Bespoke Rainwater Storage Solution for Kew Gardens
Introduction
At Kew Gardens, London, Franklin Hodge faced the challenge of replacing an ageing corrugated storage tank used to supply rainwater to adjacent greenhouses. With limited access and strict time constraints, Franklin Hodge provided a customised glass-coated tank solution, completing the project on time and within budget.
Client Background
The client manages one of the world’s most renowned botanical gardens, housing rare and delicate plant species, some nurtured for over 40 years. The existing rainwater storage tank was essential for greenhouse irrigation and could not be offline for more than three weeks.
Key challenges included:
- The need for rapid tank replacement to minimise downtime.
- Restricted access for working, deliveries, and storage.
- Complications during the removal of the existing double-skinned tank.
Franklin Hodge Solution
1. Tank Removal and Site Preparation
2. New Tank Installation
- Installed a 10.24m diameter x 4.27m high glass-coated water storage tank with a flat trough deck roof.
- Delivered the new tank kit in stages from the external car park to manage the restricted access.
- Fitted the roof in stages due to limited storage space.
3. Customisation for Operational Requirements
- Cut all external connections, including the manway, on site to ensure precise orientation.
- Carried out a seal pour to address the fall levels of the existing base area.
Results
- Timely completion: The project was completed on schedule within the three-week timeframe, ensuring uninterrupted irrigation for the greenhouses.
- Efficient storage solution: The new glass-coated tank met the specific rainwater storage requirements while overcoming the constraints of the site.
- Budget adherence: Despite additional requirements, the project remained within budget.
Challenges Overcome
- Time constraints: Franklin Hodge’s efficient planning and execution allowed the tank to be replaced ahead of schedule.
- Restricted access: Deliveries and construction were adapted to the site’s limited working space.
- Complex removal: The dismantling of the insulated, double-skinned tank was completed with precision and speed.
Conclusion
Franklin Hodge’s expertise in delivering bespoke glass-coated tank solutions was critical to the success of this project. By addressing unique site challenges and time limitations, Franklin Hodge ensured the delivery of a high-quality rainwater storage solution.
The existing tank was only found to be double skin with insulation once the take down had begun.
First ring placed showing close proximity to existing greenhouses.
Clean lines at 2 rings high, held by jacks internally.
The completed tank showing the quality of workmanship exhibited by FHI site engineers.
