Steelwork aids Milton Keynes recycling strategy 

Named as England’s top recycling city, Milton Keynes is constructing the first of two new and improved steel-framed reuse and recycling centres. 

Designed by TMV Architects, the facility in Wolverton will feature step-free, split-level access, improved signage, and clear separation between public areas and heavy vehicle movements.  

Structural steelwork is playing an important role, as the important split-level is incorporated into a 70m-long steel-framed canopy that forms the centrepiece of the facility.  

Beneath the canopy, a series of eight 6m-long x 2m-wide platform gantries are arranged along the length of the structure, creating easy access for customers at the upper level to directly deposit items into containers, which are located on the lower level. On either side of each gantry, there are 6m-wide bays that can accommodate two refuse containers. 

Gaining some support from a retaining wall that creates the two-level plot, the gantries are each supported by four columns, which are concrete encased at the lower level to protect them from any potential vehicle or container impact. 

Working on behalf of main contractor Ashe Group, HBE Services is fabricating, supplying and erecting the steelwork package for the centre.