One North Quay

The project commenced with the controlled demolition of the existing marine deck structure adjacent to the North Dock. Operating within a constrained marine site, Kilnbridge implemented precision demolition techniques to ensure minimal disruption and environmental impact. The works involved the removal of a section of reinforced concrete slabs and marine piles, across an area measuring 150 metres long by 20 metres wide. This involved the use of underwater demolition techniques, including cutting of over 60 concrete piles at 3.5 metres below the water line.

Following demolition, Kilnbridge worked with Bachy Soletanche, who undertook the installation of new concrete piles to support the vertical structure. Using continuous flight auger (CFA) and marine piling methods, the team delivered a robust foundation system designed for long-term performance and future adaptability.

Part of the process included the innovative design of a series of mini coffer dams by the Kilnbridge team. These were located around the new piles and were designed as permanent formwork which was to be left in place once work was completed. Works also included the onsite production of precast elements including pile caps, slabs and planks and primary and edge beams.

In line with Canary Wharf Group’s forward-thinking approach to sustainability, advanced geotechnical monitoring was embedded into the pile design to enable performance-based reuse in future redevelopment cycles.

The design of One North Quay presented a number of challenges in terms of pushing the boundaries of structural engineering. The main structure of the building core was created using slip form construction, with the towers rising at a rate of 1.8 mtrs per day and completed in just 15 weeks.

The north and south ends of the structure, which cantilever whilst sitting on top of 10 metre high exposed columns, required a different approach. This element of the build saw the creation of a series of transfer beams that sit on top of the columns. The beams – up to 20 metres in length and 2.8 metres high and 2 metres wide, weighing in excess of 380 tonnes – were created using an Efco Plate Girder systems. This system negated the need for soffit support from ground level, enabling the beams to be cast in situ without exerting a load onto the floor slabs below.

One North Quay is targeting ambitious embodied carbon reductions across its construction lifecycle. Some of the material removed as part of the marine deck demolition was removed from site for processed and recycled back into concrete being used on the project core. The recycling of structural steel is also being used to further circularity principles.

Kilnbridge collaborated closely with the design team to trial and implement low carbon concrete mixes for the basement box and slipform cores. These mixes incorporated recycled aggregates and supplementary cementitious materials, contributing to the project’s carbon budget while maintaining structural integrity. Waste minimisation, material reuse, and energy-efficient construction practices were embedded throughout delivery. Over 25 number differing concrete mixes have been tested for this project, with mixes being selected based on weather conditions and end use.

Kilnbridge’s multidisciplinary team coordinated the delivery of this highly complex project, integrating temporary works, logistics and sequencing within a live urban environment. The constrained site – with the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) within a matter of metres of the structure in places – required meticulous planning and collaboration with stakeholders to manage access, safety and programme.