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Scaffolding contractor, Xervon Palmers, is nearing completion on a multi-million, 18 month contract providing bespoke scaffolding and access services for Heathrow Airport’s state-of-the-art new Terminal 2 – to be called ‘The Queen’s Terminal.’

The company’s work on the T2B site at Heathrow – for Balfour Beatty – began in January 2012. At the project’s peak, they provided a significant number of skilled scaffolding operatives and scaffolding equipment for the contract on the secure site which is one of the largest airports in Europe.

The contract has centred around providing scaffolding services and access solutions for the construction of the new building in three phases, making way for the construction of a new, 600 m long and 35 m wide, split-level pier and the proposed Heathrow East Terminal (HET).

Some of the work has been involved in creating scaffolding underground, to assist in the construction of connecting tunnels for rail services under the terminal building.

The access has been provided using a mix of traditional tube and fitting and modern Cuplok and Layher system scaffolding including the creation of large birdcage scaffolds in the atriums and escalator constructions.

Working on such a busy, sensitive site has thrown up unique scaffolding and access challenges, including not interrupting sight lines for the Air Traffic Control tower or disturbing RADAR signals while working at height. In addition, clearance had to be gained to provide access through the advanced security systems and organising BAA passes for all of the operatives (a six month process).

All site deliveries have been made, using specific pre-set access and egress routes at set times, gaining permit approvals for certain access equipment and clearance of night / weekend / overtime working hours.

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