Mitchell’s Scaffolding Ltd

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Scaffolding: The Record Breakers!

As scaffolding is so widely used to facilitate all kinds of building and repair work, it is such a familiar sight that it can often go unnoticed. But sometimes a scaffolding structure can be so impressive that it warrants a place in the record books; this edition of the Mitchell's Scaffolding North West blog looks at some of those instances.

Longest Suspended Scaffolding in the World

Scaffolding structures have a modular construction that could theoretically be continued infinitely. The longest suspended scaffolding yet constructed in this modular way was built underneath the busy Pulaski Skyway in New Jersey, measuring a whopping 15,000ft/4,584m in length. The scaffolding was built when crucial repairs were required to the vehicle bridge, giving construction workers a safe, solid platform to work from.

Tallest Sunflower in the World

In the fight to get as much light from the sun as possible, the appropriately-named sunflower can reach impressive heights. The tallest sunflower ever measured was grown by Germany's Hans-Peter Schiffer and reached a dizzying height of 9.17m (which is more than 30ft tall), smashing his own record. Extremely heavy, the sunflower would have collapsed under its own weight if it were not for the purpose-built, multi-level scaffolding structure that supported it.

Tallest House of Cards in the World

Anyone who has tried to build a house of playing cards in an idle moment well knows just how difficult the task can be, rarely getting beyond a couple of levels. Bryan Berg of the USA took the feat to the limit, using over 1,000 packs of playing cards to build a tower of 7.86m (nearly 36ft) in height. Though the house of cards was itself freestanding, Berg used scaffolding to climb up to the higher levels. Once completed and its height officially verified, the tower of cards was destroyed by none other than Berg himself!

Biggest Set of Tubular Bells in the World

A beautiful instrument perhaps most famously used by talented musician Mike Oldfield on his album of the same name, the tubular bells produce a delightful range of aural tones. Simon Desorgher, a member of the UK Eye Music Trust, set the record for the world's largest set of fully playable tubular bells by cutting 120 scaffolding poles to size.

Though we haven't set any world records with our scaffolding (yet!), Mitchell's Scaffolding Blackburn is dedicated to designing and implementing bespoke scaffolding solutions of world-class quality. Find out more about the services we provide on our website.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding Solutions: Demand Grows for Nando's!

Now that COVID-19 lockdown restrictions have FINALLY been lifted and the summer is in full swing, thousands of us are once again enjoying eating out with friends and family. Visitors to a Manchester branch of Nando's can enjoy their meals in comfort and safety thanks to work carried out by the expert team here at Mitchell's Scaffolding North West.

Nando's was founded in South Africa in 1987 by friends and business partners Robert Brozin and Fernando Duarte. After eating at 'Chickenland', a local takeaway, the friends were so impressed by their meal that they impulsively decided to buy the whole business for the equivalent of £25,000.

The entrepreneurial pair expanded their operations with instant, lasting success. In 1992, the first Nando's opened in the UK and there are now 280 branches all over the country, employing in excess of 8,000 staff members. Nando's is renowned for its take on peri-peri chicken though also serves up an extensive and diverse menu of other items including wraps, burgers, vegetarian options, along with a sumptuous selection of sides and desserts.

The Nando's Cheetham Hill branch is located at Fort Street Retail Park, a large and busy shopping complex in the heart of Manchester's City Centre. Extensive repair and renovation work was needed to bring the building up to scratch and the Mitchell's Scaffolding Blackburn team were contracted to design and implement a scaffolding structure that would allow for safe, unrestricted access to facilitate the crucial operations.

After carrying out a detailed site survey, our experienced team designed an appropriate scaffolding structure that was quickly put into place. Repair work began, with the branch remaining open and operational throughout. No disruption was caused to surrounding businesses during the renovations. After the work was completed, the Mitchell's Scaffolding Burnley team moved in to quickly dismantle the bespoke scaffolding structure.

Once the structure was removed, our operatives were understandably feeling rather peckish. We bet you can guess where they went for a meal!

Find out more about some of the projects we have successfully completed in the 'portfolio' section of our website.

 

Scaffolding Solutions for Heritage Buildings

Though renovation and construction are both heavy-duty industries, there are times when they can involve delicate and sympathetic work. Nowhere is this fact more true than when it comes to the repair and protection of older buildings.

Mitchell's Scaffolding North West is particularly experienced with working in this sector and have in the past designed and implemented a number of scaffolding solutions to facilitate vital work on vulnerable listed buildings.

Alan Rene Beauty Salon is housed in a Grade II Listed Building located in Blackburn's busy Church Street. When the beautiful period property required repairs, Mitchell's Scaffolding Blackburn was approached to design and build an appropriate scaffold structure that would allow contractors safe and unrestricted access.

After carrying out a detailed site survey to identify requirements, our expert team got to work on designing a tower scaffold. This was then quickly built and the crucial repair work was carried out. The scaffolding was then removed, paying careful attention to ensure that no further damage was done to the heritage building. Now, the property is just as beautiful as the clients who attend Alan's beauty salon!

Another Grade II Listed Building that we supplied a bespoke scaffolding solution to is on Foundry Street in the heart of Darwen's Town Centre. The building had fallen into disrepair over the years and major repairs were required. Once again, our cherry-picked team carried out a full site survey before designing and implementing the perfect scaffolding solution to meet the unique requirements. The repairs were completed successfully and the scaffolding subsequently removed, leaving the area clean and tidy.

Safety is always our top priority here at Mitchell's Scaffolding Burnley. To this end, all of our operatives are required to carry up-to-date CSRS/CISRS cards. We also work closely with Simian Risk Management, which is recognised as the leading specialist in the complex sector of occupational safety. Mitchell's Scaffolding North West have both Acclaim and CHAS (Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme) accreditation and are members of the SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme).

Please browse the Mitchell's Scaffolding website to find out more information about our services, along with a portfolio containing details of some of our successfully-completed projects.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding to Improve Sustainability

Everyone is enjoying the sunshine at the moment but one homeowner in Blackrod has extra reason to celebrate as they are making big savings on their energy bills as well as helping to protect the environment. The homeowner is achieving this thanks to electricity-generating solar panels, which were installed with the help of Mitchell's Scaffolding North West.

The traditional method of using electricity generated by burning fossil fuels is extremely damaging to the environment, creating an unsustainable carbon footprint. This has resulted in domestic solar panel installations becoming more common as more and more people seek to reduce their environmental impact by using renewable energy.

The job of installing the domestic solar panels was contracted to family-run company EEC Home Improvements, which has been established for more than three decades. To protect and build on their exceptional reputation, EEC Home Improvements only choose to work with trusted partners like Mitchell's Scaffolding Accrington.

Before designing and implementing any scaffolding or other access structure, our expert team first carry out an extensive site survey, which allows us to identify and assess all of the complex variables and factors we will be working with. Extra caution was needed to take the current weather conditions into account and we also had to design a structure that would allow the homeowner, who would remain living at the property during the installation, unrestricted access.

The solar panels are large and heavy yet also contain delicate and fragile components that required protection during handling. In order to lift the weighty panels safely up to the roof level, our designers incorporated a sturdy gin wheel into the bespoke scaffolding structure.

To minimise disturbance to both the homeowner and neighbouring properties, we scheduled a dismantling date at the same time as the booking of the installation. Just seven days after the scaffolding structure was built, it was quickly dismantled and removed by our team.

Check out the 'Portfolio' section of the Mitchell's Scaffolding website for details of many other projects that have been successfully completed by our team.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding: Water, Water Everywhere!

When we turn on a tap in our homes, we take it pretty much for granted that the water will be clean and safe to use. The fact is that there are many factors involved in the provision of clean safe water. One of these is proper water treatment, which takes place in specially-designed plants. When one such plant required extensive repairs, Mitchell's Scaffolding North West were called in to design and implement a bespoke scaffolding structure.

The water treatment plant is located in Slaidburn, which is near to Clitheroe. Water that flows in and out of the plant is controlled by a valve which required replacement after becoming dysfunctional due to age. The expert team at Mitchell's Scaffolding Burnley were contracted to design a scaffolding structure that could bear the weight of the heavy valve as it was hoisted out to allow a new one to be lowered in.

Other factors that had to be taken into account were the actual positioning of the valve as well as the location of steel plates embedded into the floor. The scaffolding was installed in an area of frequent usage by employees and so we incorporated extra safety features into the design such as sturdy barriers, nipple caps and end caps.

After the scaffolding was built and the hoist tested, the water in the plant's main pipe was frozen, allowing for removal of the broken valve. The new valve was then lowered into place and the water defrosted, restoring the system's complete functionality. Our team then quickly dismantled and removed the scaffolding structure.

To ensure that any disruption to the water supply was minimised, strict deadlines were put into place. Our team, with their exceptional experience, were easily able to meet these short time frames and the entire project, from first contact to completion, took only seven days.

You can read more details about this project, along with many others successfully completed by Mitchell's Scaffolding Accrington, in the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Mitchell's Scaffolding North West: Meeting the Deadline...

With many construction and renovation projects, it is important that the work is carried out to extremely tight time constraints to avoid unnecessary disruption. The Mitchell's Scaffolding North West team are used to meeting deadlines and can work quickly and efficiently with absolutely zero compromise on quality and safety. In this edition of our blog, we look at one project we completed in just a single day.

The Burnley branch of the Yorkshire Bank is located on the corner of the busy Manchester Road, right in the heart of the town centre. As the appearance of the building had suffered over the years, renovation work involving replacement of upper level windows and aesthetic decoration was planned. Directors from the branch approached Mitchell's Scaffolding Burnley to plan and implement a scaffolding structure that would facilitate the work.

To avoid any interruption to customers of the Yorkshire Bank branch, the scaffolding structure had to be built and subsequently dismantled in just 24 hours. Thanks to the experience, flexibility and dedication of our cherry-picked team here at Mitchell's Scaffolding Accrington, this tight time frame proved to be no obstacle.

While the relevant licence and scaffold permits were obtained from Lancashire Highways, our expert team got to work designing the bespoke scaffold structure. To provide contractors with safe, simple and unobstructed access, the planned structure included three fully-boarded lifts at the base. We also incorporated ladder access at each level along with ladder traps.

Our team also included a number of safeguarding features such as debris nets to protect pedestrians walking beneath the scaffolding. To ensure the structure was stable, it was firmly tied to the building.

You can find out about projects we have completed in the 'Portfolio' section of our website. If you need any further information about our comprehensive suite of professional scaffolding and access services, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our skilled technical team.

 

Scaffolding & Access Services: Our Comprehensive Collection

Here at Mitchell's Scaffolding North West, we offer a comprehensive suite of scaffolding and access services to the domestic, commercial, municipal and industrial sectors. We specialise in designing and implementing bespoke solutions to suit any project, all with a strong focus on safety, efficiency, reliability and cost-effectiveness.

Each operative on our expert team has been cherry-picked for their exceptional knowledge and experience. Together, they work to deliver a professional collection of access services including:

Scaffold Supply, Hire and Erection

Our team work closely together to design a wide range of scaffolding structures, focusing on each client as an individual and guaranteeing to deliver the very best solution. Whether on a large or small scale and designed for short- or long-term use, our scaffolding structures are strong and robust, erected with close regard to safety and efficacy. We own a huge collection of scaffolding boards, tubes and fittings, which can be used in an infinite variety of combinations to exactly suit the unique needs of any given applications. We can also provide an array of accessories as required, including such elements as safety netting, security gates, gin wheels, rubbish chutes, hop ups, edge protection, brickguards and much more.

To ensure the highest levels of safety, we utilise many different methodologies including risk assessments, method statements, handover certificates and scafftags. All of our operatives carry up-to-date CISRS/CSCS cards for your peace of mind.

Temporary Roofs

A temporary roof allows building work to continue without being negatively affected by the weather, preventing costly downtime and allowing deadlines to be met. We can create bespoke temporary roofs to suit any type of building or site, whatever its size, shape and location.

Stair Towers and Staircases

We offer access to a wide variety of stair systems to allow workers safe, easy access to roofs and other elevated points. Erected in minutes, our temporary stair systems allow work to begin immediately and are supplied complete with handrails at the correct safety specification.

These are just some of the professional scaffolding services and equipment available from Mitchell's Scaffolding Burnley. Browse our website to discover more.

 

Mitchell's Scaffolding North West: Loud and Proud!

At Mitchell's Scaffolding Accrington, we own and maintain a fleet of wagons which are used to transport scaffolding components to sites all over the UK. One of our wagons was used for a rather different purpose at the Manchester Pride festival...

Formerly known as Mardi Gras, the Manchester Pride festival has been an annual event since 1985. The festival celebrates LGBTQ+ people and their lives, with every penny raised being donated to charity. Many high-profile artists have performed at the event over the years, including Ariana Grande, Bananarama, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Gabrielle, Faithless and Basement Jaxx. The highlight of the event is a colourful parade of floats, which winds through the streets and attracts thousands of visitors.

Mitchell's Scaffolding North West was proud to be part of Manchester Pride by supplying a vehicle and driver to carry the main sponsor of the event along with popular band Scooch, who are perhaps best known for representing the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest.

Our driver John Scrivens arrived early on Saturday morning to give the Thomas Cook team plenty of time to decorate the wagon with balloons, ribbons and flags. We installed a small stage to the back of the driver's cab and positioned a sound system beneath: these were to be used by Scooch who would perform their big hits as part of the parade.

Led by Sir Ian Mckellen with our float following behind, the parade got underway. Unusually for the August Bank Holiday, the sun was shining brightly! The convoy of floats made its way along the route around Manchester City Centre, with thousands of people lining the streets and cheering us on.

As with all of our work carried out by Mitchell's Scaffolding Blackburn, we had a strong focus on health and safety, ensuring that the people on our wagon could enjoy the day safely.

Check out the 'portfolio' page of the Mitchell's Scaffolding website to see more images from the Manchester Pride event, along with details of many other projects we have successfully completed.

 

Global Timber Shortage Affects UK Scaffolding Industry

A worldwide shortage of timber is affecting the UK's scaffolding industry, causing dramatic price rises for crucial scaffolding boards. Several leading organisations from across the construction industry have expressed concern about the issue.

Mitchells-Scaffolding-Ltd

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) was one of the first organisations to raise concerns about already-low and rapidly-dwindling stocks of European softwood which, among many other uses in the construction industry, is the raw material that is used to manufacture scaffolding boards in the UK.

The global timber shortage is being blamed on a number of factors, including 'faltering availability' and swiftly-rising raw material prices. Aggravating the issue are high levels of sustained growth in the construction industry in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Unusually high demand from the three largest global markets (Russia, China and the US) have contributed to the situation that is predicted to take 'months to stabilise and years to fully recover'.

Global demand is being fuelled by the US, which is purchasing 'record volumes' of timber as well as paying unusually-high prices to build houses with timber frames. China is buying much of Europe's supply and that of a number of other regions around the world. Furthermore, massive growth of Europe's DIY market has increased demand for timber, resulting in the skyrocketing prices.

According to figures published in independent scaffolding news magazine Scaffmag, scaffolding contractors are paying up to an average of £16 for a 13ft board, representing a massive increase of 50% as compared to last year. Further price increases are predicted in June and July 2021.

One UK supplier of scaffolding boards said: "The market is difficult to predict but indications are at the end of Q3 the prices will plateau out... but we don’t think we will ever see boards priced at £7 – £9 again."

These are turbulent times indeed for the UK's construction industry in general and the scaffolding industry in particular. Our customers can rest assured that Mitchell's Scaffolding will continue to provide our services with the most competitive pricing structure and that there will never be any compromise on quality or safety.

For updates on this situation, along with lots more essential industry news, please subscribe to receive the regular Mitchell's Scaffolding newsletter. You are also invited to follow us on Facebook.

 

Mitchell's Scaffolding North West: Let Us Entertain You...!

With help from Mitchell's Scaffolding North West, a brand new outdoor arts venue has been built in Manchester. The temporary venue, named 'Homeground', will provide 'an outdoor summer destination for people looking for a fun and safe night out as the lockdown rules start to ease in the UK'.

Homeground is built on a massive scale: its 80,000 square foot development site is three times the size of Manchester's famous Albert Square. The Venue is located next to HOME MCR, the arts establishment responsible for spearheading the project. A wide range of events and activities are planned, including cinema, music, theatre, comedy and cabaret as well as plenty of food and drink.

Homeground centres on the Auto Trader Show Ground, which is a socially-distanced performance space that can seat up to 400 audience members. The first two shows to appear on the new stage (new productions of A Midsummer Night's Dream and Alice in Wonderland) are both presented by Filter Theatre Company.

