Iconic chimneys at Battersea Power Station rebuilt using original methods

Battersea Power Station’s four iconic chimneys rebuilt using original construction technique.

The completion of the Battersea Power Station chimney rebuild has been completed, using the same construction technique as when they first appeared in London’s skyline.

The final pour of concrete into the North West chimney marked the completion of the rebuild, from the first pour on May 14 2015. It took 25,000 wheelbarrow loads of concrete, which was hand-poured into the chimneys that each stand 51 metres tall.

Rather than use a hose to pour the concrete, it was decided to replicate the original construction methods and 680 tonnes of concrete was lifted in a hoist to the top of the chimney, transferred into wheelbarrows and then hand poured into the structures.

The “Jump Form” shuttering method results in the rings that can be seen around the new chimneys, and could be seen around the old. The method involves the use of steel and timber, using metal rings that are filled with concrete, moved up and filled again.

Overall, the hoist has travelled the equivalent of 21 miles, lifting the concrete to the workers waiting on boards high above the ground.

Rob Tincknell, CEO of Battersea Power Station Development Company, said: “Battersea Power Station’s chimneys have been the backdrop for films, music videos and album covers and really are world famous. On behalf of our shareholders, I would like to say it has been an honour to restore this iconic symbol to the London skyline so that it can be enjoyed by generations to come.”

Cllr Ravi Govindia, Leader of Wandsworth Council, said: “These giant chimneys are recognised the world over and as the local planning authority we have a profound duty of care to make sure the rebuilding process is a success. The site’s owners have understood their significance from day one and have gone to great lengths to restore them to their former glory. And delivered on their promises.”

Emily Gee, London Planning Director at Historic England, said: “Historic England welcomes this final stage of the rebuilding of the chimneys, ensuring that the Power Station will retain its landmark status along this evolving part of London’s skyline.”

Two of the original chimneys were built in the 1930s and the second pair in the 1950s. They were demolished after being deemed unsafe because they were crumbling after so many years.

The construction of the new chimneys won a prestigious award from the London Civil Engineering Award at a ceremony last month.

The north-east and south-west chimneys will still be used as chimneys  for a new energy centre which will provide heating and cooling to the development by releasing water vapour from their flues.

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