Britcon was appointed by Guardian Industries to deliver a major civil engineering and construction package as part of the expansion of its float glass manufacturing facility in Goole. Valued at £3.3 million and delivered over a 48 week programme, the project formed part of Guardian Industries’ wider £80 million investment in increasing production capacity and enhancing operational efficiency.
The works involved a combination of complex civil engineering, structural, and building elements within a live manufacturing environment, requiring detailed planning, close coordination with stakeholders, and a strong focus on maintaining safe operations throughout.
Scope of Works
Britcon delivered a comprehensive design and construction solution to support the facility expansion. Key elements of the works included the construction of a new process building alongside extensive civil engineering and infrastructure improvements across the site. The project scope comprised the installation of a new site access road and parking facilities, significant reinforced concrete foundations, piled foundations, structural steel portal frame construction, external cladding systems, and associated hard landscaping works. In addition, Britcon undertook complex modifications within operational areas of the factory, including reinforced concrete alterations to the cullet tunnel and turntable stacker systems.
The project required the integration of multiple specialist subcontractors and suppliers, supported by digital construction technologies and BIM processes to facilitate collaboration and efficient information management.
Challenges
Delivering major construction works within a live manufacturing facility presented a number of challenges. Maintaining uninterrupted operations while carrying out substantial civil and structural works required meticulous planning and sequencing. The project involved extensive reinforced concrete and foundation works in close proximity to existing operational infrastructure, requiring detailed coordination and strict safety controls. Complex internal modifications within the cullet handling systems further increased programme and logistical challenges. Managing multiple specialist disciplines under a design and construct procurement route required early engagement with designers, suppliers, and subcontractors to ensure buildability, minimise programme risk, and maintain quality standards throughout the project.
Outcomes
The successful completion of the Float Glass Plant Expansion provided Guardian Industries with enhanced manufacturing infrastructure capable of supporting increased production capacity and future operational growth. Britcon delivered a high quality production facility alongside essential supporting infrastructure, creating a robust platform for the client’s investment programme. Through collaborative working, effective use of BIM and digital construction tools, and strong supply chain integration, the project was completed to the exacting standards required within a technically demanding industrial environment.
The development demonstrates Britcon’s capability to deliver complex industrial projects that combine civil engineering, structural steel construction, specialist process building requirements, and operational site constraints within a single coordinated solution.