Chichester University Chapel

Project Details

CNM Scaffolding partnered with HLMS McConnals on a landmark project at Chichester University Chapel. The project involved extensive scaffolding to support roofing work on a historic and architecturally sensitive site. Known for its large glass facades and unique design, the Chapel required detailed scaffold planning and precision. The scope included erecting an independent scaffold system around the Chapel to provide safe access for roofing contractors. This included a perimeter scaffold with multiple lifts, including a double-boarded lift protected with polythene, an internal scaffold near the organ, and several scaffold lifts up the gable ends up to the ridge at approximately 13 metres. CNM Scaffolding ensured all structural requirements were met, providing timber toe boards, tripled handrails, and debris netting as specified. Additionally, intermediate lifts were required on all corners to allow for sequential roofing work, necessitating careful adaptation throughout the project. Scaffolding was strategically designed to avoid contact with the Chapel's glass elevations and to bridge over walkway areas, maintaining uninterrupted pedestrian access.

This project utilised our commercial scaffolding, scaffolding design & calculations and safe access scaffolding services, delivered to our full range of industry accreditations and safety standards. The project was located in Chichester, one of our key service areas across the south coast.

Project Challenges

The Chapel's location presented logistical challenges, with high foot traffic and multiple obstructions surrounding the site. The complex architecture, particularly the large glazed facades, required a carefully detailed scaffold design to avoid compromising structural elements. To address this, CNM Scaffolding engaged with McConnals early in the project's tender phase, providing preliminary costs and design outlines to ensure alignment with the Chapel's architectural needs. Throughout the project, adaptations to the scaffold were coordinated in real time with roofing contractors to allow for sequential stripping and re-roofing of sections. This required an adaptable scaffold structure that could be modified as work progressed. CNM Scaffolding's execution of the project involved intensive coordination with McConnals and other contractors to ensure that all scaffold installations met the project timeline without compromising safety or accessibility. The Chapel's roofing sections were stripped and re-roofed in phases, and CNM Scaffolding continuously adapted the intermediate lifts to support each phase of the work. This flexible approach enabled the smooth progression of roofing activities while accommodating changes and unforeseen delays.

Health & Safety

Safety was paramount on this project due to the Chapel's public location and unique architectural features. Weekly scaffold inspections were conducted, and Scafftags were implemented to ensure safety compliance for all scaffold structures. CNM Scaffolding also protected all sensitive architectural elements, including artwork on the gable ends, with timber and plywood.

Key Highlights

Conclusion

The Chichester University Chapel project stands as a testament to CNM Scaffolding's expertise in delivering complex, high-profile projects in sensitive environments. Working closely with HLMS McConnals, we provided tailored scaffolding solutions that ensured safety, efficiency, and respect for the Chapel's unique architecture. This flagship project, up for awards, exemplifies CNM Scaffolding's commitment to quality and precision in commercial scaffolding.

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