The venue also incorporates the Bruntwood Stage, which will play host to a number of free events including DJ club nights and the Manchester Folk Music Takeover. Other partners scheduled to show new work at the venue include Contact Theatre, Trans Creative and the Frog & Bucket Comedy Club. A number of food and drink stallholders will be providing refreshments, including the Tibetan Kitchen, Black Market Espresso and Wolf to the Door Cocktails.

The Homeground project will create no less than 450 much-needed employment opportunities for creative practitioners and freelance artists. These opportunities are extremely important for the creative economy of Manchester, which has been hit particularly hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mitchell's Scaffolding Blackburn were extremely proud to be involved in making the Homeground project become a reality. Our team designed and implemented a range of scaffolding and access solutions over an intense period of five days, all the while ensuring that health and safety guidelines were rigidly adhered to.

Find out more about the diverse work carried out by Mitchell's Scaffolding Accrington by browsing the 'Portfolio' section of our website. For updates on this project, along with lots of other news and features, please subscribe to our regular newsletter and follow us on Facebook.

 

The Benefits of Temporary Roofs

In addition to designing and installing scaffolding structures, Mitchell's Scaffolding Accrington are also able to provide temporary roofs to a diverse array of projects. There are many benefits associated with temporary roofs and this edition of our blog reveals just some of them.

  • 'Protection' is the key word when it comes to talking about temporary roofs. Designed to protect structures from the unpredictable UK weather, a temporary roof will keep any structure safe
  • In addition to protecting the structure itself, a temporary roof from Mitchell's Scaffolding Burnley creates a protected environment for workers, keeping them dry in the event of rain
  • The tools and equipment used on building sites are expensive and can easily be damaged by exposure to the elements. A temporary roof will help to keep such equipment in perfect working order
  • A temporary roof can provide plenty of cost savings, for example if you need to cover a damaged area while repair plans are worked out. They avoid any need for costly downtime if the weather prevents work from continuing
  • If you are in the process of sourcing funds to provide a permanent solution, a temporary roof is ideal for protecting an ongoing project that needs to be paused for any reason

Here at Mitchell's Scaffolding, we utilise state-of-the-art roofing systems that can be adapted to suit all kinds of roofs from pitched to polygonal and anywhere in between. Our expert team will first fully assess and identify the unique requirements of your project, before working closely together and using their exceptional experience and knowledge to design the best solution. That solution will then be carefully implemented and monitored throughout the entire length of your project.

The Mitchell's Scaffolding team can boast extensive experience of designing and implementing temporary roof coverings in a wide and diverse array of different applications, delivering protection, containment and combinations of the two. We work to strict safety protocols for your peace of mind and offer impeccable customer service to ensure complete satisfaction every time.

Find out more information about our temporary roof services on the website and do not hesitate to contact our dedicated customer service team for further advice and support.

 

Access Solutions: Ready for Roofers!

Everyone expects the traditional April showers but nobody seems to have told the weather that we are well into May! There has been lots of rain so far this month and, unfortunately for most of us, weather forecasters are gloomily predicting much more to come. One group of people who DO benefit from the bad weather are roofing contractors, as there is lots of work to be done in order to repair leaking roofs!

A crucial aspect of any such repair project is gaining safe, reliable access to the roof itself. That's where Mitchell's Scaffolding Accrington can help. We offer a comprehensive selection of services designed to provide the access roofing contractors need.

Scaffold Supply, Hire and Erection

Through a continual process of investment, Mitchell's Scaffolding have built up a first-class collection of scaffolding components like boards, tubes and fittings, all of which are selected for their exceptional quality. Using these components, our expert team are able to design and build scaffolds of all different sizes and configurations, designed to exactly suit any individual project. The structures we build can then be enhanced with other features like ladders, safety gates, propping, debris netting and rubbish chutes. Our number one priority is always the safety and so every one of our skilled operatives is required to carry a valid CSCS/CISRS card. We also use method statements, handover certificates, risk assessments and staff tags.

Temporary Roofs

Roof repair projects, especially those on a large scale, are vulnerable to the effects of inclement weather. Heavy rain and/or strong winds can result in major delays, hindering target times and often incurring high financial costs due to unexpected downtime. Mitchell's Scaffolding Burnley offer a comprehensive temporary roof service to help avoid such delays and can deliver bespoke solutions for any shape, size and type of building.

Find out more about our access solutions on the Mitchell's Scaffolding website

 

Bespoke Scaffolding: Bridge Over Troubled Waters...

Though we really should be used to rain in the UK, the fact is that it can cause serious disruption. As mentioned in the previous edition of our blog, rainfall this year has been higher than average and there have been many incidents of flooding around the country. Mitchell's Scaffolding have been contracted on a number of occasions to provide access solutions for a range of projects aimed at protecting structures and people from the devastating damage caused by floods.

One such project took place in Cheshire at Pownall Bridge. The river beneath has been prone to flooding in the past, which caused damage to the stone bridge that crosses it. When the local council proposed a thorough examination of the bridge to identify repair work that needed to be carried out, Mitchell's Scaffolding were contracted to design and implement a temporary bridge for the use of pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.

Fortunately for our team, there was extremely good access to the site: this allowed our operatives to park up much closer to the site than first thought and saved them a lot of difficult work carrying scaffolding components over extended distances.

The first job was to lay railway sleepers as foundations, ensuring that a super-strong and robust base could be achieved. Twin beams were then installed at each elevation over the river below before gravel tracks were laid down to direct people to the new temporary bridge. One end of the platform was installed at a corresponding angle, providing a smooth and level transition between the bridge and the gravel walkway.

Once installed, the bridge was made safe for pedestrians with the installation of sturdy handrails and guards. Each fitting was then covered with protective caps, ensuring the prevention of any injuries to people and horses using the temporary bridge. After the vital repairs had been completed on Pownall Bridge, our operatives dismantled and removed the structure, leaving the area perfectly clean and tidy.

This is just one of the hundreds of projects carried out by the expert team at Mitchell's Scaffolding. Check out the 'Portfolio' section of our website to discover details of other successfully completed projects.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding: Rain, Rain, Go Away!

Spring 2021 has seen higher than average rainfall across the country; in some places it has been severe enough to cause localised flooding. One location that has definitely NOT suffered any flooding is at a row of private houses in Rossendale, thanks in part to a bespoke scaffolding solution designed and installed by the Mitchell's Scaffolding team.

Follyclough Brook is a waterway in Rossendale. A 70m stretch of the brook runs behind a row of private residential properties; in the past, periods of heavy rainfall created run-off from the brook and caused flooding to the homes. The protective wall that was in place to prevent such occurrences was so badly damaged that it was scheduled for demolition, to be replaced by a new and stronger wall.

Mitchell's Scaffolding was approached by the project managers to design a bespoke scaffolding structure that would provide access to the contractors responsible for demolishing the old wall and building the new one. No sooner had the scaffold been put in place than it had to be removed once again as the weather took a dramatic turn for the worse; this step was taken to ensure that no debris could become trapped on the upright standing and bracing in the bed of the swollen brook.

As soon as the weather improved, our team moved in to reinstall the scaffolding structure. With a tight time frame of up to four weeks allowed for demolition and subsequent rebuilding, contractors immediately got to work. The Mitchell's Scaffolding team remained on standby during the work, ready to dismantle the scaffolding quickly in the event of more bad weather.

Thankfully, the weather remained good enough to allow work to progress without any further incident. Once the old wall was demolished and the new one built, our team quickly dismantled the scaffolding structure and cleared up the area, leaving it clean, tidy and safe.

The new wall was put to the test over the past couple of months and passed with flying colours, keeping the row of houses entirely free from flooding. Mitchell's Scaffolding was proud to have played such a vital role in keeping the homes and their residents safe.

Find out more about our bespoke scaffolding work on the Mitchell's Scaffolding website.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding: The Safety of Sprinklers

A crucial aspect of workplace safety is reducing the threat posed by fire. There are many ways to achieve this but perhaps one of the most reliable is a sprinkler system, which automatically activates when fire is detected, dousing the flames from above before they can take hold. As part of a major refurbishment program, a food production facility based in Scunthorpe decided to install such a system: they chose Mitchell's Scaffolding  to provide suspended scaffolding to provide the necessary access.

Two Sisters Food Group own and maintain substantial premises, including a central warehouse along with administration and maintenance facilities. A wide range of refurbishments were scheduled, the most significant of which was the installation of the new sprinkler system.

The project's extensive scale presented a number of challenges to our team. One of these was to design and implement a scaffolding structure in the vicinity of a forklift doorway that was in constant use, without impeding full operational access. Our team were easily able to meet this and all other requirements thanks to their exceptional knowledge and experience.&

An opening was made to allow our team access to the building's roof space so that the scaffold tubing and other components could be manually lifted into place. Once in the roof space, this equipment was carried to the required areas, a distance equivalent to the length of three football pitches.

As work progressed, additional walkways were put into place. After the new sprinkler system had been installed and tested, our team dismantled the scaffolding structure quickly and efficiently.&

Find out more about past projects we have successfully completed by browsing the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding: The Power of the Sun!

Many of the scaffolding structures we design and build are intended to give contractors safe, unrestricted access to a property's roof. Usually this is so the roof can be repaired but one project we worked on involved creating a unique scaffolding structure that would facilitate the installation of solar panels.

As awareness of the need to protect the environment continues to grow, domestic solar panels are becoming a more common sight. Using sustainable, renewable solar energy results in a reduced need for the use of fossil fuels, helping to lower carbon footprints.

The installation of the solar panels was carried out by EEC Home Improvements, a family-run company that has been established for over 30 years. As the company has such an impressive reputation in the industry, they choose only the best partner companies to work with and Mitchell's Scaffolding was proud to be a part of the project.

As with every project we work on, the first step for our team was to carry out a detailed site survey. This crucial step ensures that we can take all factors and variables into account before designing the scaffold structure to safely and effectively meet all requirements. One of the key aspects of this particular project was to provide unrestricted access to the property, as the owner would remain living there throughout the installation of the solar panels.  Our design therefore incorporated an access gate and extra safety features.

Another important consideration was protecting the solar panels as they were lifted up to the roof level; though of a heavy weight and large size, the panels contain delicate components that could easily be broken. We solved this challenge by incorporating a gin wheel in our design.

The dismantling date for the scaffold was scheduled at the same time as the installation was booked and allowed just seven days for work to be completed. Once installation of the panels was complete, our team quickly and efficiently dismantled and removed the scaffold structure, ensuring that the area was left clean, tidy and safe.

Find out details about other successfully completed projects by Mitchell's Scaffolding in the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Access All Areas!

As well as providing our services and equipment to the industrial, commercial and municipal sectors, Mitchell's Scaffolding also work on a smaller scale. If you're involved with domestic work such as roofing, we can facilitate your operation with equipment such as temporary staircases, access towers and roofs.

Temporary Staircases

Using a ladder to access roofs and other high places can be dangerous as well as difficult. A temporary staircase from Mitchell's Scaffolding is the ideal solution. Perfect for a wide range of applications, our temporary staircases are available for hire at the most competitive price, offering a cost-effective way to gain fast, safe access for working. Each staircase comes equipped with sturdy handrails positioned at the right safety specification, preventing accidental falls. Quickly and easily erected, the staircases allow you to get to work in minutes!

Alloy Access Towers

Combining a staircase with large, flat platforms to work from, our alloy access towers are available in a wide range of sizes and are infinitely adjustable. Each tower is mounted on robust castor wheels, allowing them to be easily moved as required. The towers are supplied ready for swift, simple erection.

Temporary Roofs

The weather in the UK is notoriously unreliable and this is especially true during the springtime. Within minutes, blue skies and sunshine can disappear to be replaced by high winds and pouring rain! Bad weather can seriously hamper any construction project, posing the threat of damage to materials and equipment as well as making the site unsafe.

The solution to this problem is a temporary roof covering from Mitchell's Scaffolding, which will protect the site from bad weather and allow work to continue unhindered. This means that there is no danger of missing deadlines, damaged equipment and the resulting costs. Whatever the size and shape of site you need to cover, Mitchell's Scaffolding will use the most advanced roofing system to create the perfect solution.

Please browse the Mitchell's Scaffolding website for full details about the range of access and containment solutions we offer. To discuss the unique requirements of your project, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our expert technical team.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding: Take a Seat...

Phase 3 of the UK government's roadmap out of COVID lockdown will begin on May 17th if all goes to plan. Restrictions will be further eased, allowing many outdoor venues to reopen; among these should be Depot Mayfield, where the Mitchell's Scaffolding team completed a rather unusual project...

Depot Mayfield, located in the centre of Manchester, was built in 1910 as a warehouse at the former Mayfield train station. When the station closed to passengers in 1960, the structure was used as a distribution centre for the Royal Mail until 1978. When the centre was moved to a new location, Depot Mayfield was abandoned, remaining empty and unused for almost three decades.

As part of a regeneration scheme with a budget of £1bn, Depot Mayfield was given a new lease of life. The historic venue was completely renovated, being transformed into a brand new, multi-use events space that soon became a leading attraction in the area.

At full capacity, Depot Mayfield can welcome up to 10,000 people. The venue offers a hugely diverse programme of events including concerts, club nights, art exhibitions, markets and both corporate and community events. Sadly, the COVID-19 lockdown has meant that the venue has been closed recently, with all events postponed until further notice.

When a new outdoor seating area was proposed for Depot Mayfield, the venue managers approached Mitchell's Scaffolding to design a bespoke solution. Our expert team got to work and their design was quickly agreed upon.

Our team used scaffolding poles to build a structure with multiple tiers, using quality timber planks to overlay this framework and create the new seating. Once the planks were in place and secured, they were painted in every colour of the rainbow with, as you'll see from these images, absolutely beautiful results. The managers of the venue were extremely impressed with the finished structure and have invited our team back to build similar structures in the future.

We look forward to the COVID lockdown restrictions being eased so that our innovative new seating area can be used and enjoyed.

Check out the 'Portfolio' section of our website to see more images from the Depot Mayfield project.

 

Aqueduct 35: A Unique Scaffolding Solution

Working across the residential, commercial, municipal, and industrial sectors, Mitchell's Scaffolding delivers our scaffolding, access, and containment solutions to a wide and diverse range of projects. Though many of these projects centre on inhabited buildings like houses and workplaces, we also provide services for many uninhabited structures such as Aqueduct 35, which is located in Colne.

To complete this project efficiently, it was important to ensure that the requirements for manual handling were minimised and so we arranged to hire a quad with a trailer. Using this vehicle, we were able to transport the equipment required to build the scaffolding structure to a convenient location near the site. As some of the tasks involved with the project were of a specialist nature, we sourced a range of special safety gear and equipment for our team to make sure that they could work safely.

Our expert team designed three separate drop scaffolds to facilitate the repairs to Aqueduct 35, installing them at designated points along its length. The scaffolds permitted the contractors who were carrying out the crucial repairs to gain safe, unrestricted access to the aqueduct.

The unique repair project, overseen by officials from the National Grid, involved finding solutions to a number of challenges, one of which was preventing the walls of the aqueduct from being subject to any pressure. To overcome this challenge, our team worked out a complex system using kentledges: this system uses weight to load-test piled foundations. Once the intricate details of the system were accurately ascertained, the team was able to construct the required scaffolding structures directly on the towpath adjacent to Aqueduct 35.

The vital repair work on Aqueduct 35 was able to progress rapidly with the help of our bespoke-designed scaffolds and was completed within the allotted time frame. After the repair work was complete, our team moved in to dismantle and remove the temporary scaffold structures, leaving the area clean and tidy.

This is just one example of a time when the expert team at Mitchell's Scaffolding was able to use their impressive knowledge, skills, and experience to design, install and finally remove a unique scaffold structure to meet the requirements of an equally unique project. Find out more about our work on Mitchell's Scaffolding website, where you can also request a free, no-obligation quote.

 

Choose Mitchell's for Superb Scaffolding

With construction being such a large, diverse and continuously-active industry, it is little surprise to find that there are a great number of companies offering to design, supply and install scaffolding structures. It's a crowded, competitive and often confused market. Among these thousands of options, what makes Mitchell's Scaffolding stand out from the rest? This edition of our blog will tell you all you need to know.

A unwavering dedication to achieving excellence and a powerful drive to be the best are the key qualities of Mitchell's Scaffolding and have been since our Managing Director Stuart Mitchell began working in the scaffolding trade at the age of 14. He founded the company single-handed, quickly acquiring a reputation for providing high quality service and expanding the business rapidly as a result.

