Client: Thames Water / Volkerfitzpatrick
Works commenced: June 2025
Aquaforce Concrete Services was commissioned to carry out hydro demolition works around the lower half of a live 30” trunk main at the HS2 site on Old Oak Common Lane. The works were undertaken within a trial hole excavation, presenting significant challenges due to the confined space, busy main road location, and complex site conditions.
To ensure safety and efficiency, all Aquaforce plant, vehicles, and equipment were positioned within a carefully planned traffic management system set up on the busy main road. The works were completed under a single lane closure, allowing the hydro demolition works to proceed safely while maintaining traffic flow and minimising disruption.
Despite these constraints, our team successfully removed the defective concrete using high-pressure water jets working at 1150 bar. The removal was meticulously planned to ensure full support of the trunk main at all times, safeguarding the integrity of this critical asset, allowing it to remain live throughout the operation.
Effective communication with site engineers was key to coordinating the hydrodemolition works alongside the watermain support activities. By combining careful planning, technical expertise, and close collaboration with the project team, Aquaforce delivered the works safely, efficiently, and on schedule, meeting the highest standards of quality, safety, and environmental compliance.
Key benefits delivered:
- Hydro demolition completed safely in a confined excavation under a single lane closure.
- All plant, vehicles, and equipment safely integrated into traffic management.
- Meticulous planning to ensure full support of the trunk main throughout works.
- Close coordination with site engineers for safe, efficient delivery.
- Minimal disruption to road traffic and surrounding infrastructure.
- Works delivered safely, on time, and in compliance with all environmental and safety regulations.
- The main remained live throughout the works minimising disruption to Thames Water.