Erith Group – The Bermondsey Project – The Former Biscuit Factory

CA Drillers were engaged by Erith Contractor Ltd to provide saw-cutting and core-drilling services as part of the demolition works at the Former Biscuit Factory site. With years of experience in precision cutting and drilling, CA Drillers played a vital role in ensuring the project was executed efficiently, safely, and within the required specifications. This case study highlights the scope of work carried out by CA Drillers, emphasising the impact of their expertise on the project’s success.

The demolition of the Former Biscuit Factory involved complex cutting and drilling processes to prepare the site for redevelopment.  

One of the key aspects of the project was dowel hole drilling, which involved drilling 7,914 dowel holes at foundation level into concrete pads. This process was crucial for structural reinforcement and ensuring the integrity of future construction work.

Another critical task was track sawing, which allowed for the cutting of reinforced concrete slabs. This method was essential for creating new openings and making structural modifications in line with the demolition plan. Additionally, wire sawing was employed to reduce pile caps and pad foundations. This technique ensured controlled and efficient removal of heavy concrete sections without causing unnecessary disruption to surrounding structures.

In support of the demolition process, beam and column cutting was carried out with precision saw-cutting techniques. This facilitated the safe and effective removal of structural elements. Furthermore, high-level concrete removal was performed using powered access equipment. The process involved saw-cutting and breaking overhanging concrete nib sections at height, which required skilled execution to maintain safety and precision.

In addition, CA Drillers contributed to foundation and ground floor modifications by performing saw-cutting to accommodate new underground drainage systems. This was a critical aspect of the project, ensuring that the site’s infrastructure could be adapted for future development. Lastly, diamond drilling was carried out to create core drill holes for BWIC (Builders’ Work in Connection) service penetrations. This allowed for the seamless integration of mechanical and electrical (M&E) services into the site’s redevelopment plan.

Project Impact and Conclusion

The expertise of CA Drillers ensured that all cutting and drilling operations were executed with precision, meeting the required safety and structural standards. By utilising advanced diamond drilling and saw cutting techniques, CA Drillers contributed to an efficient and controlled demolition process. Their work not only facilitated the safe deconstruction of the Former Biscuit Factory but also played a crucial role in preparing the site for its next phase of development.

The success of this project underscores the importance of specialized contractors in large-scale demolition and redevelopment efforts. With a commitment to precision, efficiency, and safety, CA Drillers continue to be a trusted partner for complex cutting and drilling projects across the construction industry.