Location: Northern Ireland
Upper Falls Wastewater Treatment Works comprises a variety of concrete structures originally constructed for treatment processes and subsequently considered for repurposing as network storage. McFarland Consulting Ltd were appointed to work closely with the Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) team to assess structural condition and future risks associated with this change in use.
MCL undertook a programme of concrete inspection and testing across multiple structures within the site, supported by targeted structural analysis to assess the feasibility and implications of proposed modifications. These included the potential removal of internal elements such as baffle walls and partitions, which required a detailed understanding of structural form and load paths.
In the absence of reliable as-built records for many of the structures, MCL carried out a combination of non-destructive testing and limited opening-up works to determine reinforcement arrangements and structural details. This information was critical in informing the subsequent analysis and ensuring that proposed modifications could be undertaken safely.
The investigations and analysis provided the Client team with confidence in the feasibility of repurposing the assets and a clear understanding of associated risks. This enabled informed decision-making and supported the efficient redevelopment of the treatment works while maximising the value of the existing infrastructure.