Project Overview
Goodluck Hope is a major riverside regeneration scheme on the historic Leamouth Peninsula, bringing 841 new homes together with commercial, educational and cultural spaces. The development, designed by TODD Architects, also includes the restoration of the Grade II‑listed Orchard Dry Dock, preserving the area’s maritime heritage while creating a vibrant new neighbourhood.
Within this ambitious masterplan, Kilnbridge was appointed to deliver the full substructure package for three of the main residential blocks, a critical phase that underpinned the structural integrity and programme delivery of the wider scheme.
Our Approach
Kilnbridge’s work involved extensive bulk excavation across three plots within a constrained urban footprint, followed by the installation of robust waterproofing systems designed to protect the substructures. This was critical considering the adjacent River Thames. The team constructed the pile caps and ground beams that form the structural foundation for the superstructures, before delivering ground‑bearing slabs capable of supporting significant load transfer. From there, Kilnbridge progressed the formation of the vertical reinforced concrete elements up to the transfer slab, enabling the transition to the precast frames above.
The project presented several layers of complexity. Access to the Leamouth Peninsula is inherently restricted due to its position surrounded by water on three sides, requiring careful planning and coordination to maintain the programme. Kilnbridge successfully navigated these constraints, ensuring that materials, plant and its site team could move efficiently despite the logistical challenges. The site was also highly active, with multiple contractors working simultaneously. Kilnbridge’s collaborative approach to interface management ensured that all parties could operate safely and effectively within a limited footprint, avoiding delays and maintaining momentum.
Precision engineering was essential throughout. Delivering substructure works for multi‑storey residential blocks demanded exacting tolerances, particularly where pile caps, beams and vertical elements needed to align seamlessly with the precast superstructure. Kilnbridge’s engineering expertise worked closely with the precast frame contractor, ensuring that every element was constructed to exacting specification, ensuring a seamless transition to the frame construction.
Outcomes
The Goodluck Hope project highlights Kilnbridge’s ability to deliver complex civil engineering packages in demanding urban environments. The team’s technical mastery in excavation, reinforced concrete construction and waterproofing was central to the success of the works, particularly given the proximity to tidal waters and the need for resilient structural solutions. Their collaborative working style ensured smooth coordination with developer Ballymore and specialist contractors, while disciplined planning and programme management enabled the works to be completed on time.
Conclusion
Every aspect of the delivery reflected Kilnbridge’s commitment to quality, from the accuracy of the structural elements to the consistency of the concrete finishes. The successful completion of the substructure for the three blocks provided the essential foundation for one of East London’s most ambitious residential developments, demonstrating Kilnbridge’s capability to take on complex, multi‑faceted engineering challenges and deliver them with precision, reliability and excellence.