Darley Street Market

Job Location:

Client:

KIER Construction

Programme:

TBC

Services:

Pre-construction, Sub-structure, Superstructure, External Works

Transforming Bradford: Darley Street Market Project

GRK Civils is delighted to have played an integral role in delivering the Darley Street Market project in the heart of Bradford. This landmark development, spearheaded by Kier and Bradford Metropolitan District Council, transforms a historic retail space into a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and culture. Featuring state-of-the-art facilities and the seamless integration of public spaces, Darley Street Market promises to reinvigorate the local community, bringing together innovation, sustainability, and quality craftsmanship.

Expertise in action

Our team delivered a comprehensive package of groundwork and formwork services across this challenging site. Key elements of our scope included:

Drainage Solutions: Installation of new FW and SW drainage systems, alongside a stormwater attenuation tank and a rainwater harvesting tank.
Foundation and Structural Works: Construction of reinforced concrete (RC) pad and piled foundations to support the new steel frame and lift cores.
Structural Innovations:

-2 in-situ RC lift cores constructed using Peri Jump formwork across six lifts.
-RC retaining walls and curved planter walls integrated into the public realm podium slab.
-Construction of RC columns supporting the podium slab, utilising Hunnebeck Topec panels.
-Installation of concrete toppings to RC precast planks and ground-bearing slabs.

Waterproofing: Application of Sika waterproofing systems across walls and slabs to ensure long-term durability.

Sub-structure

RC pad and piled foundations, retaining walls, drainage systems (FW, SW, attenuation tanks, rainwater harvesting), waterproofing and basement structural works.

Sub-structure

RC pad and piled foundations, retaining walls, drainage systems (FW, SW, attenuation tanks, rainwater harvesting), waterproofing and basement structural works.

Superstructure

RC lift cores (Peri Jump formwork), RC columns, precast planks with concrete toppings.

Superstructure

RC lift cores (Peri Jump formwork), RC columns, precast planks with concrete toppings.

Overcoming Unique Challenges

This project was characterised by its technical complexities and site constraints, which the GRK Civils team tackled with precision and professionalism:

Live Service Challenges: At Piccadilly Street, GRK Civils designed and implemented a solution to support live services in the road while excavating for the retaining wall and core construction. This included back-blinding the area with concrete to create a safe working environment.

Tight Urban Site: With buildings flanking the site to the north and south and roads on the east and west, space for construction activities was extremely limited. GRK Civils utilised precise logistical planning and innovative techniques to manage the movement of materials and plant within these constraints. This required innovative logistical solutions and meticulous planning to manage plant and operatives effectively.

Basement Complications: Working within an existing basement structure presented unforeseen challenges, such as the need to rebuild or strengthen existing walls. One-sided shutters were employed to cast retaining walls safely and efficiently, showcasing GRK’s problem-solving capabilities. Careful coordination with the design team and adaptability were essential to keep the project on track.

Lift Core Construction: The in-situ lift cores required intricate reinforcement detailing, with each floor incorporating steel end plates that demanded meticulous alignment and casting. Despite their compact size, the cores were densely packed with reinforcement, underscoring GRK’s expertise in delivering high-specification works.

External Works

Public realm podium slab, planter walls, paving.

Pre-construction

Site logistics and planning for a constrained site.

External Works

Public realm podium slab, planter walls, paving.

Pre-construction

Site logistics and planning for a constrained site.

Project Specific Highlight

A standout feature of this project is the creation of the public realm podium slab, a structural marvel that integrates seamlessly with the market’s vibrant design. This space, supported by RC columns and featuring curved planter walls, serves as a community focal point, hosting cultural and social events.

Additionally, GRK’s proactive design input was recognised by Kier, with Grant Macdonald, our Senior Engineer receiving an award for his exceptional contributions.

Conclusion

The Darley Street Market project exemplifies GRK Civils’ ability to deliver complex urban developments under challenging conditions. By collaborating closely with Kier and stakeholders, our team helped transform a constrained site into a thriving community asset, contributing expertise, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence.

At GRK Civils, we pride ourselves on going beyond groundworks to create meaningful spaces that leave a lasting impact. Darley Street Market stands as a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship and community-focused development.