Sykes & Son have successfully handed over this restoration and repairs led project to the southern part of King’s College London’s Strand Campus.

Works to this prestigious Grade I listed campus began in March of 2019. The programme’s critical path concentrated on removing the existing paving and substrate to access the failing waterproofing, which was causing severe damage to the masonry and classrooms below. What was anticipated as soft sandy substrate turned out to be cementitious and hard, with unknown and untraceable electrical cables laid sporadically within the substrate.

Working very closely with all KCL project stakeholders and Sykes’ sub-contractors, the team devised a safe and efficient method of completing the removal.

New warrantied waterproofing was installed, and the existing paving was re-laid, incorporating new drainage to substantially improve water runoff from the terrace. New cables for future lighting were installed as part of the scheme as well.

As an integral part of the works, Sykes carried out extensive restoration and cleaning works to the stone and brick elements on the Terrace, which included mortar repairs, indents, full surveys and replacement of deteriorated stone. The windows within the Terrace and on the Victoria Embankment were also overhauled and refurbished.

The Boathouse, at terrace level, was restored with specialist cleaning, new lead roofs, masonry restoration works and carpentry and removal of hazardous mercury, a legacy from its former use.

As KCL prepare for the next chapter in its storied history, Sykes are proud to have been part of revitalising such an integral part of London’s cityscape.