Complex chemical plant demolition nearing completion
Demolition work is nearing completion at a Kent agricultural chemicals company following a complex decommissioning and salvage process.
The plant on Nufarm UK's 12-acre site in Belvedere, Kent was closed last year after the Australian-owned company decided to consolidate its UK operations at its Bradford base.
Nufarm’s European operations manager Wigbold Nieuwenhuis said: “Having made the decision to progress to demolition, our primary concern throughout has been for the safety of all operatives.
“The project has also required intense planning and stringent management to minimise disruption to the numerous commercial properties bordering the site.
"Continuous effective liaison with neighbouring occupants and public services has ensured everyone has remained in the communication loop.
The works have comprised asbestos removal, decontamination, dismantling, demolition and full site clearance of the process plant equipment and buildings - 30 structures in total of concrete, brick, steel and timber construction.
The operation saw frequent simultaneous demolitions happening on site. For example, when heavy demolition of the four-storey steel frame chlorination building began the meticulous recovery of 30 high-value chemical reactors was underway elsewhere on the site.
The greatest degree of care, co-ordination and concentration was necessary from a highly specialised team to ensure the vessels were re-salvaged without damage, for installation at Nufarm UK’s Wyke plant.
The process is finishing on time and on budget.
