Victoria Quarter Restoration
Overview
The Victoria Quarter Leeds is a prestigious shopping arcade recognized as a Grade 2 Listed Building, celebrated for its unique architectural features and high-end retail spaces. Over the years, the glazing in the roof had deteriorated, raising concerns about water ingress. Due to the building's listed status, any restoration work must adhere to strict conservation guidelines.
Hammerson, the property management team, along with the Council Planning Department, appointed PRSG to undertake the glazing restoration project for the glazed atriums. PRSG proposed a solution that involved replacing the old glass with polycarbonate, offering a balance between maintaining structural integrity and preserving the historic character of the building.
Scope of Work
PRSG was responsible for the comprehensive glazing restoration project of a Grade 2 Listed Building, which included the following key tasks:
Removal of Existing Glass and Putty: All the existing glass panels and putty were carefully removed, ensuring that the surrounding structure was not damaged during the process.
Preparation and Restoration of Steel Framework: The existing supporting steel framework was thoroughly rubbed down, cleaned, and repainted using Hammerite paint to protect against corrosion and extend its lifespan.
Installation of Polycarbonate Panels: PRSG manufactured and installed specialized capping pieces to securely hold the new wired polycarbonate panels in place, ensuring a weather-tight seal and enhancing the glazed rooflights' durability for the Victoria Quarter Leeds.
Bespoke Ladder System for Safe Access: Given the atrium’s complex profile, safe access was a critical concern. PRSG designed and installed a bespoke ladder system, which was left on site to facilitate future maintenance and service work.
Retailer Considerations and Noise Containment: Throughout the project, the shopping centre beneath continued to trade. PRSG took extensive measures to minimize disruption. Noise levels were carefully managed, allowing the retailer to continue operating with minimal impact.
Project Management and Execution
PRSG demonstrated meticulous planning and execution throughout the glazing restoration project in the Victoria Quarter Leeds:
Conservation Compliance: All work was carried out in accordance with the Grade 2 Listed Building requirements, ensuring that the restoration not only addressed the structural issues but also preserved the historic character of the Victoria Quarter.
Safety Measures: The unique challenges posed by the building’s profile required innovative safety solutions. PRSG's bespoke ladder system ensured that all work was carried out safely and efficiently, with zero incidents reported during the project.
Minimizing Disruption: Understanding the importance of maintaining normal business operations for the retailer, PRSG coordinated closely with the shop management to schedule noisy work outside peak trading hours and took steps to protect the interior from dust and debris.
Logistics and Scheduling: The project was completed ahead of the initial schedule. This was achieved through careful planning, efficient execution, and effective communication with all stakeholders.
Challenges and Solutions
Maintaining Structural Integrity While Complying with Conservation Regulations: The switch from glass to polycarbonate in the glazing restoration project for the Grade 2 Listed Building required careful consideration to ensure the material's suitability. PRSG collaborated closely with the Council Planning Department and Hammerson’s management team to develop a solution that adhered to all regulatory requirements.
Safe Access and Egress: The complex structure of the Victoria Quarter Leeds posed significant challenges for safe access. PRSG’s design and installation of a bespoke ladder system provided a long-term solution for both the restoration project and future maintenance needs.
Minimizing Impact on Retail Operations: The ongoing trading of the retailers beneath the glazing added a layer of complexity to the project. PRSG’s proactive approach to noise management, dust containment, and physical protection ensured minimal disruption to business operations.
Outcomes
Improved Structural Integrity: In our glazing restoration project for the Grade 2 Listed Building at Victoria Quarter Leeds, the replacement of glass with polycarbonate panels and the restoration of the steel framework significantly enhanced the structural integrity and eliminated issues of water ingress.
Enhanced Safety: The bespoke safety systems installed by PRSG ensured that all restoration work was conducted without incident, and these systems will continue to support safe maintenance activities in the future.
Preservation of Historical Aesthetics: This project successfully met all conservation requirements, preserving the historic character of the Victoria Quarter while modernizing the roof light’s materials for improved performance.
Successful Project Delivery: Completed one week ahead of schedule, the project had no reported incidents and caused minimal disruption to the retailer’s operations, demonstrating PRSG’s capability in managing complex restoration projects in sensitive environments.
Conclusion
The glazing restoration project at the Victoria Quarter Leeds was a complex undertaking that necessitated a careful balance between maintaining the historic integrity of a Grade 2 Listed Building and addressing modern structural challenges. PRSG’s innovative solutions, meticulous planning, and commitment to safety ensured the successful completion of the project ahead of schedule, with zero incidents and minimal disruption to ongoing retail operations. This project highlights PRSG’s expertise in delivering high-quality restoration work within challenging environments.