We were approached by the managing agent about a commercial shop in Headingley. The unit had a basement below the shop floor with a void that extended into the footpath that we believe formed part of the original coal store / outhouse.

The concrete slab that was cast above the coal store on the footpath was at risk of collapse and needed making safe. the existing slab was letting surface water into the basement that was causing damp issues for the tenants stock.

After working with the managing agent and a structural engineer we collectively agreed the best solution would be to infill this void in the pavement. Due to loadings and added pressure against the front facade in the basement the structural engineer specified a independent wall to built behind it.

This proposal provided a full proof maintenance free solution and should also result in minimising the damp ingress. A labour intensive job that took a fair bit of planning at the outset but both tenant and managing agent happy with the end result.

Overview of Works

Internally

• Carefully remove and re position electrics and plumbing as necessary to facilitate work.
• Remove and dispose of existing door + window frame and block up existing openings with a 215mm wall in 7N/mm² blockwork wall.
• Creation of new independent wall across the front of the shop with 215mm blockwork to create division to neighbouring coal store.

Externally

• Saw cut and break out the existing slab.
• Lap damp proof membrane up against the face of the building to deflect moisture from the basement.
• Build new blockwork wall in readiness to retain hardcore. 215mm thick.
• Supply and install mot type 1 stone compacted at regular 200mm intervals into coal store.
• Supply and install new 150mm concrete slab to create horizontal restraint for material mass.

27 North Ln, Headingley, Leeds LS6 3HW