Stuart has a number of plaudits and qualifications to his name, including a HND in Construction and Young Business Person of the Year. Under Stuart's strong and intelligent leadership, Mitchell's Scaffolding has also won many coveted awards, most notably the North West Regional Health and Safety Award, the highest accolade that can be awarded to a company of this type.

Safety is the absolute priority here at Mitchell's Scaffolding. Every process, procedure and working practice exceeds official required standards set out by the Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974 and the Construction Regulation of 1995, as well as those outlined by organisations like the Contractor's Health and Safety Assessment Scheme (CHAS), Simian Risk Management Ltd, Constructionline, Acclaim and the Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS).

We offer a full start-to-finish service, including bespoke design, installation, management and dismantling of scaffolding structures. We also provide a number of other access and containment solutions from temporary roofs to alloy access towers and staircases. Our work covers the industrial, commercial and private sectors and we have provided our bespoke solutions for the widest possible range of applications. From schools to supermarkets, from bars to bridges, from houses to hospitals and from churches to culverts: we've done it all and then some! Check out our portfolio on the website for details and images of some of the projects we have successfully completed.

These are just some of the reasons that you can chooe Mitchell's Scaffolding with absolute confidence. One last thing... our pricing structure is designed to be extremely competitive. Why not use our free 'Request a Quote' service and find out for yourself?

 

Evolution and Expansion: The Mitchell's Road to Success

Mitchell's Scaffolding is one of the North West's leading providers of bespoke scaffolding and access solutions, delivering our professional and comprehensive suite of services to clients in the industrial, commercial, municipal, public and private sectors all over the UK.

Our journey to where we are today began many years ago when Stuart Mitchell, our Managing Director, entered the scaffolding industry at just 14 years old. He worked for several different scaffolding companies in the region, learning everything about the trade in the process. Once this knowledge and experience was in place, Stuart set out on his own as a self-described 'one man band'. Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd was born.

Stuart's strong dedication to carrying out work of the highest quality saw his new company's reputation grow quickly. As the contracts kept flooding in, he hired carefully-chosen staff members and began the expansion of Mitchell's Scaffolding that continues to this day.

In 2011, Stuart's talent and hard work were recognised and rewarded when he fought off many strong competitors to win the University of Central Lancashire’s coveted Young Business Person of the Year Award. Just two years later, Stuart completed a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Construction, proving that he could offer his clients the very best knowledge in the scaffolding trade.

Today, Stuart is responsible for directing and overseeing all of the work carried out by both his scaffolding and administrative teams, as well as managing crucial aspects of the business such as organising training and maintaining Health and Safety procedures and policies. He retains the original passion for the physical side of scaffolding that first inspired him as a young boy and so he can often be found working on construction sites alongside his employees.

Year on year, the Mitchell's Scaffolding client base has grown and the company has developed correspondingly to cater to these new clients. In addition to continuously acquiring brand new components which are used to create state-of-the-art scaffolding solutions and access structures, Mitchell's Scaffolding has steadily increased its fleet of vehicles, constantly improving the company's ability and efficiency.

Check out the Mitchell's Scaffolding website to discover more about the leading company's background and continued expansion!

 

Stairs and Temporary Roofs

In addition to designing and building scaffolding structures, Mitchell's Scaffolding also offer a comprehensive, professional array of temporary access and containment solutions including temporary stairs and roofs.

Temporary Staircases

From the enhancement of productivity to the improvement of safety levels, temporary staircases from Mitchell's Scaffolding offer myriad benefits. Temporary staircases are particularly useful in the early stages of construction projects, providing a much safer alternative to standard ladders. We are able to exactly tailor our temporary staircases to meet the individual requirements of any given project and each staircase comes complete with handrails mounted at the correct safety specification.

Temporary Roofs

All construction projects are at the mercy of weather conditions which, in the UK, are notoriously unreliable. Rain and snow can put a halt to construction work, causing costly downtime and hindering target times. The problem of unreliable weather can be instantly solved with a temporary roof from Mitchell's Scaffolding.

We utilise the most modern roofing systems to create our temporary roofs. Whether the roof needs to be pitched, polygonal, mono-pitched, our dedicated and experienced team will create the right solution, regardless of the construction site's size or location. Protection is guaranteed and you can rest assured that every member of our team is fully qualified to deliver a reliable solution for your needs.

Whatever the access requirements of your project, Mitchell's Scaffolding can provide them. Our many years' of experience allow us to exactly tailor our service to meet your needs, allowing crucial work to progress rapidly and efficiently. You can ALWAYS rely on Mitchell's Scaffolding.

Check out our website to discover the full range of professional scaffolding and access services we provide, along with details of successful projects we have completed.

 

Superb Scaffolding at Rochdale College

With thousands of schools, colleges and universities all over the country, the UK is one of the best places in the world in which to receive high-quality education. It is essential that the buildings of educational establishments are maintained to an impeccable standard, providing a safe environment in which to work and learn. Mitchell's Scaffolding have designed and built scaffolding and access structures to facilitate such repair and maintenance work, including a large-scale project at Rochdale College.

The main Rochdale College building required major renovation, including extensive repairs to the structure's beams in order to restore structural integrity. Throughout the renovation works, which were scheduled to take place over several weeks, the college was to remain open and functioning as usual. This meant that, as well as designing and installing scaffolding to provide unrestricted access to building contractors, our team was also tasked with providing a safe, accessible route to the main campus for staff and students.

To ensure that students with disabilities could continue to safely access the site, we installed a temporary wheelchair ramp at the entrance of the building. This ramp had to span a sunken service road and so our team included a bespoke design in our plan.

Spanning the service road involved designing and installing a structure that was based on robust steel ladder beams; using smooth precession joints, these were boarded out with timber from the scaffold boards. We ensured that no tripping hazards were present and added a non-slip surface cover and handrails to further enhance safety.

Building work was able to start and proceed quickly thanks to cradle support which our team erected above the building's entrance. All of the many design elements were carefully devised and strictly adhered to, ensuring that they could be accurately linked together.

Our plan worked exactly as it was meant to, allowing building and renovation work to be carried out with minimal disruption to the students and staff at Rochdale College. Once the work was complete, our team moved in to dismantle the temporary structures, leaving the area clean, tidy and safe.

To find out more about our scaffolding work, check out the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding Keeps the Water Flowing...

Though it's easy to take our continuous supply of fresh water for granted, the fact is that there are countless complex logistics involved in the process. The water we use every day is made safe in purpose-designed treatment plants: when one of these plants, located in Slaidburn, required urgent repairs, Mitchell's Scaffolding were on hand to provide the scaffolding needed to give contractors safe, clear access.

The water that flows in and out of the treatment plant at Slaidburn is regulated by a valve. After providing many years of hassle-free service, the valve had become dysfunctional and replacement was the only option. To facilitate this replacement, our team had to design a bespoke load-bearing scaffolding structure, as well as installing a sturdy, reliable hoist that would lift out the damaged valve before being used to lower in the replacement.

Many different factors had to be taken into account when designing the bespoke scaffolding, such as the valve's position and the location of steel supporting plates in the floor. As the scaffold would be located in an area of high-frequency usage by staff at the plant, we included barrier, nipple caps and end caps in our design to enhance safety levels.

Upon completion of the scaffolding, the hoist was tested to ensure it was fit for purpose. The water supply was temporarily frozen and the old valve safely removed. Next, the new valve was lowered into place and connected before defrosting of the mains feed. As soon as the efficacy of the new valve was confirmed, our team quickly and efficiently dismantled the scaffolding structure we had built.

As disruption to water supply had to be kept to an absolute minimum, our team had to work to strict deadlines. To help us do this, we arranged pre-set installation and removal dates, as well as allowing for emergency cover if that had become necessary. From initial contact to completion of the project, just seven days were required thanks to our careful planning.

Find out more about our work in the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Apprenticeship trainee scaffolder

Apprenticeship trainee scaffolder
 

Are you looking for a challenge and the opportunity to develop a career in the scaffolding industry? Mitchells Scaffolding Ltd is offering the successful candidates the opportunity to join its apprenticeship trainee scaffolder programme over a two year period.
This exciting opportunity will enable successful candidates to gain valuable experience and skills working in a specialist industry whilst also undertaking an Apprenticeship to CISRS Scaffolder Standard Level 2. If you are compassionate, willing to learn, flexible and hardworking then we would like to hear from you.
A range of duties will include:-
• Servicing of Equipment Tube & Fittings
• Erection & Dismantling Scaffolding
• Loading & Unloading scaffolding from a lorry
• Knowledge of Equipment & Selection
 
How to apply – CONTACT DEBBIE 01254 392100 OR EMAIL
Hours per week – 40 HOURS THIS INCLUDES COLLEGE
Pay – WILL BE DISCUSSED IN INTERVIEW
 

Apprenticeship trainee scaffolder


Apprenticeship trainee scaffolder
 

Are you looking for a challenge and the opportunity to develop a career in the scaffolding industry? Mitchells Scaffolding Ltd is offering the successful candidates the opportunity to join its apprenticeship trainee scaffolder programme over a two year period.
This exciting opportunity will enable successful candidates to gain valuable experience and skills working in a specialist industry whilst also undertaking an Apprenticeship to CISRS Scaffolder Standard Level 2. If you are compassionate, willing to learn, flexible and hardworking then we would like to hear from you.
A range of duties will include:-
• Servicing of Equipment Tube & Fittings
• Erection & Dismantling Scaffolding
• Loading & Unloading scaffolding from a lorry
• Knowledge of Equipment & Selection
 
How to apply – CONTACT DEBBIE 01254 392100 OR EMAIL
Hours per week – 40 HOURS THIS INCLUDES COLLEGE
Pay – WILL BE DISCUSSED IN INTERVIEW
 

Bespoke Scaffolding Solution for Blackburn Library

The library is a central part of any community, offering free access to reading materials as well as internet access and a whole host of practical services. As most libraries have been established for many years, the buildings that house them are often old and as such require structural repairs to keep them safe and fit for use. Blackburn Central Library  is one such building and Mitchell's Scaffolding was proud to be contracted to install bespoke scaffolding as part of a renovation project called 'Back to the Future'.

For more than forty years, the building that now plays host to Blackburn Central Library was a busy department store. Half a century ago in 1970, the library was established there and the building was clad with concrete. Over time, erosion of this concrete cladding caused damage that eventually became so bad that lumps of masonry became loose, threatening to fall into the street below.

A project to remove the concrete cladding was authorised by council chiefs, who approached Mitchell's Scaffolding to design and build scaffolding to facilitate the crucial project. Our bespoke-designed scaffolding gave workers clear, safe access to the building's facade to remove the dangerous cladding and restore both the structure's safety and attractive aesthetic.

Damian Talbot is in charge of leisure at Blackburn with Darwen Council. Commenting on the removal of the concrete cladding, he said: "The scaffolding that has been on the central library for around 12 months is almost completely removed, and the majority of the stonework has been restored. This was a vital piece of investment, and what it did was give us an opportunity to restore the building to its original glory. The library is very important in the town, very well used and one of the busiest libraries in the north west, and it is a landmark building in Blackburn centre.”

It was a proud moment for our team when the scaffolding was dismantled and removed, allowing the library to reopen for business. The project coincided with the unveiling of new facilities within the library itself. Check out our online portfolio to learn about more of the crucial projects we have facilitated with our scaffolding and access solutions.

 

Successful Scaffolding for New Builds

There is a worrying lack of social housing in the UK and so it was with great pleasure that the Mitchell's Scaffolding team were able to facilitate the building of six new properties of this type. The project took place in nearby Chorley and required that a carefully-planned, bespoke scaffolding structure be put in place.

The project began as nothing more than three empty plots, each of which was to be the site of two brand-new semi-detached homes; all of the new properties was to be built using a timber-frame construction. Properties built using bricks require that scaffolding be installed in staggered phases to accommodate the bricklayers but, with timber-frame structures, the entire scaffolding structure must be erected at once.

Before any project that we undertake begins, we carry out thorough site inspections and liaise closely with the contractors concerned at in-depth pre-start meetings. One of the key issues that had to be addressed at one of these crucial meetings involved the actual location of the site, which was in close proximity to railway tracks. To ensure that contractors would be safe and that there would be no impediment to the smooth running of train services, we arranged to put additional fencing and brick guards in place.

Our team then built a bespoke, three-level scaffolding structure, which enclosed the first plot on all four sides. We also installed staircases to improve access at each level. As soon as the first scaffold was completed, the team continued to build similar scaffolds around the other two plots. The three scaffolds were linked with bridges, giving contractors the freedom to move safely between them as required.

Next followed the installation of loading bays, themselves followed by the erection of internal scaffolds which allowed contractors to work safely and efficiently on party walls. After some minor alterations to the roofs and checks for water-tightness, the scaffolds were dismantled and removed, completing the job.

Find out more about the scaffolds and other access structures designed and built by the Mitchell's Scaffolding team in the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Scaffolding Firm Fined £171k for Collapse

Formula Scaffolding (London) has been fined £160,000 and ordered to pay costs of over £11,500 after one of the company's scaffolding structures collapsed. Judges at High Wycombe Magistrates' Court handed down the hefty fine after Formula Scaffolding was found guilty of a breach of the Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974.

The scaffolding had been erected on a busy street in Maidenhead. When the scaffold was no longer required, a member of the company's workforce began removing the scaffold ties in order to begin dismantling the structure. With high winds in the area at the time, which were recorded as being in excess of 30mph, the monarflex sheeting on the scaffold acted like a wind sail, causing the scaffold to collapse and fall into the street below.

Immediately following the incident, which happened in April of 2018, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) launched an investigation. After this was carried out, the HSE ruled that the root cause of the collapse was 'a lack of training and adequate instruction'.

Commenting on the matter, HSE Inspector John Caboche said: "This was a very serious incident and it is fortunate nobody was injured as a result of it. Those in control of work have a responsibility to devise safe methods of working, ensure that their workforce is adequately trained and provide the necessary information, instruction and training to their workers in the safe system of working."

The Scaffolding Health and Safety Advisor at Simian Risk Management, Mike Dean, said: "Sadly, incidents such as this are all too common, when they are actually very simple to prevent. Any scaffold built to the appropriate standards by CISRS qualified Scaffolders can withstand the worst that the British weather can throw at it. Scaffolding incidents involving high wind can very often be attributed to poor work techniques and in reality, extreme weather just exploits weaknesses in the systems of work that have been applied.”<

Though carrying a valid CISRS/CSCS is not required by law at the present time, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd insist that all of our operatives do so; this is just one aspect of our ongoing commitment to safety. We also work closely with leading specialists and organisations in health and safety like Simian Risk Management, CHAS, ConstructionLine, Acclaim and the Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS).

To find out more about our work, please visit the 'Portfolio' and 'Credentials' sections of our website. Get in touch with our expert team if you need any further information or advice.

 

COVID-19 Lockdown: Work Continues at Mitchell's

Though many businesses have been forced to close during the UK's second national lockdown, Mitchell's Scaffolding team are continuing to work on essential construction projects. Naturally, our team are adhering rigidly to all government guidelines in the process.

Supporting the NHS is of paramount importance during these troubled times. Even before the pandemic began, our team has worked at a wide range of healthcare establishments, including a hospital near Blackpool in Lancashire.

The facade of the main building of Wesham Hospital had experienced issues with movement over a course of numerous years; these issues eventually became so bad that the facade began to pose a health and safety risk. To solve the dangerous issue, a remediation project was planned, including the shoring-up of the structure's external elements.

To allow safe, reliable and constant contractor access, Mitchell's Scaffolding team received a request to design and install a bespoke scaffolding structure. Work was scheduled to take up to a whole year and so our team also had to carry out regular inspections and maintenance work.

Designing, installing and maintaining the bespoke scaffolding solution presented many challenges; our expert team used their remarkable skills, knowledge and experience to ensure that these challenges were easily overcome. As requirements changed, our operatives were able to quickly alter the original scaffold design in response, giving acceptable clearance at the plinth of the damaged building.

A buttress that was subject to compressive loading needed lapped joints and so these were included. Further check fittings were installed after liaising with the head contractor and we photographed these to ensure approval was given. Secure fencing was erected right around the scaffolding to prevent unauthorised access and inspections were carried out weekly to ensure that this, along with the scaffold itself, remained secure.

Find out more about our bespoke scaffolding solutions on Mitchell's Scaffolding website. Stay safe!

 

Scaffolding: From Industry to Art

Scaffolding is purely a means to an end, erected on a temporary basis to facilitate the repair or building of a permanent structure. Or is it? A number of contemporary artists have challenged this idea, using scaffolding components to create stunning sculptural works that have no function other than to delight the viewer.

In this edition of the Mitchell's Scaffolding blog, we look at the work of two such artists: Ben Long and Jarrod Taylor.

