International Convention Centre, Wales
Client: Massey Cladding
Location: Caerleon, Wales
Project Start: 2018 – 2019
Project Overview
Apollo Cradles were commissioned to provide external access by use of mast climbers for cladding a new build. The building is part of the Celtic Manor resort and will be the largest Convention Centre in Wales. The building had various facades of which there were at varying angles of 70 & 80 degrees.
Collaborative Planning
In partnership with Massey Cladding, Apollo co-developed a tailored execution programme to install mast climbers & monorails that would:
- Remove the need for construction hoists to distribute material & personnel.
- Increase productivity by use of mast climbers over traditional scaffold / boom lifts.
- Minimise structural ties to the building.
This seamless coordination reflected Apollo’s ethical & problem-solving leadership and low-impact delivery ethos to achieve the high standard the client required on this project.
Engineering Innovation
Whilst most elevations were standard two particular elevations were angled at 70 & 80 degrees. The cladding was also a secret fix type system with narrow expansion joints.
Faced with these challenges Apollo set to work with concept drawings, critical testing and full engineering calculations.
As a result, Apollo were able to offer a bespoke mast climber solution for the angled facades with special application structural ties.
The alternative was to use traditional scaffold / small boom lifts which would have been detrimental to the project in terms of
- Cost
- Install & removal times / project programme
- Ties to the structure
Outcomes
- 📅 On-schedule delivery with zero operational disruptions.
- 🔍 Full compliance with LOLER 9.2(B) and thorough examination standards.
- 👍 Client recognition for professionalism and adaptability.
- 🛡️ Continuous safety assurance across every work phase.
