreement with Days Aggregates, we utilised their yard’s Road Rail Access Point (RRAP) for efficient access and egress of Road Rail Vehicles (RRVs) and trailers. This created a strategic material and plant laydown area adjacent to the RRAP. Our RRVs and trailers were delivered during off-peak hours, with Walker Construction supervisors providing banksman services to guide equipment to agreed locations.
Overcoming Challenges:
The project encountered several unforeseen challenges that required innovative solutions:
Delayed delivery of Terram geotextile membrane disrupted Platform 2 drainage works, highlighting the importance of buffer stock for critical materials
CAT scanning revealed unmarked plastic ducts and a deep cable (1.2m) absent from service drawings, requiring careful hand excavation
Platform 1 drainage works on an embankment required the installation of a temporary fall arrest system with harness-trained operatives
Key Achievements:
Our detailed hour-by-hour programming maintained accuracy within ±3 hours throughout the project. Real-time progress reporting via WhatsApp gave all stakeholders instant visibility of site activities. Early coordination with Days Aggregate maximised possession efficiency during critical weekend works. Through meticulous planning and execution, we delivered this complex platform restoration while maintaining essential services for passengers, providing level, well-drained platforms with improved safety features for years to come.