Whitechapel Station, London

Industry

Rail

Expertises

Working at Height

Safety Circle steps used in this project

Installation Solutions

The Building

Whitechapel station was originally opened 140 years ago and step-free access is not currently available, with all access via stairs. Once the work is complete in late 2018, new lifts from street level to all train platforms will make the station fully accessible for customers wanting to use Crossrail, Tube or London Overground services. The ticket hall will also be refurbished and expanded with wider pathways and more ticket gates, giving customers a better, less crowded experience.

The Requirements

The project required the provision of rooftop aluminium levelled and stepped walkways to enable safe access to glazing and green roof areas. In addition, a key aspect of the brief was to design and install an architectural stainless-steel wire infill balustrade that would provide collective protection, while also meeting the architect’s aesthetic vision for the development. All installations needed to comply with Crossrail’s stringent technical specifications.

The Solutions

Given that the project utilised Kalzip roofing systems, we implemented an aluminium Kalform walkway, working closely with Kalzip to adapt the system discreetly. This solution allowed the walkways to be raised above the green roof level, ensuring minimal disruption to the landscaped aesthetic while providing safe, level, and stepped access routes where needed.

The architectural stainless-steel wire infill balustrade was a bespoke, project-specific design created by our in-house design team. The design process was highly complex, taking into account numerous site-specific challenges and the intricate geometry of multiple compound angles. Our in-house expertise ensured that the balustrade met the rigorous standards set by Crossrail while delivering a visually pleasing and practical safety solution that complemented the overall architectural intent.

Applied Solutions

Walkway Systems

Guardrails, Balustrades & Barriers

Bespoke Solutions

The Outcome

Our tailored access solution for Whitechapel Station delivered outstanding results, combining technical excellence with architectural sensitivity. The aluminium walkways and bespoke stainless-steel balustrades met Crossrail’s demanding specifications while enhancing the visual impact of the newly regenerated station.

By collaborating closely with Kalzip and leveraging our in-house design expertise, we provided a durable, compliant, and architecturally sympathetic system that ensures safe rooftop access without compromising the building’s clean, modern design. A showcase of our ability to meet complex challenges on high-profile infrastructure projects.