Steel upgrade for Welsh town centre

More than 750t of structural steelwork has been galvanized for the construction of a 600-space multi-storey car park and a 2,200m² retail unit, as part of the first phase of the redevelopment of Neath’s shopping district.

Worksop Galvanizing (part of the Wedge Group) partnered its long-standing client and project steelwork contractor Caunton Engineering to galvanize the steel.

The project, which is being overseen by main contractor, Kier Construction, saw Worksop Galvanizing process structural steel including beams and columns to construct the new structures.

Funded by the Regeneration Investment Fund for Wales (RIFW), the project is central to attracting more people to the town, and create a vibrant place to live, work, and socialise.

Caunton Engineering Divisional Director Steven Waterhouse said: “We have worked with Worksop Galvanizing on previous projects, and knew the size of the galvanizing bath at the facility would easily accommodate the 16m-long beams which formed the main structure of the car park.”

The use of galvanized steel was a specific request of the contractor as it will ensure the framework and beams are protected against rust and corrosion for years to come.”

Worksop Galvanizing Commercial Manager Paul Robinson, explained: “This project was a fantastic one to work on, especially as it will create so many new retail and job opportunities in Neath, which will no doubt strengthen the economy of the town.”