Large span trusses create home for ethnic fare retailer

Leicestershire-based steelwork contractor Adey Steel has completed works on a new food retail outlet in Dresden, Stoke-on-Trent for contractor Shah Builders.

Supplying the full steelwork package, the structure was said to be relatively lightweight but complex with the most notable challenge being the roof structure.

This is supported by heavily loaded, one piece bespoke manufactured trusses of 21m in length and almost 3m in depth, to accommodate the clear opening retail areas at ground floor level.

The project was erected in 12 days over 5 phases using a BIM model on site to assist with some of the connections. A culvert running beneath the site made on-site works very challenging as it limited the space where a crane could be positioned.

Adey Steel Head of Contracts, Iain Griffiths, said: “This project reflects the commitment and skill of the entire Adey Steel team. Along with fabricating and delivering these large trusses, which in itself is a significant task, the team installed the steel frame in what was challenging site conditions.”

The retail unit is now home to PAK Foods, a supplier of ethnic fare. Built on a disused plot of land, the unit sees the space which was formerly home to a primary school brought back to life, after being unused for a decade.