Fire-rated hoarding panels for the London Underground

Hoardings going underground

When the main contractor for Network Rail called on Isoclad’s assistance in the renovation of one of the Tube’s most iconic stations, Technical Sales Manager, Andy Palmer, knew we were going to be involved in something very special.

The main focus of this project, aside from the end deliverables, was to keep the public moving around the station, during the works, in a safe and efficient manner with the very least amount of disruption as possible.

Waterloo Station, London Underground

4,500m²

Firestop

Project considerations during the major regeneration of Waterloo Station

Traditional hoardings were briefly considered for the station works but were disregarded almost immediately due to the unique properties attached to the Isoclad Modular Hoarding system such as its superior fire and acoustic ratings.

To the untrained eye, the slick and modern Isoclad hoarding panels gave tube patrons the impression of finished works at the station.

Once the works were completed behind the hoarding, one-by-one each panel was removed to reveal a range of brand-new eateries and conveniences including retail outlets, boutiques and coffee shops.

The project had its fair share of challenges

Isoclad came up against a large amount of logistical issues due to the nature of the project. Our team used their breadth of experience and wealth of knowledge to overcome such problems, delivering the project in a seamless and timely manner for the client.

This included liaising with main contractors and installers to ensure that panels were delivered on time, every time. With no on-site storage space, there was no margin for error.

All of the panels left the Isoclad facility with pre-customised apertures for windows, doors, vents and cabling cut out and indexed in sequence of installation meaning, thanks to Isoclad’s CustomClad and PanelManager service, there was no on-site waste to be removed.

The speed at which the hoardings can be installed was another major factor in the decision being made to use Isoclad’s fire-rated hoarding panels. They can be installed, taken down, and moved within a matter of hours.

The start of something beautiful…

Isoclad hoarding systems have now been specified on all future projects for CrossRail, Transport for London, Network Rail, and the London Underground. This is a great result for Isoclad, but also a smart move for the southern transport giants who have a flexible, efficient and experienced hoarding solution in their portfolio.