The Challenge: Building Safely Beside the Runway
Gatwick Airport, one of the UK’s busiest transport hubs, required a major infrastructure upgrade with the construction of a new Boeing maintenance hangar. To support the works, a temporary roadway was needed to allow heavy construction vehicles to move safely across the site.
Given the location’s proximity to active taxiways, any trackway system had to meet rigorous safety criteria. The solution had to be not only robust under vehicle loads but also firmly fixed to prevent uplift from the jet blast of passing aircraft.
The GroundGuards Solution: XtremeMat Roadway Installation
GroundGuards recommended XtremeMat as the ideal solution for this demanding environment. The mats, each measuring four metres by two metres, were delivered on site for an initial four-month hire.
Installation began with careful craning using a hiab fitted with a four-leg chain set, allowing safe and efficient positioning. Once in place, the mats were joined using mega bolts to form a seamless, load-bearing surface. Spiral pins were then driven through the mats to secure them directly to the ground, eliminating any risk of uplift.
The resulting roadway was clearly defined, strong enough for heavy plant, and fully compliant with the safety needs of an airside environment.
Results & Outcome: A Smooth Start to a Major Project
The client was impressed with how quickly and easily the system was installed. With XtremeMat in place, the project team could mobilise heavy vehicles across the site confidently, knowing that all health and safety protocols had been addressed.
Construction of the new hangar is now well underway, with XtremeMat continuing to provide secure, high-performance ground protection for this vital development at Gatwick.
Contact GroundGuards for Secure Construction Access
If your site requires robust, safety-compliant access near sensitive infrastructure, GroundGuards has the experience and product range to help. Our team is ready to advise on temporary access solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us today and build with confidence.
