Contractor builds book with car park project

A building sector contractor has driven forward its order book with a car park project.

MGM Construction has carried out pillar reinforcement work at Newcastle’s Times Square multi-storey base.

Bosses say operator Centre for Life ordered the work after it emerged bulky electric vehicles had been putting “undue stress” on car parks across the UK.

The project saw ten pillars wrapped with steel collars before triple-strength concrete was added to bolster their standing at the car park, which is used by commuters and music and football fans given its proximity to Newcastle's Utilita Arena and St James’ Park. 

Phil Burridge, managing director at Gateshead-based MGM Construction, said: “While electric vehicles are greener, their huge batteries mean they can weigh up to 600kg more than petrol and diesel cars.

“As more people drive electric vehicles, all that extra weight risks putting undue stress on a car park’s existing concrete pillars.

"When car parks were built decades ago, such heavy vehicles didn’t exist and the logic was always that cars would get lighter.

“We hope our work can act as a blueprint for other sites going forward – nothing like this has ever been attempted before.”

Claire Adams, Centre for Life chief operating officer, added: “This investment helps futureproof an important city centre asset in a responsible and sustainable way. 

“By strengthening the existing structure, we are preparing Times Square for changing travel habits, including the growth of electric vehicles, while extending the life of the building.”

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