Ben Long spent the early portion of his working life on various construction sites, before enrolling to study at London's famous Camberwell College of Art and Design. During his studies and after graduating, Long created artworks utilising industrial materials that clearly showed the profound influence of his previous work on construction sites.

It can be argued that the components of scaffolding are not beautiful things in and of themselves but the way that Long uses them makes them become beautiful. One example of this amazing metamorphosis is evident in Long's fantastic sculpture of a horse, which was made entirely from scaffolding components. Long perfectly captures the majestic qualities of the animal, creating an exceptional illusion of movement.

Jarrod Taylor's story is similar, in that he spent a number of years working as a professional scaffolder before embarking on a university course studying sculpture and fine art. After graduating, Taylor submitted a gravity-defying sculpture to Australia's 'Sculptures by the Sea' exhibition, which involves the displaying of many sculptures on the world-famous Bondi Beach. His sculpture, entitled 'Structural Wave', was one of the most critically-acclaimed at the event.

The following year, Taylor submitted an even more ambitious scaffolding sculpture to the same exhibition. Entitled 'Structural Wind' and standing at a massive 15 metres in height, the impressive sculpture appeared to be magically light thanks to Taylor's artistic skills at manipulating the industrial components.

Our operatives may not use scaffolding components to make art but their extensive training and dedication to the craft are directly comparable to that of these artists. You can find out more about our work on the Mitchell's Scaffolding website. To receive more articles and features like this, along with case studies, industry news and more, please subscribe to our regular newsletter.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding for Housing Renewal Program

Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd were proud to be awarded a rolling contract to supply, erect and subsequently dismantle bespoke scaffolding structures to improve housing stock in the Lancashire area. The Local Authority Renewal Program involved repairs and renovations to up to ten properties at a single time, bringing them up to meet new standards for housing structures.

Lancashire's Local Authority Renewal Program involved a significant number of properties located in the Great Yarwood and Huncoat areas. The properties selected for renovation, which included everything from bungalows to buildings of up to four storeys in height, required extensive repair and renovation works such as replacing chimneys and renewing damaged render.

Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd were contracted to design and install scaffolding to these structures, giving contractors safe and easy roofline access to carry out the necessary work. After the work is completed at a property, our operatives quickly dismantled the scaffolding before re-erecting it at the following property. This was carried out extremely efficiently in order to prevent any costly downtime and allow the ongoing project to continue rapidly.

As a large number of the properties scheduled for renovation incorporated gables within their structure, our expert team of operatives installed working table lifts to facilitate the process. To improve safety for contractors and prevent falls when working on non-rendered properties, our team also installed double handrail edges. Pedestrians passing below were protected from the potential of falling debris with the installation of dedicated gantries and double-roe boards, which were included in each bespoke scaffold design.

Find out more about the scaffolding and access solutions we have created and supplied in the 'Portfolio' section of the Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd website.

 

Superb Scaffolding Solutions for Robust Roof Repairs!

October looks set to break plenty of weather records, with long-range forecasters predicting temperatures much higher than average, which will, in turn, cause heavy rain and more unsettled weather in their wake. The combination means that it is the ideal time for roof repairs and Mitchell's Scaffolding is ideally placed to provide the necessary scaffolding and access solutions.

The unseasonable weather will be caused by a 'heat plume' which will originate over the Atlantic Ocean before being swept towards the UK. There will also be a high-pressure system coming in from the south during the early part of next month. Together, these systems will bring plenty of sunshine and warmer-than-average weather, creating the perfect environment for those working outdoors.

High temperatures dramatically increase the chance of storms and heavy rainfall to follow. As a roof is the first line of a property's defence against the elements, it is essential that any necessary repairs are carried out quickly and so contractors should be ready for the influx of jobs that will arise. Mitchell's Scaffolding can quickly supply, install and subsequently remove any necessary scaffolding and access equipment required to make sure that such jobs can be safely and rapidly carried out.

With over two decades of practical experience, Mitchell's Scaffolding is one of the most reputable and highly-renowned scaffolding companies around and we guarantee that we will never be knowingly beaten on price or quality. Our operatives have been cherry-picked for their experience, knowledge and dedication and each and every member of our team carry a valid, up-to-date CSCS/CISRS card for your peace of mind.

We invite you to browse Mitchell's Scaffolding website to find out all the details about our company and the services we provide. You can also look at many examples of previous projects that we have carried out. Whatever the project and whatever the weather, you can trust Mitchell's Scaffolding to deliver 100% satisfaction every time.

 

Depot Mayfield Project: From Scaffolding to Seating!

The Mitchell's Scaffolding team recently completed an unusual project in Manchester at the city's Depot Mayfield events venue. The venue's managers contracted us to design and create a brand-new seating area that will allow events to go ahead as planned in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Depot Mayfield is a venue with plenty of history, having been built in 1910 for use as a railway yard at Manchester's iconic Mayfield station. Though suffering extensive damage after being hit by a parachute mine during the Second World War, the depot continued serving Manchester's main train station until it finally closed to passengers in 1960.

Depot Mayfield continued operating as the lead mail distribution depot for the Royal Mail after it closed to passengers, a position it held for a further 18 years. Sadly, Depot Mayfield then closed and remained that way for nearly 30 years. It was then totally transformed into a multi-use performance and events space as part of a £1billion regeneration scheme and has since become a leading destination for Greater Manchester, located right in the heart of the city.

Depot Mayfield can accommodate no less than 10,000 guests at full capacity and boasts an extensive, diverse programme of music, arts, culture, community and industrial events. The venue has hosted many large-scale commissions including the Manchester International Festival, Manchester Pride and the Warehouse Project.

To create the new seating area, our operatives began by using our scaffolding poles to create a multi-tiered structure, which was then overlaid with large planks of quality timber. Once these were in place, they were painted in a beautiful rainbow of colours to complete the new area. The managers of Depot Mayfield were so pleased with the results that they have asked us to return in the near future to build similar new seating areas.

Check out the 'Portfolio' section of our website to see pictures of the new seating area being built along with the finished results! You can also discover many more case studies of our work in this section.

 

Superstars of Scaffolding! Mitchell's Scaffolding

The team here at Mitchell's Scaffolding are cherry-picked for their unmatched levels of knowledge, experience and dedication. Though they may not be household names, we rightly consider each and every one of them to be a superstar! In this edition of our blog, we're going to reveal five people with amazing scaffolding skills who hit it big.

  • Michelangelo. We travel back well over 500 years for our first entry; the famous artist who is perhaps best known for painting the ceiling of Italy's Sistine Chapel. The iconic ceiling covers a massive 573 square metres and rises up to almost 13.5 metres above the chapel's floor. How did Michelangelo get up to this height to carry out his exquisite painting? You guessed it: he designed and built his very own scaffolding structure.
  • Paul Hogan. Best known to the world as the actor who portrayed 'Crocodile Dundee' in the film with the same name, Australian-born Paul Hogan started his working life in the scaffolding trade. Before he got his big break, Hogan was a skilled and well-respected scaffolder, working on high-profile projects including one at Sydney's famous Harbour Bridge.
  • Carl Cox. At just 16 years old, Carl Cox began training as a scaffolder in London, though always had a passion for music. This passion was turned into a globally-successful career and Cox is now one of the most well-known DJs on the planet.
  • Matt Skelton. Also known as 'The Bedford Banger', Matt Skelton gave up a promising career in scaffolding to focus all of his attention on martial arts and kickboxing. Winning fight after fight, Skelton quickly rose up the ranks and was a professional fighter for more than 10 years before retiring. 
  • Adrian Chiles. Now a versatile and well-recognised TV presenter, Adrian Chiles was born into the construction trade, as his father owned a successful scaffolding business. He was fully trained in the art of scaffolding but decided that he was more into sports and decided to become a radio sports reporter.

Our team is just as dedicated to their work and we invite you to browse our website to discover some of the many projects they have successfully completed. Want to receive more special features like this, along with lots of other news and updates from Mitchell's? Simply subscribe to receive our regular newsletter.

 

Upstairs & Downstairs: The Record-Breakers!

With social-distancing and self-isolation guidelines still very much in effect due to the coronavirus pandemic, operatives from Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are currently only undertaking emergency work. If, like us, you've got extra time on your hands and need a bit of cheering up, then this edition of our blog should help.
 

One of the key services at Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd is the provision of temporary stairs, which facilitate safe, easy access to all kinds of contractors working on all kinds of construction and renovation projects. While the work of such contractors is serious business, there are plenty of wild, wacky and wonderful folk who use them for very different purposes. Check out these record-breakers but please don't try recreating them at home (or at work!).

Most Stairs Climbed While Juggling

In June of 2019, Christian Roberto López Rodríguez from Spain climbed a total of 2,082 stairs while simultaneously keeping three juggling balls in the air.
 

Most Stairs Climbed While Balancing a Person on the Head

With friend Joel Yaicate Saavedra balanced atop his head, Pablo Nonato Panduro managed to climb 97 consecutive stairs in October of 2018.

Most Stairs Climbed on the Head

China's Li Longlong broke his own record of 34 stairs climbed while standing on his head, managing another two stairs to bring his record-breaking total to 36.

Most Stairs Descended in a Wheelchair

Haki Achille Doku from Italy achieved this impressive feat, descending a remarkable total of 2,917 consecutive stairs in just one hour.

Most Stairs Descended by a Slinky

Marty Jopson and Hugh Hunt, both from the UK, jointly hold this title, which stands unchallenged at 30 stairs since the record was set by the pair in February of 2014. If you think that 30 doesn't seem that high a total then this is one record that you definitely CAN try at home - all you need is a Slinky and a staircase! We'd love to see pictures of your attempts...

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Disruption-Free Scaffolding Services

The ongoing outbreak of coronavirus means that staff at Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are currently unable to work. This is just one element of the widespread disruption caused by the pandemic. It's a good job that our work doesn't cause such issues: here we look at two projects completed by our staff that were designed to  prevent major disruption to public services, even though carried out to a strictly limited timeframe.

Burnley Water Treatment Plant

Extensive repair work on this crucial water treatment plant was required to fix flues, pipes and a low-level roof. Working in close conjunction with the client, our team designed the ideal scaffolding structure that would allow contractors to complete the necessary repairs in as short a period of time as safely possible. In addition to this scaffolding structure, our team erected a gated tower to improve access and site security. A double-sided walkway was installed across the structure and the perimeter of an adjacent building, with secure handrails added to enhance safety.

Blackburn Train Station

Blackburn Train Station is an always-busy transport hub and so, when essential building work in the station's foyer was required, it had to be completed as quickly as possible with minimal disruption. Our team was therefore contracted to work only between 11pm and 5am when the station is closed to the public. A massive crash deck, both plyboarded and sheeted, was installed to isolate the area beneath which the construction work was required. This ensured that other contractors passing beneath were protected from potential falling debris.

This diverse pair of projects highlights the versatility of scaffolding provided by Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd. You can discover more of our work in the 'Portfolio' section of our website. To stay up to date with all the latest news from Mitchell's, please subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook.

 

Temporary Stair Solutions from Mitchell's

Part of our professional collection of scaffolding services involves supplying temporary staircases and stair towers. These are designed to deliver many benefits, from enhancing safety to improving productivity.

Temporary staircases are in constant demand, giving a rapid, safe and economical method of access in an extensive range of working environments. One of the largest benefits is the improvement of health and safety, preventing the need for site personnel to use ladders in a construction project's early stages. Temporary staircases from Mitchell's are provided complete with strong handrails, further improving safety levels.

We use the strongest, most robust materials to manufacture our temporary staircases and towers. This ensures that they are totally safe to use whatever working conditions. Suitable for both short and long term projects, temporary stairs from Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are guaranteed to deliver complete satisfaction wherever and whenever they are used.

Rapidly erected, temporary stair solutions from Mitchell's eliminate costly downtime and each staircase is tailored by our experts to meet exact requirements. We employ the most dedicated, highly trained and certified installers so that our clients can feel certain that they are receiving superior service from start to finish.

Find out more about our temporary staircases and stair towers on the website. To discuss bespoke requirements, simply contact a member of our skilled customer service team.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding: You Can Bank On Mitchell's!

The diverse scope of work carried out by Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd sees us travelling all over the UK but a significant proportion of the projects we design scaffolding structures for takes place in and around the local area of Lancashire.

One of these projects involved the design and installation of a scaffold structure that enabled access for crucial roof repairs to an HSBC bank building located in Accrington.

The branch of the HSBC is situated on Blackburn Road,  a busy and populous thoroughfare nearby to Accrington's town centre: the nature of the location meant that public access would be required continuously throughout the duration of the repairs.

Before work commenced, we liaised with the local authority to arrange for relevant scaffolding permits to be issued:  these were provided for an initial duration of three weeks with an option for a time extension if necessary.

Our scaffolding wagons were parked close to the site, paying strict attention to the working barriers to ensure total safety. While the scaffolding was erected, pedestrian access to nearby footpaths was diverted. After the scaffold was complete, the footpaths were reopened, with clearly marked walkways running below the platforms.

One of the unique challenges presented by this project was the need to design and build a scaffolding structure that would take into account an extremely narrow alleyway (further narrowed by the scaffold structure itself) at the rear elevation of the HSBC branch. Our team of experienced operatives were easily able to overcome this challenge and the repair work was completed on schedule and without incident.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding for Specialist Repair Project

A significant proportion of the projects to which we have supplied scaffolding services have entailed renovation and repair to structures in which people work and live. On other occasions, our work facilitates the repair and renovation of buildings and structures which, though they are uninhabited, are crucial parts of our country's infrastructure. One of these types of projects was carried out at Aqueduct 35 in nearby Colne.

Manual handling requirements had to be kept to a manageable minimum and so the Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd team arranged for the hire of a quad and trailer: these were utilised to transport our scaffold equipment safely and efficiently to the site. To ensure that all of our operatives were fully- and properly-equipped to carry out some of the specialist tasks involved with the project, all team members were kitted out with the appropriate safety clothing and equipment.

In total, three individual drop scaffolds were designed and installed by our team, each structure located at a critical point along the length of Aqueduct 35. Via these carefully-built drop scaffolds, contractors working on the aqueduct could easily, quickly and above all safely gain access to the structure and carry out the vital repairs.

Overseen in its entirety by representatives of the National Grid, the scaffolding installation and subsequent repair of Aqueduct 35 presented many challenges to our team. One of these was the need to prevent any pressure being placed on the structure's walls; to achieve this complex feat, expert operatives from Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd designed a system incorporating kentledges (a system of weights used to load-test piled foundations), allowing the scaffold to be constructed directly on the adjacent tow path.

Check out the 'Portfolio' section of our website to find out more about the many different types of projects facilitates by Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding: Two Case Studies

At Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd, we offer a complete, reliable and professional suite of scaffolding services. The diverse scope of the work this entails is reflected in the diversity of the projects we are contracted to complete: here we look at two totally different but equally crucial projects that we have completed.

Bespoke Scaffolding: Two Case StudiesWesham Hospital, Kirkham

When chronic movement issues affected the facade of Wesham Hospital's main building, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd were contracted to design and implement a bespoke scaffolding solution: the structure would allow workers to complete a remedial shoring-up project to prevent further movement.

The shoring-up work was projected to take up to 12 months and so the design of our scaffolding structure had to be substantial. Our expert team worked out the best plan and quickly implemented it, allowing contractors to begin work immediately. Weekly inspections were carried out throughout the project to ensure everything was in order: unauthorised access was prevented with robust fencing.

Bespoke Scaffolding: Two Case StudiesSt Mary's College, Blackburn

St Mary's College, located in a residential area, required extensive repointing to the chimney stack and facade, necessitating a temporary scaffolding solution. To meet complex contractor requirements, our team constructed scaffolding in three phases, erecting hoardings and debris netting as required to ensure safety to both contractors and the public.

Fixings were not required to be continually removed and reattached, thanks to an integral gated entry point that our expert team incorporated into the bespoke scaffold structure design.

Wherever the structure is and whatever the project may involve, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd have got the right scaffolding solution. Browse our portfolio to see more examples of the diverse work we do and get in touch with our team for information and advice.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding for Flood Protection

The recent storms that have battered the UK with gale-force winds and heavy rainfall have caused numerous floods. Flooding is a serious issue that affects properties all over the country and so providing adequate protection is essential: Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd have provided scaffolding solutions to a number of flood protection projects, one of which was at Follyclough Brook in nearby Rossendale.

A 70m stretch of Follyclough Brook runs directly behind a row of houses. Heavy rainfall creates a run-off from the brook, which can cause flooding to the privately-owned properties. A wall designed to prevent this from happening had become so damaged over time that it was condemned to demolition, with plans put in place to build a new, stronger protective wall.

