Access improvements for the 2022 Commonwealth Games
Being a proud Midlands business ourselves, we were particularly excited when Birmingham was announced as the new host city for the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
The Commonwealth Games are the third largest multisport event on the planet, and for the Midlands to be showcased in front of the world’s media, with all the associated positive PR and expected boost for local businesses – this was indeed fantastic news for the area.
The famous Alexander Stadium would play host to many of the events. However it would need some enhancements and refurbishments first, and the local infrastructure and transport provision in the surrounding areas would need improvements too.
The Eccles team were able to source a fast, competitive solution
We were approached to advise on appropriate drainage solutions, and having discussed the project with the client it quickly became clear that, as defined in the early specification phase, ‘connectivity’ was the key to this job being successful.
With thousands upon thousands of visitors expected, a large volume and variety of traffic would be utilising the local infrastructure during the Games – including bikes, cars, buses, lorries and more – and so the need for connected roadway and pathway networks to have high quality, reliable drainage with a safe, smart install, was paramount.
We collaborated with the chosen builder’s merchant to understand the exact needs of the client, and at specification level the desired product would need to be installed as a (Group 4) D400 application; 3rd party certified for use in heavy trafficked areas and anti-slip for pedestrian safety, along with a large, clear opening for easy access.
There was also a tight delivery date specified, and so the ability to supply and manage the associated delivery and installation logistics was also crucial.
‘Connectivity of infrastructure’ became the key to this brief
We recommended our popular DU139 access cover, from the Eccles D400 range.
Made from high strength ductile iron, with a three- point suspension and certified by the BSI to meet the performance requirements of EN124:2015, our high quality product was the perfect choice to fulfil all the requirements of this important project.
With a clear opening measuring 1000mm x 1000mm and featuring our registered SmartGrip TechnologyTM anti-slip tread pattern, the DU139 looks smart but is also functional and reliable too.
Just as important, we were able to fulfil all of the required units (34 in total) on time and within budget, even though the lead time that was specified was short. That’s because Eccles always maintains good stock levels of all its main product lines, ready to go.
All in all, the client was very pleased with the competitiveness of our quote, the value we added via our experienced consultation team, the speed we were able to mobilise stock, and the professionalism to successfully meet all required standards.
With the stadium and surrounding infrastructure now ready for action, all that’s left is for us to have a fantastic event and bring home the gold medals – good luck team!
