We worked for Southern Gas Networks (SGN) on the gas works site in the residential town of Cowley in Oxford. Cowley is the home of the world-famous Mini car.

This project involved the decommissioning (desludging and dewatering) and demolition of Gasholder No. 1, an above-ground spiral guided holder with four lifts built in c1960. The works also included the removal of the associated pipework and plant, along with buildings currently occupying the site and infilling the holder pits.

The vessel measured approximately 55 metres in diameter of riveted steel construction with a steel tank.

Site overview video:

We were appointed as the CDM Advisor for the project. Our roles included checking the Principal Contractor’s Construction Phase Plan (CPP) and reviewing the Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS) for the project before issuing the Authorisation to commence construction activities.

Throughout the project’s period, we carried out audits which were planned to coincide with the specific phases of the project. Such audits included the CDM compliance audit, a specific environmental audit to ensure the sludge and waste were removed in line with the Environmental Agency’s requirements, and a process-specific demolition audit.

• Review and comment on the Construction Phase Plan and issue a report.
• Review and comment on the Risk Assessments and Method Statement and issue a report.
• Carry out the pre-start CDM site audit and issue a report.
• Carry out the environmental site audit and issue a report.
• Carry out the demolition process site audit and issue a report.