After the demolition and rebuild plans were finalised, operatives from Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd created a bespoke scaffolding design to allow access for contractors to complete the work. The scaffold structure was quickly built but had to be removed just as quickly due to extremely harsh weather conditions, preventing any debris from becoming trapped on the bracing and upright standing in the brook's bed.

Three days later, the weather conditions became less intense and the scaffolding was returned into place. Work on the demolition and subsequent rebuilding of the floor protection wall then began in earnest, with the completion date scheduled for between three and four weeks later. Our operatives remained on standby throughout in case of more inclement weather.

Work was completed without further incident and the scaffolding then removed. The houses close to Follyclough Brook are now protected from flooding and the residents are extremely happy with the results.

Find out more about our bespoke scaffolding work on our website.

 

International Scaffolding Championship: Dates Confirmed

The second International Scaffolding Championship (ISC) is scheduled to take place in April this year. The competition, organised by the Baltic Scaffolding Association (BSA), will now happen annually, following the unprecedented success of the first ever ISC event last year.

System scaffolders from all over Europe are preparing to take part in ISC 2020, competing against one another in a closely-monitored challenge. Though exact details of this year's challenge are yet to be revealed, it is thought that it will be similar to ISC 2019, in which teams had to safely erect and then dismantle a specially-designed freestanding scaffold structure. The nine competing teams (representing Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Russia) were up against the clock, with just two hours to complete the challenge before industry experts judged the results.

At ISC 2019, Lithuanian company HOTREMA took the coveted first place award, closely followed by Estonia's Adelante Tellingud in second place and Poland's ARAD in third. Commenting on ISC 2019, BSA's head of Training Žaneta Baltreniene said: "The championships were a big challenge: to have nine teams from five different neighbouring countries and to make everything run smoothly was not easy. We are proud to host such an event for the first time in Baltic states.”

Registration for ISC 2020 is now open to any six-person team with knowledge and experience of using the Layher Allround System. The event will take place on April 24th 2020 in Vilnius, Lithuania.

For updates from the ISC 2020, along with lots of other industry news, case studies and special features, please subscribe to receive the Mitchell's Scaffolding newsletter. You can also follow us on Facebook.

 

Mental Health Training: New Funding Pot from NASC

The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has set up a fund designed improve access to mental health first aid training. Giving its members the chance to claim up to £125 towards the cost of a mental health training course, the £30,000 pot has been created in conjunction with NASC's Head for Heights campaign.

The Head for Heights campaign was set up with the intention of attacking the stigma that surrounds mental health, while simultaneously promoting a focus on the mental wellbeing of employees in the workplace. Speaking about the trade body's new fund, NASC president Lynn Way said: "The £30,000 funding pot will help pay for nearly 250 NASC member employees to complete a mental health first aid course. This will go a long way to improving awareness and understanding of mental health and wellbeing issues in the workplace and enable NASC members to better support their employees if and when they need to.

The Head for Heights campaign recently produced SG38:19, which contains lots of information and guidance relating to mental health in the workplace. As well as highlighting a range of useful services, the guide also contains mental health-focused toolbox talk and suggestions for proactive steps that employers can take to improve the mental health of their employees.

The creation of the new fund comes just one month after the NASC confirmed a fund of £150,000 dedicated to upskilling and training for former servicemen and women. There are currently five mental health first aid courses that are covered by the NASC's £30,000 funding pot. The courses are provided by St John Ambulance, LTC Training Services, 3B Training, MHFA England and the British Safety Council.

Stay up to date on all the latest news from the scaffolding sector by subscribing to receive our regular, feature-packed newsletter.

 

CISRS: New Smart Cards Delayed

For over 40 years, the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) has been the industry leader in the field of scaffolding training. Around 60,000 registered CISRS cardholders in the UK are waiting to receive a new smart card from the organisation but this has been delayed until mid-February.

The new CISRS smart cards were scheduled to be in production this month, following NOCN's takeover from the CITB. Using Near-Field Communication (NFC), the same technology that enables contactless card payments, the new CISRS smart cards will enable the cardholder's information (details like name, photo, endorsements and training details) to be immediately displayed on any NFC-enabled device.

The delay in production of new CISRS smart cards has been blamed on a 'change of IT systems'.  Extra staff have been employed to deal with the growing backlog of CISRS applications and non-smart cards have been issued in the interim: these cards will be replaced free of charge with a smart card when they become available and the new system is functional. The CISRS has issued a helpline number (0844 815 7223) that employers can call if they wish to check on the current CISRS status of any individual.

Though being in possession of a current CISRS card is not required by law by scaffolders, it IS required by Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd and all of our operatives are guaranteed to be part of the CISRS. This enables us to ensure that all work carried out by our company is safe, efficient and reliable.

Find out all about our scaffolding services and other access solutions on the website and subscribe to our newsletter for updates on the CISRS smart card situation, along with lots of other articles and features.

 

Scaffolding Safety this Winter and Beyond

As more workplace accidents tend to happen during the winter months due to the dangers presented by extreme weather, it's an ideal time to be focusing on safety at work. People working at height remain the most at-risk group when it comes to workplace injuries and fatalities and that's why safety (that of our staff, our clients, their contractors and the general public alike) is our absolute number-one priority here at Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd.

Though the number of people working at height who have suffered injuries and fatalities is still a cause for concern, things are much better today when compared with the way they were just a few decades ago. Actions that today would be considered absolutely unacceptable (for example balancing across scaffolding bars, not using supporting equipment, not wearing relevant PPE) were routine practices in the past: all that began to change when government agency the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) introduced the first Health & Safety at Work Act in 1974.

The Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 provided a robust system that, when properly adhered to, would optimise health and safety in the workplace by providing recognised codes of practice and guidelines for working conditions. Immediately successful, the act continued to reduce workplace fatalities from injury over the years; by 2005, such fatalities had been reduced by a massive 86%. 2005 saw the implementation of official Working at Height Regulations, which remain the current laws that must be adhered to by all employers and/or managers who require their employees to work at a height.

Together, the guidelines, recommendations and requirements contained within these pieces of legislation have dramatically reduced the number of accidents and fatalities among people working at a height. Here at Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd, we believe this number can be reduced even further by introducing legislation that would make carrying a CISRS/CSCS card a legal requirement for scaffolders working in the UK.

Though not required by law, a valid CISRS/CSCS card is certainly required by anyone wishing to join the cherry-picked team at Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd. We employ only those who can demonstrate that they are skilled, competent and dedicated, allowing our clients complete peace-of-mind when choosing our company to provide bespoke scaffolding and access solutions.

Find out more about our work in the 'Portfolio' section of our website and get in touch with our experts directly if you have any further questions. Want to be a part of our innovative team? Check out the 'Careers' page.

 

Scaffolding Structures: From Ancient to Modern

As scaffolding is so closely linked to industry, it is easy to make the mistake of thinking that it is a relatively new invention. In fact, the history of scaffolding structure can be traced back more than 17 millennia, though materials and working practices have changed dramatically in this time, the basic concept remains unchanged: this shows just how versatile and successful it really is.

17,000 years ago, palaeolithic tribes painted scenes from their daily lives on the walls of caves in Lascaux, in what is now France. The painters gained access to the high ceilings of the caves using a scaffold structure, which is evidenced by wall sockets. Scaffolding structures were later used in cultures all over the world; made using timber, the structures were held together using a knotted rope.

In more modern times, the work of David Henry Jones and Daniel Palmer-Jones revolutionised scaffolding: the pair invented the 'Scaffixer', a coupling device that was much stronger and more reliable than knotted ropes. The Scaffixer was used successfully for the first time in the reconstruction of Buckingham Palace back in 1913. A few years later, the improved 'Universal Coupler' was launched and, to this day, remains the industry standard.

Advances in metallurgy soon saw timber poles being replaced by tubular steel pipes. With standardised dimensions and diagonal bracings, these pipes allowed for greater interchangeability of parts and also improved the structural stability of scaffolding structures.

Today, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd utilise the most modern equipment and working practices to ensure that our scaffolding solutions are as safe and effective as possible. Our operatives, all of whom carry CISRS/CSCS cards, are highly skilled and provide our clients with the most professional suite of services.

To find out more about our services, check out the website or get in touch with our expert team.

 

Join our Superlative Scaffolding Team

Would YOU like to work with the close-knit, friendly and extremely capable Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd team? We are looking for talented, dedicated and experienced Part 2 and Advanced Scaffolders and Drivers at our Accrington yard. As safety of both employees and the public is our number-one priority, we insist that all such operatives carry an up to date CSCS (Construction Skills Certificate Scheme) or CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) card.

The impressive Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd reputation has been built on trust: our clients know that the work we so will be carried out to the most professional standard. That's why we insist that our operatives have a CSCS/CISRS card, even though it isn't a legal requirement here in the UK. Possessing such a card lets us know that our operatives are as knowledgeable and competent as they can be.

The CISRS is the industry leader when it comes to scaffold training; in fact it is 'the preferred scaffolding qualification of all the major organisations including CSCS, NASC, HSE, Build UK, UNITE and the largest scaffold systems manufacturers'. In the UK alone, there are more than 60,000 CISRS cardholders, with a further 5,000 cardholders in different countries around the world.

Working across the spectrum of the construction industry, the CSCS delivers a number of training schemes and qualifications. Once fully trained and qualified, atendees of the courses are granted the right to carry a CSCS crad, proving their knowledge and competency.

Find out more about our current vacancies on our website. To receive updates of new vacancies, along with lots of other news and features from Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd, please subscribe to our regular newsletter.

 

Scaffolding Solutions: Blackburn Central Library

The library is a hub of the community, providing free access to literature of all kinds along with free internet access and a range of other useful and educational public services. Many libraries have been established for decades, meaning that the buildings they are housed in often require structural repairs: one such facility is Blackburn Central Library, which required extensive scaffolding to complete a project entitled 'Back to the Future'.

For four decades, the building that now houses Blackburn Central Library was a department store. The library itself was established in 1970, at which time the facade of the building was clad in concrete, a common structural 'improvement' at the time. Over the years, the ugly concrete cladding eroded, with damage becoming so bad that there was a risk of masonry lumps falling into the street below.

Council bosses authorised a project to remove the cladding and Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd were contracted to design and deliver a bespoke scaffolding solution. This enabled workers to gain unobstructed access to the facade of the building and safely remove the concrete, restoring the magnificent structure to its former glory.

Damian Talbot, who is in charge of leisure for Blackburn with Darwen council, said that he was 'delighted' with the removal of the concrete cladding. He said, “The scaffolding that has been on the central library for around 12 months is almost completely removed, and the majority of the stonework has been restored. This was a vital piece of investment, and what it did was give us an opportunity to restore the building to its original glory. The library is very important in the town, very well used and one of the busiest libraries in the north west, and it is a landmark building in Blackburn centre.”

The expert operatives from Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd were proud to be involved with this crucial project, which was timed to coincide with a revamp of the library's facilities. Find out more about previous projects that Mitchell's have provided scaffolding to by checking out our online portfolio.

 

Temporary Stair Solutions: Safe and Effective

Our comprehensive collection of scaffolding services includes the provision of temporary stair towers and staircases. From enhancing productivity to improving safety, these structures offer many benefits to contractors.

The demand for safe, robust temporary stairs is increasing and Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd is ideally placed to provide them. They deliver a reliable, cost-effective, safe and rapid method of access in all types of situations, particularly in the opening stages of a construction project where they negate the need to use ladders, thus dramatically enhancing safety. Sturdy handrails further augment this quality.

Temporary stair solutions from Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are made using materials of the utmost quality, making them safe and effective regardless of weather and other working conditions. Guaranteed to provide 100% satisfaction in whatever application they are used, our temporary staircases and stair towers are suitable for projects of any duration.

Every temporary stair solutions provided by Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd can be exactly tailored to meet bespoke requirements. They are quickly and simply erected and dismantled, preventing any costly downtime and allowing work to proceed rapidly. All of our installers are trained and certified, ensuring complete peace-of-mind is guaranteed when it comes to safety and efficiency.

Find out more about our temporary staircases and stair towers on the website. To discuss bespoke requirements, simply contact a member of our skilled customer service team.

 

Scaffolding Solutions for Winter Weather

Autumn this year has so far been characterised by gale-force winds and heavy rainfall, both of which are predicted to increase in ferocity as the season continues. This bad weather has already caused plenty of structural damage around the UK, with roofs being affected the most. Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are expert suppliers of bespoke scaffolding structures and other access solutions designed to facilitate roofing contractors in repairing this damage and protecting roofs against future bad weather.

Scaffold Supply, Hire and Erection

With an extensive collection of scaffolding components such as tubes, boards and fittings, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd is able to design and erect bespoke scaffold structures of any size, to any specification and in any location. Our scaffolds enable roofing contractors to gain secure, easy access to damaged roofs, ensuring that their work can be carried out to the most professional standard. In addition to the scaffolding itself, we can also supply access and safety solutions including gates, ladders, chutes, props and debris nets.

Temporary Roofs

The bad weather that causes the initial roof damage can also hinder repairs, preventing vital repair and construction work from being carried out in a safe and timely manner. A temporary roof designed and implemented by our skilled team of operatives can allow work to continue unhindered whatever the weather is like. We are experts at designing bespoke temporary roofs to suit any size and shape of structure.

Alloy Access Towers

The last word in flexible mobility, alloy access towers from Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are extremely versatile, suited to a wide range of maintenance, renovation and construction applications. Erected in minutes, the towers are mounted on robust castor wheels to enhance their versatility.

These are just some of the professional scaffolding services and equipment available at Mitchell's. Browse our website to discover more.

 

Scaffolding Services for Fast Food!

Even in this era of body-consciousness and healthy eating, there are still plenty of us who enjoy a fast food meal from time to time. There are plenty of fast food restaurants to choose from on the high street but one of the most popular is Nando's, a fast-growing chain with well over 1,000 branches. Our operatives were recently called upon to design and install scaffolding at one of these branches.

Though Nando's is a relatively recent newcomer to fast food fame, the company was actually founded in 1987. South African friends Robert Brozin and Fernando Duarte so enjoyed a chicken meal at a local takeaway that they decided to purchase the outlet there and then. An instant success, Nando's began appearing at more locations, reaching the UK back in 1992. Today, more than 8,000 people are employed by the company in the UK alone.

A significant amount of repairs and renovation work was required at Nando's in Cheetham Hill, just outside Manchester city centre in the busy Fort Street Retail Park. The owners got in touch with Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd with a request for us to design and implement a scaffolding solution to facilitate these repairs.

After a site visit to exactly determine the relevant parameters, our operatives erected the scaffold exactly according to our bespoke design. The repair work progressed quickly, with no disruption to either the ordinary operation of Nando's or any of the surrounding businesses in the retail park.

The repair work is now completed and the scaffolding has been dismantled and removed without a trace. To celebrate, our operatives enjoyed a well-deserved (and very tasty!) meal at the newly refurbished building.

Find out more about our work on our website.

 

Temporary Roofs: We've Got You Covered

When it comes to construction work, there are countless variables that can affect how well and how quickly it progresses. Though many of these variables can be controlled, the one that definitely can't be is the weather, which cannot be relied upon and can dramatically affect productivity.

What is the best way to solve the problem? The answer is simple: a temporary roof covering that will protect the site from inclement weather. As autumn progresses and winter waits in the wings, the threat of bad weather looms ever larger but Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are expert providers of temporary roof constructions.

The UK has already experienced plenty of heavy rain and more is predicted as the seasons begin to change once again. Rainfall like this at the very least slows down construction work and, if it gets too heavy, can cause the site to be shut down entirely, hindering target times and causing costly standing time. A temporary roof structure instantly negates these problems.

No matter what the size of the construction site or where it is located, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd can quickly design and install an effective, engineered temporary roofing solution. By making use of the most up to date tools, materials and methods, we can guarantee to provide an ideal solution, ensuring that protection and containment are delivered according exactly to bespoke requirements.

As with every project that we work on, health and safety are our top priorities when installing a temporary roof. Each of our operatives carries a current CSCS card, proving their knowledge and capability to carry out the most professional job. For more information about how a temporary roof could enable your project continue throughout any weather condition, get in touch with our team today.

 

Mitchell's Scaffolding Projects: Bespoke Temporary Bridge

The recent heavy rain has necessitated the strengthening and/or repair of many structures, including bridges over flooded rivers and streams. Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are experts at providing bespoke structures designed to facilitate such work, as evidenced by the successful completion of a project at Pownall Bridge in Cheshire.

