Gunite for chocolate factory

Specialists in concrete repair and external refurbishment, CRA members Gunite (Eastern) Ltd were appointed by the Concrete and Corrosion Consultancy Practice Ltd to provide concrete repairs and coatings in the first phase of the redevelopment of this historic industrial building.

The former Elizabeth Shaw chocolate factory in Bristol, built in 1915, is one of the oldest concrete-framed multi-storey buildings in the country.  As it was a listed building, it couldn’t be knocked down completely and will instead become the framework for 140 new homes, workspace and a community hub.

The building had been derelict and open to the elements for many years.  There was extensive cracking and spalling to the concrete with exposed corroding steel reinforcement.

The Scope of Works includes grit blasting to soffits, beams and columns; installation of edge protection; preparation and protection of reinforcement; concrete repairs; and protective coatings including a migrating corrosion inhibitor.

The current phase of work has been completed on time and within budget with a 10-year warranty provided by Fosroc.