Design Structure - Weir Mill Wadhurst
Cantilevered & Truss-Out Scaffold Solution for Constrained Urban Building
Tiger Scaffolding Ltd was appointed to design, supply and erect a complex scaffold structure to provide safe access for refurbishment works to a historic building positioned directly over an active watercourse and mill race.
The project presented a number of unique challenges due to restricted access, flowing water below, sensitive historic fabric and the requirement to maintain public and environmental safety throughout the works.
Project: Specialist access scaffolding over live watercourse
Sector: Heritage
Location: Weir Mill, Wadhurst
Client: Private Client
Services Provided: Design, Supply & Installation of Temporary Access Scaffolding
The Challenge
The scaffold was required to span over a live water channel, with limited opportunities for traditional ground-bearing foundations. Additional challenges included:
• Working above flowing water and uneven stone structures
• Restricted access within a narrow corridor between masonry walls
• Protection of operatives and the public below
• Maintaining the integrity of historic features
• Limited tie locations and complex load paths
All works had to be completed while ensuring compliance with current HSE guidance, TG20, and bespoke engineering requirements.
Our Solution
Tiger Scaffolding delivered a bespoke, engineered scaffold solution tailored specifically to the constraints of the site.
Key elements of the solution included:
• Bridged and suspended scaffold sections spanning the watercourse
• Beam arrangements to distribute loads safely where traditional standards were not viable
• Fully boarded working platforms with double guardrails and toe boards
• Debris netting to safeguard the watercourse and surrounding areas
• Carefully positioned ties and supplementary bracing to maintain stability without impacting the historic structure
• Safe access routes for operatives within confined spaces
All designs were supported by engineering calculations and method statements prior to installation.
Our outcome
The completed scaffold provided:
Safe, uninterrupted access to all required areas
A stable and compliant working environment for follow-on trades
Minimal disruption to the property and surroundings
A visually neat and professional scaffold installation
The project was delivered safely, on programme, and to the client’s satisfaction.
Safety & Compliance
Safety was paramount throughout the project. Tiger Scaffolding implemented:
• Site-specific risk assessments and method statements (RAMS)
• Full compliance with NASC guidance and TG20
• Regular formal scaffold inspections
• Close coordination with the principal contractor and site management
• Environmental considerations to protect the watercourse below
Our operatives worked to strict permit controls and maintained excellent housekeeping standards at all times.
The Result
The scaffold was delivered safely, on programme and without incident. The completed structure provided secure, uninterrupted access for follow-on trades while protecting both the historic building and the surrounding environment.
The client praised Tiger Scaffolding for our technical expertise, attention to detail and ability to deliver a complex solution in a highly constrained location.
Why Tiger Scaffolding?
This project highlights Tiger Scaffolding’s ability to:
• Deliver complex, engineered scaffold solutions
• Work confidently in restricted, high-risk and sensitive environments
• Support heritage and infrastructure projects
• Maintain the highest standards of safety, compliance and workmanship
Project Highlights
✔ Bespoke scaffold design
✔ Complex bridged beam sections
✔ Multiple working levels
✔ Fully compliant and safety-led delivery
✔ London & South East project