Pownall Bridge is built from stone which has weathered the years extremely well. When repairs to ensure that the bridge was still sound were proposed, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd were approached to design and build a temporary bridge across the stream below. This temporary structure had to strongly support the weight of pedestrians, as well as that of people riding horses.

Good access to the site allowed our operatives to park their vehicles much closer than originally anticipated, saving them a lot of heavy work manually carrying components over a long distance. Gravel tracks were laid down to direct pedestrians to the temporary bridge crossing.

Railway sleepers were used at the foundations, ensuring the strongest possible base from which to work. At each elevation over the stream, twin beams were installed. To allow a smooth transition between the gravel walkway and the level of the bridge, one end of the platform was installed at a slight angle.

As the temporary bridge approached completion, our operatives carefully installed guards and handrails to ensure safety. To further enhance safety levels and prevent any injuries to pedestrians or horses crossing the bridge, all of the fittings were securely covered with protective caps.

Creating such bespoke structures is the Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd speciality. All of our operatives are trained to the highest level and fully certified, ensuring that safe, successful and professional results are achieved every time. Find out more about our work on the website.

 

Scaffolding Enhances Lancashire's Local Authority Renewal Program

The Local Authority Renewal Program was created to improve the quality of Lancashire's existing housing stock. Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd were awarded a rolling contract to supply scaffolding structures to the crucial project, which sees up to ten properties at a time being renovated to bring them up to exacting modern standards.

A large number of properties in the Huncoat and Great Harwood areas were selected for renovation as part of the Local Authority Renewal Program. focusing on the repair and replacement of chimneys as well as extensive removal and render work. Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd designed and installed scaffolding structures to give contractors safe, unrestricted roofline access to the properties, which ranged from bungalows to homes up to four storeys in height.

A significant proportion of the properties incorporated gables: these properties required the installation of working lifts. The safety levels of the scaffolds installed at non-rendered structures was enhanced with the addition of a double handrail edge. To protect people passing below from potential falling debris, double-roe boards and gantries were included as part of our bespoke scaffold designs.

As the work to each property is completed, our operatives dismantle the scaffolding before re-erecting it at the next property scheduled for renovation. The Local Authority Renewal Program is ongoing and Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are proud to continue supplying the necessary scaffolding infrastructure.

Find out more about our work in the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Bespoke Suspended Scaffolding Improves Workplace Safety

Health & Safety in the workplace is of paramount importance. One of the biggest dangers in any workplace is that posed by the risk of fire: one of the first lines of defence against a blaze is a sprinkler system. When one such system was proposed at a food production factory, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd was called upon to design and implement a suspended scaffolding structure.

Based in Scunthorpe, the premises of Two Sisters Food Group comprises a large central warehouse as well as areas dedicated to maintenance and administration. Though part of an extensive refurbishment project, the new sprinkler system was the most major aspect and the work was scheduled to be carried out in two distinct phases.

Operatives from Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd decided that the massive scale of the project, along with the way in which the scaffolding structure was to be positioned, meant that aluminium tubing was the best option. The first phase involved erecting scaffold around a doorway used by forklift trucks, ensuring that complete operational access was maintained.

An opening was specifically created to allow our operatives to freely move scaffolding kit into the roof space; all of the scaffolding tubing was lifted manually. Before assembly could begin, the equipment first had to be transferred to the required area, involving a considerable distance which was the equivalent to the length of three football pitches. Additional walkways were provided as necessary. After the sprinkler system was installed, all of the scaffolding was quickly dismantled and removed.

Find out more about our work on our website and get in touch with us to discuss your bespoke scaffolding requirements.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding: Let the Sun Shine!

Looking after the environment is of obvious importance. Awareness of environmental issues continues to rise, leading to more and more people changing their lifestyles to minimise their impact on the planet's dwindling resources. One of the ways in which this can be achieved is by relying less on fossil fuels and other non-sustainable energy sources to provide electricity: installing solar panels is one of the quickest and most effective methods to achieve this.

Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd were contracted to design and build scaffolding to enable solar panels to be installed on the roof of a privately-owned house. As with every scaffolding structure that we provide, it was essential that our expert team took all requirements carefully into consideration, ensuring the design and erection of a suitable, safe scaffold.

The first consideration was access: the homeowner was to remain in the property throughout the installation of the solar panels and so a secure access gate was included in our design. We also had to take into account the weather which is, as anyone who lives in the UK will well know, unpredictable at best.

Another important consideration related to the solar panels themselves: though large, heavy and cumbersome, the panels incorporate extremely delicate components and so lifting them up to the working platform at the roof level of the central area of the property had to be carefully managed. Our expert technical team incorporated what is known as a 'gin wheel' into the design to meet this crucial need.

This project was decidedly short-term, with the scaffold requiring dismantling within just seven days of installation checks. The dismantling date was therefore schedule as soon as the booking date was confirmed, ensuring that the property owner and neighbouring property owners were inconvenienced as little as possible.

Discover more of our work in the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding at Rochdale College

The UK has a long and admirable history of education, with universities and colleges all over the country. Many of these establishments are housed in ageing buildings, which need to be regularly renovated to ensure a continued safe environment for students and staff to learn and work in. Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd have provided the scaffolding structures necessary to complete such renovation work: a recent project saw our team head to Rochdale College to install a large bespoke scaffold design.

The building and renovation work took place over a number of weeks, with the college remaining open as usual throughout this time; this meant that several access issues has to be taken into consideration. As well as providing a stable, durable platform for building contractors to carry out their work from, our team also had to create a safe and accessible route for students and staff heading to the main campus.

A temporary route to the college's main entrance was designed and installed. The structure was based on heavy-duty steel ladder beams, boarded out with timber via smooth precession joints from the boards of the scaffold. This element of the design plan prevented there being tripping hazards and safety levels were further improved with the addition of handrails and a non-slip surface cover.

Cradle support was erected over the entrance, which allowed the building work to begin. One of the major aspects included extensive work to the beams of the structure which, when completed, would ensure the structural integrity of the building. Ensuring that all of the design elements were successfully linked together required extremely accurate workmanship, with absolutely no deviation from the carefully worked-out bespoke design.

To find out more about our scaffolding work, check out our portfolioGet in touch with our team to discuss your project's unique requirements and let the Mitchell's magic begin!

 

Bespoke Scaffolding Solutions: Wesham Hospital & St Mary's College

At Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd, we offer a comprehensive suite of scaffolding services. The diversity of our services means that our work entails an equally diverse array of projects:  here we look at two very different but equally essential projects that we have completed.

DSCN0537St Marys Pase 2 Finished(5)web

Wesham Hospital, Kirkham 

The facade of the Wesham Hospital Building was suffering from movement issues, which had gradually become worse over a period of several years. To remedy the situation, contractors proposed a remedial shoring-up project that would prevent any further movement and reinstate the building's structural integrity. Scaffolding was therefore required to allow contractors safe access to carry out the work.

Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd was tasked with designing and erecting a substantial scaffolding solution, which was required to be in place for a period of over 12 months. This was duly completed and made safe from unauthorised access with robust fencing; weekly inspections ensured that everything was kept in order while the shoring-up work was completed.

 

St Mary's College, Blackburn

Located in a residential area, St Mary's College required extensive repointing work to its facade and chimney stack. To meet contractor requirements, our expert scaffolding team constructed scaffold structures in three phases: hoardings and debris netting were also erected to ensure the contractors could work in complete safety without posing any risks to themselves or passersby. Continual removal and reattachment of fixings was not an issue thanks to the gated entry point that was incorporated into our bespoke scaffold design.

College, necessitating scaffolding which was constructed in three phases. The college is located in a residential area and so hoarding to the full base on both elevations was quickly put in place, along with effective debris netting. A gated entry point offers secure access, negating the need for constant removal and reattachment of the fixings.

 

Wherever the building and whatever the project, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd have got the right solution. Browse our portfolio to see more examples of the diverse work we do and get in touch with our team for information and advice.

 

Unique Scaffolding Solutions: Aqueduct 35

Though much of our work focuses on providing scaffolding and related services to buildings in which people work and reside, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are able to deliver these services to more unusual projects. One of these projects was Aqueduct 35, located close to our headquarters in Colne, Lancashire.

Manual handling requirements were to be kept to a minimum and so Mitchell's hired a purpose-designed quad and trailer to transport equipment directly to the site. As safety is always our number one priority and this project necessitated the use of specialist clothing and accessories, these were purchased by Mitchell's to ensure our operatives could work safely and effectively.

Our experts designed, planned and erected three separate drop scaffolds to allow contractor access: these were installed at key points along the length of the aqueduct. Each structure provided access to relevant parts of the aqueduct, particularly the mains gas pipe and a partially eroded concrete plinth.

A key requirement of the project, which was overseen by representatives of the National Grid, was to prevent any pressure being placed on the aqueduct. To ensure this requirement was met, Mitchell's operatives carefully designed a system that incorporated a specific number of kentledges (a system of weights that is used to load-test piled foundations), thereby allowing the scaffold structures to be built directly on to the tow path adjacent to the aqueduct.

Check out the 'Portfolio' section of our website to find out more about the diverse scope of work carried out by Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd.

 

Scaffolding Services: Fast, Precise and Disruption-Free

Our work spans the domestic, commercial and industrial sectors, both private and public, facilitating a diverse range of construction and repair projects. Often, the projects we work on need to be completed in a tight time frame while still adhering fully to all safety regulations: here we look at two past projects that were completed successfully in a limited amount of time, preventing major disruption.

Burnley Water Treatment Plant

The crucial water treatment plant required repairs to the flue and pipe works as well as a low-level flat roof. Pre-planning sessions, at which every eventuality was considered, allowed our team to design a suitable scaffold structure that would entail minimal disruption and allow the work to be completed in as short a time as possible. This pre-planning is always vital and ensures that everything from parking induction to scaffold erection can happen smoothly and without incident.

As well as scaffolding, we also erected a gated tower to provide easier access. A double-sided walkway was installed across the structure and the adjacent building's perimeter, with secure handrails added to improve safety.

 

Blackburn Train Station

Essential building work in and around the foyer of Blackburn's busy train station necessitated the design and installation of scaffolding. A huge crash deck, sheeted and plyboarded, was designed to ensure complete isolation from the area below, preventing the fall of debris that could cause injury to other contractors passing beneath. Minimal disruption was ensured by only carrying out scaffolding work between 11pm and 5am, when the station is not open to the public.

This diverse pair of projects highlights the versatility of scaffolding provided by Mitchell's. Discover more of our work on the website and get in touch with us to discuss your bespoke scaffolding requirements.

 

Roof Repairs Facilitated by Mitchell's Scaffolding

access towerHeavy rain and strong winds (two elements that make up a classic British summer!) have caused damage to structures all over the UK. As the first line of defence for any structure, roofs have been particularly affected by the bad weather and this means that there is lots of repair work to be done. Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd deliver a suite of services designed to assist roofing contractors in this crucial work.

Scaffold Supply, Hire and Erection

We own an unmatched collection of scaffolding components, including fittings, tubes and boards. These allow us to design and build scaffolds of any size and specification, giving contractors safe, secure and easy access to damaged roofs. In addition to scaffold structures, we can also provide any required ancillary, such as nets, props, gates, chutes and ladders. As safety is so important, we use method statements, risk assessments, handover certificates and scafftags, as well as insisting that all of our operatives carry valid CISRS/CSCS cards.

Temporary Roofs

The rain and wind that caused the damage in the first place can continue to be a problem, causing delays and downtime that in turn cause hassle and financial costs. Temporary roofing structures provided by Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are designed to allow repair work to continue rain or shine and we can create these structures to suit any project.

 

Alloy Access Towers

Delivering flexible mobility, our alloy access towers are suitable for use in all sorts of structural applications, whether construction, renovation or maintenance. Mounted on tough, high quality castor wheels, these towers can be erected in a matter of minutes.

 

These are just some of the professional scaffolding services and equipment available at Mitchell's. Browse our website to discover more.

 

Scaffolding Vacancies: Join our Expanding Team

Since the company was launched, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd has continued to grow and develop, becoming one of the leading scaffolding contractors in the northwest. Our evolution continues unabated as we regularly expand the range and scope of our services: this continuing expansion means that we have several job vacancies now available.

Our impressive reputation for quality, safety, cost-effectiveness, versatility and reliability has been as carefully built as our scaffolding structures themselves. Whether a project is in the domestic, commercial or industrial sector, we use our knowledge and experience to make sure it is as successful as it can be. We now own and operate a fleet of eight modern vehicles, including the most recent addition of a massive 21.5-ton wagon.

Safety is always our number-one priority. Every process and procedure we use meets and exceeds the standards required for CHAS, SAFE Contractor Constuctionline and carries the latest Acclaim accreditation. We ensure total complicity with all British Standard Regulations, Construction Regulations and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Though it is not a legal requirement, we insist that all of our scaffolders are CISRS Certified, CITB trained and hold a current CSCS card.

We are looking for focused, dedicated individuals to join our team. If you are an experienced Part 2 or Advanced Scaffolder or Driver, we invite you to apply to work with us on new and ongoing contracts in the local area. All applicants must hold a valid, current CSCS or CISRS card: a wagon license is an advantage but is not essential.

For more information on these vacancies, get in touch with Stuart or Debbie on 07981 031 537.

 

Housing Repairs: Our Bespoke Scaffolding Solutions

As the UK population grows, the need for affordable, quality housing stock increases. To meet this need in Lancashire, the Local Authority Renewal Program was established: Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd were proud to design and install bespoke scaffold solutions which facilitated essential renovation work to properties included in the program, located in Great Harwood and Huncoat.

Operations centred on the repair and replacement of chimneys to many properties, as well as a significant amount of render and removal work. As a highly-renowned local scaffolding supplier with plenty of practical experience, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd was awarded a rolling contract to supply scaffolds to the large-scale, ongoing project. Around ten properties at a time had scaffold erected round them and, as the repairs to each property were completed, the scaffolds were removed to be re-erected at the next property on the list.

The properties are extremely varied in style and range from bungalows up to structures four storeys in height; our scaffolds facilitated total access to the roofline of each property. Many of the rendered structures has gables and these required working lifts to be installed. Scaffolds on the non-rendered properties were installed with a double handrail edge to ensure that workers could not fall. Debris protection was ensured with gantry installation and double toe boards.

Find out more about our past successes in the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Scaffolding Safety: CSCS/CISRS Cards

Working in the construction industry obviously entails many inherent safety risks and reducing these is our number-one priority here at Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd. Part of this commitment to safety is our insistence that each and every one of our operatives holds a valid, up to date CSCS (Construction Skills Certificate Scheme) or CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) card.

Astoundingly, scaffolding operatives' possession of such a card is currently NOT a legal requirement here in the UK but it IS a requirement of working for Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd. This allows us to be 100% certain that our operatives are completely competent in carrying out their work.

The CISRS is 'the preferred scaffolding qualification of all the major organisations including CSCS, NASC, HSE, Build UK, UNITE and the largest scaffold systems manufacturers'. For more than four decades, the organisation has been the industry leader when it comes to scaffold training and there are currently around 60,000 CISRS cardholders in the UK, with many more registered holders livingrand/or working abroad.

The CSCS is responsible for delivering training and certified qualifications right across the spectrum of the construction industry. After rigorous training and examination, trainees are issued with an official CSCS card, proving that they have displayed the competency required to undertake relevant working procedures safely and effectively.

Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are always on the lookout for new additions to our team and currently have vacancies for Scaffold Laborers, Advanced Scaffolders and Drivers. For more information about joining our skilled team, check out the careers page of our website and, if you think you have what it takes (as well as a calid CSCS/CISRS card!), then get in touch with us today.

 

Scaffolding Services: Up on the Roof...

A roof is the first line of defence for any structure large or small, protecting the interior and its inhabitants from the elements. It's therefore crucial that roofs are kept in good repair and so there is always plenty of roof work taking place throughout the year. Mitchell's Scaffolding provides a comprehensive suite of services designed to facilitate the work of roofing contractors. These services include:

Scaffold Supply, Hire and Erection

Mitchell's Scaffolding owns a huge collection of scaffolding components, including tubes, boards and fittings, that allow us to design and build scaffolding structures of any size, shape and specification. In addition to the scaffolding itself, we can also provide netting, propping, safety gates, ladders, rubbish chutes and more. Safety is our number one priority and so we use scafftags, risk assessments, method statements and handover certificates, in addition to only employing operatives with CISRS/CSCS accreditation.

Temporary Roofs

Projects involving roof repair are particularly vulnerable to the weather and rain can cause big delays, with correspondingly big financial costs. Temporary roofing structures allow work to continue unhindered, preventing such delays and costs. As with our scaffolding, we can create temporary roofs to suit any size, shape and type of structure.

