Formwork and scaffolding specialist PERI UK marked the first UK deployment of its innovative PERI UP Cladding on the Old Cock Footbridge, a complex demolition and reconstruction project located over the A21 road between Sevenoaks and Tonbridge, delivered for National Highways.
The new, flexible enclosure system was used by Jackson Civil Engineering to create a fully sealed containment area around two old bridge piers that were simultaneously undergoing hydrodemolition.
Hydrodemolition, which uses high-pressure water jets to blast away old concrete, can create significant safety risks. Hence, the PERI UP Cladding provided a robust barrier, protecting site workers, the nearby public, and traffic on the major A-road below from high-velocity water and flying debris.
Award-winning innovation
PERI UP Cladding, which was named Product of the Year at the 2024 NASC (National Access & Scaffolding Confederation) Awards, introduces several key innovations that set a new standard for protective enclosures. Chief among these is a focus on operative safety; the lightweight panels feature an integrated handrail for easy one-person handling and are installed from a secured position within the scaffold, eliminating the risk of working at an exposed edge.
Unlike traditional sheeting, individual panels can be opened or removed to create localised access without dismantling the surrounding structure, significantly speeding up work processes. Furthermore, the durable, translucent panels effectively contain dust and construction noise while allowing natural daylight into the work area, creating a brighter and more productive environment.
The complete scaffolding toolkit
The new cladding joins the PERI UP range, a modular scaffolding system trusted by contractors since the 1990s. Continuously developed, the line has expanded to offer a complete toolkit for temporary access, shoring, and support across a wide range of construction and civil engineering projects. A core principle of the PERI UP system is a focus on efficiency and user-friendliness, incorporating features such as lightweight components to simplify handling and accelerate assembly.
From demolition to reconstruction
“For a job such as the Old Cock Footbridge, the PERI UP Cladding gave us the robust containment we needed to mitigate the risk of debris dispersal, especially as we were working next to a live road,” said Robert Booth, project manager at Jackson Civil Engineering. “We received fantastic feedback from our site team, particularly regarding the translucent panels. Working in a bright, naturally lit environment has been a huge plus for both safety and efficiency.”
PERI UK’s involvement on the Old Cock Footbridge project extended beyond the demolition phase to its subsequent reconstruction. While the hydrodemolition phase was underway, the company’s fabrication department started working on the bespoke timber formwork to cast the new piers. A custom designed solution was required due to the piers’ unique shape as well as the need for a high-quality cosmetic finish with minimal visible tie-holes.
“This project highlighted PERI UK's comprehensive capabilities,” said Patrick Connachan, senior sales engineer for infrastructure at PERI UK. “We not only provided a cutting-edge containment solution for the demolition but simultaneously fabricated bespoke formwork for the pier's reconstruction, demonstrating our commitment to being a true one-stop solution for our clients from start to finish."
