Robert Bruce School Demolition and Site Clearance – 28‑week programme
SCOPE:Full demolition and site clearance – 28‑week programme
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C. Jackson & Sons were appointed to deliver the complete demolition of the former Robert Bruce Middle School, a 1960s reinforced concrete structure comprising classrooms, halls, gym, offices, and basement plant areas. The site also included single‑storey buildings and a caretaker’s house, all of which had fallen into disrepair after years of dereliction and vandalism.
Complex Site Challenges
The project demanded meticulous planning due to its sensitive location:
- Proximity risks: The new Rivertree Free School and electrical substation were situated within just two metres of the existing three‑storey structure.
- Residential surroundings: The East, West, and South boundaries were bordered by housing, requiring careful control of noise, dust, and vibration.
- Ecological considerations: Bats, slow worms, and foxes were known to inhabit the site, meaning all enabling works were carried out under the strict supervision of licensed ecologists.
Safe Asbestos Removal
Asbestos was widespread throughout the buildings, including pipe insulation, floor coverings, adhesives, and insulation board ceilings. Our sister company, Jackson Environmental, deployed a 10‑man team to safely remove approximately 60 tonnes of asbestos materials over an eight‑week period. Works were sequenced alongside soft stripping to maintain programme compliance.
Precision Demolition
- Protective measures: Scaffold crash decks and Monarflex sheeting were erected to safeguard neighbouring occupied areas.
- Specialist plant: A 50‑tonne high‑reach excavator, supported by smaller machines from our in‑house fleet, was used to dismantle the reinforced concrete frame.
- Material processing: Masonry and concrete arisings (approx. 9,000m³) were crushed on site to 6F2 grading and supplied to local construction projects.
In total approximately 500 tonnes of plasterboard, timber, masonry, concrete and scrap metal arising were recycled with just 220 tonnes of demolition & asbestos waste sent to landfill.
The contract was completed within the 16 week programme.
Sustainability in Action
Our commitment to environmental responsibility was evident throughout:
- Resource recovery: 500 tonnes of scrap metal, timber, plasterboard, and plastics were recycled.
- Minimal landfill: Only 220 tonnes of demolition and asbestos waste were sent to landfill.
- Final landscaping: The site was finished with 2,000m³ of soil left over from the construction of the new school, ensuring a clean and practical handover.
Delivered with Confidence
The contract was completed within the 28‑week programme, showcasing our ability to manage complex demolition projects in sensitive environments. By combining technical expertise, ecological care, and sustainable practices, C. Jackson & Sons successfully transformed a derelict site into a safe, cleared space ready for future development.
Photo credits: Paul Griffiths