Modern, Durable Balustrade for Heavitree Social Club
Armada Way Public Realm Regeneration, Plymouth
Project Overview
Stoneman Engineering was appointed by Morgan Sindall to deliver a range of bespoke architectural steelwork and feature structures as part of the regeneration of Armada Way, Plymouth. The project formed part of a major public realm transformation, creating a modern, attractive urban green space for residents and visitors while enhancing the city’s civic environment.
The Brief
The client required high-quality, durable architectural features that would complement the contemporary landscape design while withstanding the demands of a busy public space. The solution needed to combine visual impact with long-term performance and low maintenance.
The Solution
To achieve the desired aesthetic and durability, the project incorporated a variety of bespoke fabricated elements, including:
- Corten steel feature structures chosen for their distinctive weathered appearance and self-protecting, low-maintenance finish.
- Stainless steel balustrades providing a clean, modern appearance and excellent corrosion resistance.
- Glazed photovoltaic (PV) canopies, combining weather protection with renewable energy generation.
- Bespoke information signage and cycle signage integrated throughout the development.
Together, these elements helped create an inviting, functional and visually striking public space that encourages walking, cycling and community use.
Design & Engineering
Stoneman Engineering provided a complete design and engineering package, including detailed design development and structural calculations.
Materials were carefully selected to balance strength, longevity and appearance, including:
- Corten steel
- Galvanised box section steel
- Galvanised universal beams (UBs)
- Stainless steel tube
- Photovoltaic glass
Upper canopy support arms were powder coated to provide a durable decorative finish while complementing the overall architectural design. All fabricated steelwork was produced to Execution Class 2 (EXC2) standards.
Manufacture & Installation
As a repeat customer, Morgan Sindall appointed Stoneman Engineering to undertake both fabrication and installation.
Following fabrication, the structures were transported to site and installed using a HIAB crane, particularly for the canopy steelwork and glazed PV panels. Careful planning ensured efficient installation while maintaining progress against a demanding construction programme.
Challenges
One of the project’s greatest engineering challenges was developing the canopy structures to achieve the required structural performance while maintaining the architect’s vision of a lightweight, minimalist appearance.
This was successfully achieved through detailed engineering design, structural calculations and the use of advanced tube laser cutting technology, allowing complex, accurate fabrication with exceptional finish quality.
Programme
- Project duration: March 2025 – July 2026
- Completion: Delivered on programme and within budget.
Despite challenging deadlines throughout the project, the team successfully maintained programme requirements and delivered every phase on schedule.
Outcome
The completed Armada Way redevelopment has transformed the area into a vibrant contemporary public space, significantly improving the environment for residents, visitors and local businesses.
The combination of architectural steelwork, renewable energy canopies and carefully integrated public infrastructure has created a landmark civic space that is both practical and visually impressive.
Morgan Sindall expressed their satisfaction with the finished project, praising both the quality of workmanship and the successful delivery within a demanding programme.
Project Highlights
- Major public realm regeneration project
- Bespoke corten steel architectural features
- Stainless steel balustrades
- Glazed photovoltaic canopies
- Full design, structural calculations, fabrication and installation
- Advanced tube laser cutting for precision manufacture
- Delivered to EXC2 standards
- Completed on time and within budget
- Repeat client relationship with Morgan Sindall