Alloy Access Towers

For the ultimate in onsite mobility, flexibility and access safety, alloy access towers from Mitchell's Scaffolding are suited to a wide range of applications from roof construction to maintenance, repair and simple decoration. The towers are mounted on robust, high-quality castor wheels and can be erected in minutes.

These are just some of the professional scaffolding services and equipment available at Mitchell's. Browse our website to discover more.

 

Scaffolding Solutions: Local to Lancashire

Though our work here at Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd takes us all over the UK, many of the projects we create scaffolding and other access structures for take place in and around our local area of Lancashire. One such scaffold was designed, installed and finally removed by our team in order to provide access for essential roof repairs to an HSBC bank building in Accrington.

The building that currently houses the HSBC branch is located on Blackburn Road, which is an extremely busy thoroughfare close to Accrington town centre and this location meant that public access would be required at all times throughout the repair project.  The appropriate scaffolding permits were duly arranged with the local authority for a duration of 3 weeks, with the option to extend this time in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

To ensure complete safety, our scaffolding wagons were parked well within working barriers, with footpath access being diverted while the scaffolding was erected. Once the scaffold structure was completed, the footpath was reopened with clear walkways running below the platforms for pedestrian access.

At the rear elevation of the property, a very narrow alleyway (which was further narrowed with the erection of the scaffold structure) meant that our team had to use all of their extensive experience and knowledge to design and build a structure that would allow easy access for contractors.

Discover more about this unique scaffolding project and others we have completed in the 'Portfolio' section of our website. For other news, updates and features, subscribe to our regular newsletter.

 

Scaffolding Solutions: Fighting the Floods

After days of baking in the sun, much of the UK was subject to torrential rain accompanied by lots of dramatic thunder and lightning. Many properties were affected by flooding due to the downpour, a problem that affects all sorts of structures around the country. Strong defenses are crucial in minimising or even preventing floods and Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd have provided bespoke scaffolding solutions to a number of flood defense projects.

One such project took place at Follyclough Brook in Rossendale. The brook runs behind a row of privately-owned houses and, when there has been an excess of rain, poses a potential flood risk from increased run-off. A previously-installed protective wall had become damaged over time and was condemned to demolition, to be rebuilt along a 70m stretch of the waterway.

The demolition and subsequent rebuild of the wall required a bespoke scaffold design to allow contractors clear, safe access to the site. After delays due to bad weather, our scaffolding design was built and work began, with an estimated finish date a month later. A watchful eye was kept on the weather, with operatives from Mitchell's Scaffolding standing by to meet any challenge.

After successful completion of the new flood defence wall, we removed our scaffolding structure, leaving the area clean, clear and tidy. The rebuilt wall ensures that Follyclough Brook does not pose a flooding risk and Mitchell's Scaffolding were proud to have taken part in such an important project.

Find out more about our bespoke scaffolding work on our website.

 

Access Equipment: Our Professional Suite of Services

Over many years of successful operation, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd has grown to become one of the leading providers of scaffolding and related structures in our native Lancashire and beyond. We own and maintain a comprehensive range of access equipment which, along with the services of our cherry-picked, highly-trained and -competent team, is available to hire at the most competitive market price.

Our access equipment includes:

  • A complete inventory of the materials used to make strong, safe scaffolding structures to bespoke requirements. All of the components we use, such as tubes, boards and fittings, are of proven professional quality
  • Temporary roofing systems designed to offer protection to all types of structures and sites, allowing work to continue no matter what the weather is
  • Staircase scaffolds to allow contractors to easily and safely access structures they are working on
  • Safety equipment to protect both contractors and the public. Each project is unique and so equipment varies but includes safety/debris netting, brickguards, edge protection and security gates and fences
  • Sundry items of equipment such as gin wheels, hop ups and rubbish chutes
  • Temporary bridges ad walkways for contractors and the public

We take each project we are presented with on an individual basis and, after site visits and liaison with contractors, we create a unique, bespoke scaffold design. This is then professionally and quickly installed and, after the project is completed, our team carefully dismantle the scaffold, temporary bridge or roof and leave the area impeccably clean, tidy and safe.

Our work is extremely diverse and we have created scaffolding and other access and protective structures everywhere from schools to hospitals, from churches to libraries and from train stations to private buildings. You can find out more about this work on our website: just head to the dedicated 'Portfolio' section.

For a free, no-obligation quote or any other information, contact our team today.

 

Safety First: Scaffolding for Sprinkler System

Health & safety in the workplace involves many different aspects, one of which is protection from fire. A sprinkler system is often the first line of defence: one such system was recently installed at a food production facility in Scunthorpe and Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd were called in to provide a suspended scaffolding structure to facilitate its installation.

The proposed positioning of the scaffolding, which was planned on a large scale, meant that the best option was aluminium tubing. The first phase involved scaffold and loading being erected around a forklift doorway; this had to be installed in such a way as to permit full operational access throughout. A purpose-created opening allowed scaffolding kit to pass into the roof space of the building and all of the tubing was lifted carefully by hand.

Operatives transferred necessary equipment into the area over a distance equivalent to three football pitches before assembly could begin. Towards the end of operations, smaller areas (including the boiler room) required extra walkways, which our operatives were quickly able to provide.

Once all of the work was completed and the sprinkler system properly installed, our team quickly and efficiently dismantled all of the scaffolding components, ensuring that the premises were left in a clean, secure state.

This is just one of the many successfully completed projects by Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd. Many of our projects have been collated for your convenience onto a dedicated 'portfolio' page, which you can check out right here on our website.  Get in touch with us to discuss your bespoke scaffolding requirements.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding for New Build Housing

Many of the scaffolding solutions designed, built and finally removed by Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd facilitate new-build housing projects. One of these installations, at a brand new social housing project in Chorley, was particularly complex and presented our team with several challenges.

The project involved building six new semi-detached houses, each of which was to be constructed using timber frames. This method of construction meant that, unlike traditional new builds to which scaffolding is erected in phases to accommodate the work of bricklayers, the bespoke scaffold had to be erected in just one phase.

Pre-start meetings are always arranged to ensure that no detail is overlooked before construction of the scaffold begins. One of the key points raised at the pre-start meeting for this project was the close proximity of the intended site to railway lines and the need to avoid rail services being disrupted. To prevent any boundaries being crossed, additional fencing and brick guards were agreed on.

Staircases were included in the scaffold design to allow easy, safe access. In addition to these, small link bridges were constructed to allow workers to move easily and safely between plots. To allow party walls to be completed, loading bays and internal scaffolds were set up.

Find out more about projects facilitated by Mitchell's Scaffolding in the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Temporary Stairs: Improving Safety and Efficiency

Temporary Stairs: Improving Safety and EfficiencyPart of our comprehensive suite of scaffolding services involves the supply of temporary staircases and stair towers. These structures offer several benefits, from improving safety to enhancing productivity.

Temporary stair towers are in increasing demand, providing as they do a swift, safe and cost-effective method of access in a versatile range of working situations. Perhaps the biggest benefit is the improvement of safety, negating the need for site personnel to use ladders in the early stages of a construction project. Our temporary staircases are provided complete with sturdy handrails, further enhancing safety levels.

We use the toughest, highest-quality to manufacture our temporary stair solutions. This robustness means that they are safe and efficient to use whatever the weather and working conditions. Suited to both short- and long-duration works, temporary stair towers from Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are guaranteed to deliver 100% satisfaction wherever they are used.

Simply and quickly erected, temporary stair towers from Mitchell's eliminate the need for costly downtime and we can tailor each staircase to meet exact requirements. We employ only dedicated, knowledgeable, trained and certified installers on our staff so that our clients can rest assured that they are receiving superlative service from start to finish.

Find out more about our temporary staircases and stair towers on the website. To discuss bespoke requirements, simply contact a member of our skilled customer service team.

 

Temporary Roofs: Containment and Protection

The one variable that can't be controlled when it comes to construction work is the weather. No matter what the season, weather cannot be relied upon and can have serious effects on productivity. The best way to solve the issue is with the erection of a temporary roof: designing and installing such structures is one of our specialities here at Mitchell's Scaffolding.

Now that the winter is over, the main threat from the weather is rain; this has been evidenced by several named storms recently battering the country. Such heavy rain can prevent work from continuing at many building sites, hindering target times, reducing productivity and causing costly standing time. A temporary roof instantly negates these issues.

It doesn't matter how big or small a structure is or where it's located: Mitchell's Scaffolding can deliver an effective temporary roof solution. We use the most modern tools, materials and techniques to ensure that the perfect solution is delivered, providing containment and protection to bespoke requirements. Whether pitched, polygonal or any other shape, the roof we design and deliver will be of the most professional quality.

As with all of the projects we work on, health and safety is the number one priority when it comes to installing temporary roofs. Every one of our operatives is fully-trained to the highest levels and carries an up-to-date CSCS card for your peace of mind. For more information about how a temporary roof could let YOUR project continue through any weather, get in touch with our team today.

 

Temporary Scaffolding: Here Today, Gone Tomorrow!

At Mitchell's Scaffolding, our diverse scope of work sees our operatives travel all over the country but we're never happier than when we're working right here in Lancashire. From libraries to aqueducts and everything in between, our work has seen us improve the quality of our area for residents and visitors alike. One such project was at the Yorkshire Bank in Burnley and here are some details of the successful results we achieved.

Located on the corner of Burnley's Manchester Road, the Yorkshire Bank building is in the heart of the busy town centre. To improve the aesthetic of the structure, window replacement and  decoration was planned at the upper level and this work required the installation of scaffolding to be completed.

With just a single day allotted to the project to allow the bank to offer uninterrupted customer service, time was most certainly of the essence and we had to work quickly to meet targets. Our superb breadth of experience and innate flexibility meant that we could easily accommodate the tight time schedule without compromising safety or efficiency.

The unique positioning of the building meant that a licence and scaffold permit had to be quickly obtained through Lancashire Highways. While these were obtained, our skilled operatives got to work on designing the bespoke scaffolding structure, which included three fully-boarded lifts at the base. These lifts allowed for quick, easy and unobstructed access to the upper level of the structure, where window replacement and decoration was to take place.

Many safeguarding features were included in the design, including nets to catch any escaping debris that could injure passers-by. Ladder access was provided at each level along with ladder traps; the whole structure was tied firmly to the building to ensure stability.

Find out more about our past projects in the 'Portfolio' section of our website and get in touch with our skilled technical team for further information on our scaffolding services.

 

Large Scale Scaffolding Solutions: Wesham Hospital

Many of the scaffolds we design and install are truly temporary, sometimes remaining in place for only one or two days while works are carried out. On occasion, a scaffolding solution may have to be in place for a good deal longer: this was the case at Wesham Hospital near Blackpool, where the scaffold we supplied remained in place for a full 12 months.

The facade of Wesham Hospital building had had movement issues over a course of several years. This movement began to pose a safety issue and so the external elements of the building had to be shored up, necessitating a large-scale remedial project which in turn required an equally large-scale scaffolding design.

Installing the scaffolding correctly threw up a number of challenges, one of which involved deviating from the original design to allow the scaffold to have acceptable clearance on the higher portion of the plinth that runs around the building. The buttress standard is subject to compressive loadings; standards requiring lapped joints are the standard forming the independent. After liaising closely with the contractors, we added further check fittings which were photographed for the contractor's approval.

After the scaffold was built, all excess equipment was quickly and safely removed by Mitchell's. Fencing was then re-erected to prevent any unauthorised access. As the structure was required to stay in place for such an extended period, Mitchell's provided weekly inspections to check that everything remained completely safe throughout.

Find out more about our bespoke scaffolding solutions on our website.

 

Scaffolding Solutions for a Greener World

Caring for the environment is incredibly important and, as awareness of the many issues related to environmental protection is raised, more and more people are adapting their lifestyles accordingly. One way of improving the green credentials of a property is by installing solar panels, helping to reduce usage of energy from non-sustainable sources.

Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd were recently contracted to provide a scaffold solution to a private house, onto which solar panels were to be installed. As with every scaffold we create, it was essential to take all requirements into consideration.

The weather is always a consideration but was of particular importance to this project, necessitating the use of extra caution to our working methods. Also essential to a successful result was allowing the homeowner full and unrestricted access to the property while the scaffold remained in place.

The panels were to be installed to the central areas of the roof of the property. As part of our remit, the scaffold solution we provided had an access gate along with gin wheel: the latter was used to lift the heavy yet delicate solar panels up to the working platform.

This was a short-term project, with the scaffold being dismantled within seven days of installation checks. We scheduled the dismantling date as soon as the booking date was confirmed, ensuring the least possible inconvenience to both the resident and neighbouring properties.

Discover more of our work in the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding Design: Rochdale College

The scaffolding solutions designed and delivered by Mitchell's allow crucial work to be carried out on a variety of buildings, many of which are essential parts of our country's infrastructure. One such building is Rochdale College, which recently required an extensive, bespoke scaffolding design.

As the college was to remain open and fully-functional during the building work, a number of access issues had to be addressed. Safe and continuous access was required by students and faculty staff and so, as well as providing a platform for contractors to work from, we had to ensure that a people-friendly route to the main campus was provided.

A temporary disabled access route was installed and this ramp was linked to the main entrance, after spanning a sunken service road. This element of the plan required the use of heavy-duty steel ladder beam, with the addition of handrails for safety. The structure was fully boarded out before plywood was added via smooth precession joints from the scaffold boards, negating any tripping hazard. Safety was further improved with the addition of a non-slip cover for pedestrians.

The entrance foyer of the college required extensive beam work and so cradle support was erected above the entrance. This allowed work to begin on cutting away the existing handrail.

Linking all of the various aspects together successfully required the most accurate workmanship with zero tolerance for deviation to the bespoke design. The college continued to operate as normal without impediment and the timescale was made appropriate to the needs of both college and contractor.

To find out more about our scaffolding work, check out our portfolio. Want to be our next success story? Get in touch with our team!

 

Bespoke Scaffolding Solutions: Pownall Bridge

The diverse array of projects we provide scaffolding for present to us an equally  diverse array of challenges for our expert team to overcome. One such challenge was at Pownall Bridge in Cheshire, where we had to create a temporary bridge across a stream to allow for repairs to be undertaken on the original permanent stone-built bridge.

As well as supporting the weight of pedestrians, the temporary bridge would be used by passengers on horseback and so our design had to take this into account. Fortunately, there was good access to the site, allowing our vehicles to park much closer than was originally anticipated. Travellers were diverted to the temporary crossing using gravel tracks.

To ensure a strong base, railway sleepers were installed at the foundations of the new bridge, while twin beams were used at each elevation over the water of the stream. One end of the platform was installed at a slight angle, allowing for a smooth transition between bridge level and gravel walkway.

As the bridge neared completion, guards and handrails were put firmly into place. All of the fittings that were used on the walkway were then covered with protective caps, preventing any injuries to people or animals crossing the temporary bridge.

Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd specialise in creating such bespoke scaffolding structures. Our expert designers and scaffolders are fully-trained and certified, ensuring they deliver consistently safe and successful results.

Find out more about our work on the website and get in touch to discuss YOUR bespoke scaffolding requirements.

 

Blackburn Central Library — Back to the Future

Progress sometimes involves looking back into the past and that was certainly the case with Blackburn Central Library, which was treated to a £2million facelift to restore it to its original glory. Mitchell's designed and installed a bespoke scaffolding solution to facilitate the 'Back to the Future' project.

Blackburn Central Library

For 40 years, the building was home to the Co-Op Emporium, a department store that opened with the merger of four other Co-Op stores back in 1930. When the library took over the premises in 1970, an ill-advised project saw the facade of the building covered with ugly concrete cladding.

As well as being aesthetically unattractive, the concrete cladding eroded over the years. This damage became so bad that there was a clear risk of lumps of masonry falling into the street below, prompting council bosses to authorise its removal. Mitchell's were contracted to provide a scaffolding solution, which was designed to bespoke specifications.

Damian Talbot, who is in charge of leisure for Blackburn with Darwen council, said that he was 'delighted' with the removal of the concrete cladding that has allowed the original beauty of the building to shine through once again. He said, “The scaffolding that has been on the central library for around 12 months is almost completely removed, and the majority of the stonework has been restored. This was a vital piece of investment, and what it did was give us an opportunity to restore the building to its original glory. The library is very important in the town, very well used and one of the busiest libraries in the north west, and it is a landmark building in Blackburn centre.

Work on the outside of the building coincided with a transformation inside, in which a brand-new online information hub was created to improve facilities for residents of the local area. All of the work is now complete and the scaffolding fully removed.

To find out more about previous projects that Mitchell's have provided scaffolding to, check out our portfolio online.

