The Cavalry and Guards Club, a prestigious Grade II* listed building located in the heart of London, required sensitive and expertly managed access solutions to facilitate internal conservation works. Alltask was appointed by DBR to design and deliver a bespoke scaffolding solution that provided full access to the internal dome lantern from both above and below, while maintaining the building’s historic integrity and operational needs.
Full Internal Birdcage Scaffold: Designed to span across the grand stairwell and rise to ceiling level, this birdcage scaffold enabled safe internal access for conservation and repair works to the internal finishes and plasterwork.
Temporary Roof Structure (External): Constructed above the ornate domed lantern, this temporary roof prevented water ingress during the restoration phase. The roof platform enabled secure external access and protection to the delicate lantern structure.
Hanging Access Scaffold: Suspended working platforms were installed internally below the lantern to provide a safe working area for detailed repair works and inspections.
Technical Approach
All scaffold works used aluminium tube and composite boards exclusively. This lightweight material specification was an important consideration due to the limited load-bearing capacity of the internal floor and lantern supports, ensuring both safety and structural compliance.
The design incorporated multi-level working platforms that adapted to the architectural constraints of the stairwell and dome. Scaffold fixings were carefully positioned to avoid damage to ornate cornices, balustrades, and tiled finishes.
The scaffolding system was fully designed in-house and implemented in line with TG20:21 and SG4 guidelines, with regular inspections and adaptations throughout the project to accommodate changing access requirements.
Challenges & Solutions
The use of aluminium and composite decking helped reduce the overall weight of the scaffold system while maintaining strength and durability.
Through a combination of hanging scaffold platforms and an external temporary roof, teams were able to safely access and carry out works at the lantern apex, both internally and externally.
Project Outcomes
Safe and effective access to all required work areas without compromising the building’s heritage features and the club remained operational throughout the works.
Zero incidents or near misses during the scaffold operations, reflecting Alltask’s commitment to safety and precision.