The façade refurbishment of the BT Tower in Swansea, the second tallest building in Wales at approximately 63 metres, has been one of our most technically demanding projects, showcasing our ability to successfully deliver complex external refurbishment works while acting as Principal Contractor on behalf of our client, CBRE and ultimately BT.
The project involves the refurbishment and protection of the building's external concrete façade, including pressure washing, preparation, concrete repairs, priming and the application of a full AC protective coating system in accordance with the SIKA specification. XP sacrificial anodes are being installed to provide long-term corrosion protection and help extend the service life of the structure.
The scope also includes rendering, pore filling, mastic replacement, the removal of redundant steel cradle rails and the replacement of critical high-security access doors, ensuring the building receives a comprehensive refurbishment. Additional works included a full hammer survey, concrete repairs, rendering, pressure washing and AC coating works to the adjacent Padley's Yard building, together with approximately 25m² of soffit concrete repairs within the occupied building.
Given the size and complexity of the building, no single access solution was suitable. The project required the coordination of mast climbers, cradles, rope access and traditional scaffolding, with several scaffold locations incorporating complex temporary works designs to safely access difficult areas of the façade. This variety of access methods has required detailed planning and close collaboration between our site team, designers and specialist contractors throughout the programme.
Throughout the 27-week programme, the team adapted to changing work fronts, adverse weather, additional client instructions and access constraints while maintaining progress and minimising disruption to the building's occupants. Careful planning was also required to manage live traffic and pedestrian interfaces through scheduled car park closures, dedicated banksmen and evening working
The successful delivery of this £1.1 million refurbishment reflects the professionalism, commitment and teamwork of everyone involved. From our site operatives delivering high-quality workmanship to our specialist supply chain partners providing safe access solutions and technical expertise, every member of the team has played an important role. Special recognition should also go to the project management team, whose planning, communication and proactive approach helped overcome the many logistical challenges encountered throughout the works.
As the project approaches completion, the transformation of this iconic Swansea landmark stands as a testament to the expertise, collaboration and commitment of the entire project team.
The scope also includes rendering, pore filling, mastic replacement, the removal of redundant steel cradle rails and the replacement of critical high-security access doors, ensuring the building receives a comprehensive refurbishment. Additional works included a full hammer survey, concrete repairs, rendering, pressure washing and AC coating works to the adjacent Padley's Yard building, together with approximately 25m² of soffit concrete repairs within the occupied building.
Given the size and complexity of the building, no single access solution was suitable. The project required the coordination of mast climbers, cradles, rope access and traditional scaffolding, with several scaffold locations incorporating complex temporary works designs to safely access difficult areas of the façade. This variety of access methods has required detailed planning and close collaboration between our site team, designers and specialist contractors throughout the programme.
Throughout the 27-week programme, the team adapted to changing work fronts, adverse weather, additional client instructions and access constraints while maintaining progress and minimising disruption to the building's occupants. Careful planning was also required to manage live traffic and pedestrian interfaces through scheduled car park closures, dedicated banksmen and evening working
The successful delivery of this £1.1 million refurbishment reflects the professionalism, commitment and teamwork of everyone involved. From our site operatives delivering high-quality workmanship to our specialist supply chain partners providing safe access solutions and technical expertise, every member of the team has played an important role. Special recognition should also go to the project management team, whose planning, communication and proactive approach helped overcome the many logistical challenges encountered throughout the works.
As the project approaches completion, the transformation of this iconic Swansea landmark stands as a testament to the expertise, collaboration and commitment of the entire project team.
BT Tower Swansea
Jack Davies
24/08/26
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