Princesshay, Exeter – Concrete Repairs
Located in the heart of Exeter, with the city’s iconic cathedral as its backdrop, Princesshay hosts over 70 leading high street brands. Originally constructed in the early 1950s to replace buildings destroyed during the WWII Baedeker Blitz, the development required remedial works following signs of concrete deterioration, including spalling, cracking, rust staining and exposed reinforcement which posed potential safety risks.
Harris Evolution was appointed by The Crown Estate to deliver a programme of concrete repairs in what was a live shopping environment. Given the site’s prominence and high daily footfall, works had to be carefully programmed to minimise disruption to both retailers and the public.
Damaged concrete was removed using handheld breakers to fully expose the reinforcement. Corroded steel was cleaned and replaced where necessary, before the application of a steel protector and primer. Temporary shuttering was installed and a bonding aid applied to the existing surfaces, with repair mortar used to reinstate the broken areas. Repairs were finished with a float to match the existing surfaces, ensuring a seamless appearance.
Access to the work areas was facilitated through the design and installation of bespoke scaffolding solutions, erected early in the mornings and positioned to avoid shop entrances. Programming was critical, with works restricted to three units at a time and an embargo in place from November to January to prevent disruption during the busy Christmas trading period. All works were completed in accordance with The Crown Estate’s strict health and safety requirements, ensuring the highest standards were maintained throughout.
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