Christeyns Case Study – Groundworks & Civil Engineering, Bradford

Bespoke Engineering Solutions, Commercial

Christeyns – Tanker Offload Bay & Retaining Wall Groundworks

Location: Prospect Street, Bradford
Sector: Industrial / Chemical Manufacturing
Services: Groundworks, Retaining Wall Construction, Concrete Slab Works
Completion: March 2025

Project Overview

Durkan & Sons Ltd were appointed to deliver a package of enabling works at Christeyns’ chemical manufacturing facility in Bradford. The project involved preparing a constrained zone behind the processing plant to support a new tanker offload area and protect critical chemical service pipes.

Key objectives included stabilising a steep embankment, forming a reinforced base slab, and constructing a king post retaining wall using precast concrete panels.

Scope of Works

Site clearance, vegetation removal, and reduced-level excavation
Import and compaction of MOT Type 1 stone
Installation of galvanised UC152x152x23 steel king posts
Placement of precast 2m x 1.5m x 100mm concrete wall panels
Formation of a 200mm thick reinforced concrete slab tied to an existing wall
Management of lifting operations and confined access constraints

Construction Approach

The working area was narrow and adjacent to live plant services, requiring precise coordination. Foundation points were augered, and king posts were set in concrete to exact centres for precast panel fitment. Reinforcement mesh and timber formwork were used to cast the new slab in sections. All works were sequenced to minimise disruption to existing infrastructure.

Precast panel installation was completed using a mobile crane, with all lifts carried out under a standard lifting plan. A slab design was adopted to interface cleanly with the existing retaining wall.

Key Materials & Supply Partners

Precast Panels: JP Concrete Ltd (2000x1500x100mm)
Steel Posts: Galvanised UC152x152x23, 2.65m long
Concrete: C28/35 mix with A252 mesh reinforcement
Ground Preparation: MOT Type 1 and shuttering for slab formation

Project Highlights

Executed within a highly restricted and service-sensitive zone
Integrated new slab into existing structure with precision
Delivered a clean and maintainable offload bay for Christeyns’ operational needs
Finished wall provides long-term protection for twin chemical pipe banks

Outcome

The completed works provide a safe, durable base for tanker operations and long-term retention of essential pipe infrastructure. The king post system delivers structural integrity while the new slab offers accessible working space in a previously unusable area. This project showcases Durkan & Sons’ expertise in industrial groundworks, structural concrete, and specialist retaining solutions.