 

Scaffolding Services in the Residential Sector

Our work takes us all over the country but two recent projects took place just a stone's throw away from our headquarters in Accrington. One project involved renovation work to almost 40 social housing properties while the other focused on new build properties. Both projects were located in the Oswaldtwistle area and Mitchell's successfully designed, installed and finally removed bespoke scaffolding to facilitate the crucial works.

The project involved 39 social housing properties, each of which required new roofs along with pointing and render works. As the properties remained occupied during the works, the most important part of our brief was to ensure full protection to residents who could be potentially injured by falling debris or other objects. This complete protection was achieved with the use of double toe boards erected with each scaffold.

To carry out the dual role of disposing waste from old roof coverings and delivering new slates to the roof, 2- and 3-lift gantries were installed, along with an additional scaffold gate which allows bumper hoists to be installed.

The second project in Oswaldtwistle involved facilitating new builds, many of which were sold off-plan and all of which feature different design techniques. We provided a daily presence on-site to make sure that numerous adaptations could be undertaken on an ad hoc basis, preventing any downtime.

Designed loading bays were erected for each individual property; larger properties warranted two loading bays. The scaffolding works were phased to meet the changing needs of the roofers and bricklayers, with installation for the pikes included.

Both projects are now complete. For more information on the varied scaffolding services we provide, check out or website or get in touch with our team.

 

Scaffolding Solution for Flood Protection

Flooding affects properties all over the UK each year and many millions of pounds are spent in defense against the problem. Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd were contracted to provide a scaffolding solution to a 70m stretch of Follyclough Brook in Rossendale, giving flood protection to a row of privately-owned houses.

Follyclough Brook runs behind the row of houses. During periods of heavy rainfall, run-off from the brook has the potential to cause flooding and the protective wall already in place had fallen into disrepair. This wall was therefore condemned to be demolished and subsequently rebuilt.

As soon as the design plans were agreed upon, Mitchell's Scaffolding created a scaffold design that would allow for access prior to and during the demolition and rebuild. The scaffolding was duly installed but then had to be quickly removed due to a downturn in the weather: this emergency removal was to prevent the the possibility of debris being trapped on the uprights and bracing standing in the bed.

The scaffold was returned to place three days later and work began, with an estimated time of completion scheduled for 3-4 weeks later. Operatives from Mitchell's Scaffolding were on standby in case the weather turned bad again but further downpours were not as heavy as predicted and work was able to progress to completion, at which point the scaffolding was removed.

Find out more about our bespoke scaffolding work on our website.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding Systems: Aqueduct 35

Many of the projects we have supplied scaffolding services to have involved repair and renovation to buildings in which people live and work. Sometimes though, our work focuses on structures designed to deliver services and one of these is Aqueduct 35 in Colne, Lancashire.

Bespoke Scaffolding Systems: Aqueduct 35

To reduce manual handling requirements, Mitchell's hired a quad and trailer which were used to transport scaffold equipment to the erection site. Specialist clothing was purchased in order to ensure that all operatives were fully equipped to carry out safe working practice.

The project involved the planning and subsequent erection of three individual drop scaffolds, each of which was installed at a key point along the length of the aqueduct. These scaffold allowed the contractors to gain access to the areas within which the mains gas pipe and eroded concrete plinth are located.

One of the key requirements of this unique project was to prevent any pressure whatsoever being placed on the walls of the viaduct; experts from Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd therefore designed a system that incorporated a fixed amount of kentledges (a system of weights used to load-test piled foundations), allowing the scaffold to be constructed directly on the adjacent tow path.

The entire process was overseen by officials from the National Grid, ensuring that all work was carried out according to strict regulations. After all necessary repairs were completed, our operatives removed the scaffolding, leaving the area clean and tidy. Residents of the Colne area can now look forward to a guaranteed supply of gas for many years to come.

Check out the 'Portfolio' section of our website to find out more about the diverse scope of work carried out by Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd.

 

Scaffolding and the Improvement of Housing Stock

Improving the quality of housing stock is essential and it is to this end that the Local Authority Renewal Program was set up in Lancashire. Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd have been involved with several projects carried out as part of this program, two of which were located in Huncoat and Great Harwood.

Roof and RenderRoof and Render web

The renovation works were carried out to a large number of properties, with operations centering on repair/replacement of chimneys and removal/render work. Mitchell's were awarded a rolling contract to supply scaffolding to the large-scale project, with around ten properties at a time having scaffold erected. As each property was completed, the scaffold was removed and re-erected at the following property.

The scaffolding solutions we provided gave complete roofline access to bungalows and houses with two, three or four storeys. Many of the rendered properties had gables; these properties each required a pair of working lifts while the non-rendered properties needed a double handrail edge to prevent workers from falling. Added debris protection was provided with the addition of double toe-boards and gantry installation.

All of the toe-boards and platforms were firmly clamped in place to prevent high winds from uplifting scaffold boards. A minimum of two staff members handled particularly long components to further enhance safety levels.

Find out more about our past successes in the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Scaffolding, Sprinklers and Scunthorpe!

Scaffolding, Sprinklers and Scunthorpe!Scaffolding, Sprinklers and Scunthorpe!

Protection from fire is one of the most important aspects of Health & Safety in the workplace and many buildings use a sprinkler system as a first line of defence. When a busy food production factory decide to install such a system, suspended scaffolding was required and Mitchell's were ideally place to provide it.

The Two Sisters Food Group is based in Scunthorpe and comprises a large warehouse along with administration and maintenance areas. As part of a larger refurbishment project, the installation of the sprinkler system was the most major aspect: work was scheduled to take place in two phases.

The positioning of the scaffold structures, along with the massive scale of the project, meant that aluminium tubing was the best option. In the first phase, scaffold and loading were erected around a busy forklift doorway, ensuring that full operational access was maintained. The vast amount of scaffolding tubing was manually lifted; access was permitted through a specifically-created opening, allowing the scaffold kit to pass freely into the building's roof space.

Before any assembly could be undertaken, the scaffolding operatives began to transfer equipment to the required area, a considerable distance equivalent to around three full-sized football pitches. Towards the end of the phase, many smaller areas such as the boiler room required additional walkways, which Mitchell's were immediately able to provide.

Once the work was completed, we dismantled and removed all scaffolding, leaving the premises clean, safe and secure. Find out more about our work on our website and get in touch with us to discuss your bespoke scaffolding requirements.

Trade Quotes
 

Scaffolding with Minimal Disruption: Two Case Studies

Mitchell's Scaffolding work in both the private and public sectors, facilitating construction, renovation and refurbishment works. We often have to work as quickly as possible while ensuring safety levels are constantly at 100%; here we look at two very different projects that had to be completed in a limited time to prevent major disruption to the public.

Burnley Water Treatment PlantBurnley Water Treatment Plant

To ensure the minimum of disruption to this crucial water treatment plant, the scaffold works required were planned well in advance, with all possibilities being closely considered. This pre-start planning was certainly valuable as vehicle access was an issue due to the need to park so close to the erection point on the access road; proper planning meant that everything from parking induction to scaffold erection took place without issue.

Several components went into making this project run smoothly. The scaffold allowed access to the flue and pipe works while a gated tower was installed to provide easy access to the low-level flat roof. Safety was ensured with a two-sided, hand-railed walkway installed across the structure and the perimeter of the building adjacent.

Train Station 007 webBlackburn Train Station

We designed and installed a full scaffold structure to protect patrons passing through the foyer of this busy station while building work took place. Sheeted and ply-boarded, the huge crash deck was designed to ensure complete protection to the entire pedestrian area, preventing any debris from falling through and causing injury. To further enhance pedestrian safety, the scaffolding work took place during the night from 11pm until 5am while the station was closed to the public.

This diverse pair of projects highlights the versatility of scaffolding provided by Mitchell's. Discover more of our work on the website and get in touch with us to discuss your bespoke scaffolding requirements.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding: New Builds in Chorley

Mitchell's Scaffolding often design, supply, build and subsequently remove scaffolds designed to facilitate new build projects. One such project we completed involved creating a complex bespoke scaffold for a brand new social housing project in Chorley.

The new semi-detached houses, two to a plot across a total of three plots, are made using a timber frame construction method. Unlike traditional new builds, where scaffolding is erected in phases to accommodate bricklayers, for timber-frame builds the scaffold must be erected in a single phase.

We always carry out detailed inspections and pre-start meetings to ensure that the scaffolding solution we design is nothing less than perfect. One key point discussed during pre-start meetings for this particular project was the close proximity of the site to railway tracks: it was essential to address additional requirements that would ensure train services were not impeded. Brick guards and additional fencing were agreed on to prevent the possibility of crossing any boundaries.

Work began on the first plot, with four sides up to roof height. Improved access at each scaffold level was provided with staircases and second and third scaffolds were installed as soon as the first was completed. Our scaffolds included small link bridges, which were used to allow ease of movement for contractors between plots, ensuring that injury risk was reduced and efficiency enhanced.

The installation of loading bays followed before internal scaffolds were set up to allow for party walls to be completed. Once this had taken place and after some alterations to roofing and checking for water-tightness, all scaffolds were removed and the job was complete.

Find out more about projects facilitated by Mitchell's Scaffolding in the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Bespoke Scaffolding: Nando's Manchester

Nando's is one of the most popular fast food chains on the high street, with more than 1,000 branches around the world. Over 280 of those branches are located in the UK and Northern Ireland: Mitchell's Scaffolding recently designed and installed bespoke scaffolding at one of these branches.

Nando's was founded in South Africa in 1987, after friends Fernando Duarte and Robert Brozin went for a meal together at a local takeaway named 'Chickenland'. So impressive was the food that the friends decided to purchase the outlet, paying the equivalent of around £25,000.

After renaming the restaurant 'Nando's' (after Fernando's son), the business quickly grew, with three further outlets opening within two years. The first Nando's in the UK opened in 1992 and, after an initial struggle, became the fast food giant that it is today, employing more than 8,000 UK staff.

The branch of Nando's in Cheetham Hill, Manchester, is located in the busy Fort Street Retail Park. When a substantial amount of renovation and repair work was planned to the outside of the building, the owners contacted Mitchell's Scaffolding to request scaffolding to provide safe, secure and easy access to various areas of the structure.

The scaffolding was quickly erected, allowing work to progress quickly. Minimal disruption was caused to customers of the Nando's and adjacent areas within the retail park. Once the work was completed, we reversed the process and removed all trace of the scaffold.

How can we facilitate YOUR project with our scaffolding services? Get in touch and let us know.

 

Scaffolding services from Mitchell's

The scope of work carried out by Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd is truly diverse, covering the widest range of building types imaginable from old, listed structures to brand new building projects. Here we look at a unique project we completed.

Yorkshire Bank, Burnley

The Yorkshire Bank building is located on Manchester Road in Burnley, where it stands on a busy corner. When upper-level window decoration work was planned, the owners contacted Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd to provide a comprehensive scaffolding solution to provide safe access.

The time allotted for the project, a single Sunday, meant that we had to work quickly to meet targets. This short working time ensured minimum disruption to passing traffic and allowed the bank to offer completely uninterrupted service to its customers.

The installation of the scaffolding was designed to allow window decoration and replacement to take place quickly and safely. A licence and scaffold permit were obtained through Lancashire Highways due to the unique positioning of the structure.

The scaffolding structure we designed included three fully-boarded lifts at the base to allow rapid, unobstructed access to the building. There was a danger of escaping debris causing injury to passing pedestrians and so debris nets were installed to prevent this from occurring.

A final safeguard was provided in the form of a fan, which was run in to the full perimeter at the lowest point. Ladder access was built at each level and ladder traps installed. To ensure complete stability, the whole scaffolding structure was firmly tied to the building.

Find out more about our past projects in the 'Portfolio' section of our website and get in touch with our skilled technical team for further information on our scaffolding services.

 

Scaffolding Careers: Be the Best with CISRS

At Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd, safety is our number-one priority. That's why we insist that all of our operatives hold an up-to-date CSCS (Construction Skills Certificate Scheme) or CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) card.

As the industry-leading scaffold training scheme for more than 40 years, the CISRS is the 'preferred scaffolding qualification of all the major organisations including CSCS, NASC, HSE, Build UK, UNITE and the largest scaffold systems manufacturers'. There are in excess of 60,000 CISRS cardholders in the UK, with a further 5,000 holders overseas.

The CSCS delivers training and qualifications across the construction industry. Once trained and qualified, course attendees are issued with a card that shows they are competent to carry out the relevant work in a safe, informed and effective manner. It is used to prove skills to a potential employee such as Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd, who can then guarantee that safety is always of the most crucial importance.

Though possessing a valid CSCS card is not currently a legal requirement in the UK, Mitchell's Scaffolding insist that all of our operatives carry one. We need to be certain that our operatives are fully competent in their work, allowing us to maintain our impressive record of unmatched safety levels in our varying workplaces.

We are always seeking to extend our workforce with intelligent, focused and dedicated operatives. For more information about working with us, check out our 'Careers' page and get in touch with our team.

 

Scaffolding for Housing Contracts

Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are often involved with work on housing contracts, delivering our signature collection of scaffolding services to facilitate new-build as well as renovation work. Below are details of one such contract that we have successfully carried out.

Browsholme Estate, Burnley

Browsholme is a large estate adjacent to Turf Moor, the home of Burnley Football Club. The estate comprises a mixture of houses and flats, many of which required major refurbishment work. To allow the various joiners, builders and engineers to gain safe, easy access to relevant areas, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd were called upon to provide a professional scaffolding solution.

The project was a challenging one, with issues such as narrow/restricted access, parking limitations, time constraints and the need to disturb residents as little as possible. Working closely with site and contract management ensured that we were able to get around the many issues, solving problems as we went.

All of the scaffolds we provided were equipped with full elevation brick guards on each working platform, along with handrails on every step. Where render works required, internal handrails were also provided. The ladder access presented a security issue and so was fully secured at the end of each working day.

Discover more of our works in the 'Portfolio' section of our website!

 

Blackburn Central Library

Though Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd are involved with construction, renovation and restoration projects all over the UK, we are never happier than when we are working right here in Lancashire, improving our local area. As well as delivering scaffolding solutions in domestic and industrial situations, we have also been involved with many municipal projects, from hospitals and schools to churches, town halls and even an aqueduct!

One of the municipal projects we have been proud to work on was at Blackburn Central Library. The dual-phase project, with a budget of £2m, was designed to remove damaged cladding before restoring the original 1920s facade of the building.

Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd kicked off the project by providing a sturdy scaffold to permit safe removal of the link bridge connecting the library with King George's Hall. As the bridge was gradually removed, we extended our scaffold to allow building repair work to begin, using separate towers to link each platform level.

Phase two of the project involved erecting a large 7-lift scaffold that ran the entire length of Town Hall Street. The working space was particularly restricted, necessitating a bespoke plan to enable beamed elevations to be run in. Monarflex sheeting was used to enclose the entire elevation, projecting adjacent properties.

Discover more of our past projects in the 'Portfolio' section of our website.

 

Happy New Year from Mitchell's!

Happy New Year from Mitchell's!

It's hard to believe that another year has gone by yet here we are right on the cusp of 2019. We would like to wish a happy new year to all of our clients and say a big thank you for your custom over the past year. Here's to many more!

2018 has been a pretty crazy year in terms of the weather but construction and renovation work must continue regardless. That has meant that all of the staff here at Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd have been kept busy designing and implementing bespoke scaffolding and site access projects.

The early months of the year are one of our busiest times here at Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd and we expect 2019 to be no exception. Make sure you stay in touch with what we're up to all year round by joining us on social media and subscribing to our monthly, feature-packed newsletter.

Once again, we wish you and your loved ones a very happy, prosperous and constructive 2019.

 

Scaffolding Services

Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd offer a wide and diverse variety of scaffolding services. This means that an equally wide and diverse variety of projects are completed with our help; from hospitals to learning establishments and everything in between, we can design and supply the most effective scaffolding solutions tailored to individual specifications.

Wesham Hospital, Kirkham 

Over a period of several years, the facade of Wesham Hospital building has suffered from slight movement issues. To prevent any further movement and render the building safe for use, a shoring-up remedial project was proposed which necessitated the erection of scaffolding.

Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd designed and delivered a complete scaffolding solution for the project. As the structure was required to stand for more than 12 months, a particularly substantial design was required. Scaffold inspections take place every week to ensure everything is in order and fencing has been erected around the site to prevent unauthorised access.

St Mary's College, Blackburn

Extensive repointing work was required to the facade and chimney stack of St Mary's College, necessitating scaffolding which was constructed in three phases. The college is located in a residential area and so hoarding to the full base on both elevations was quickly put in place, along with effective debris netting. A gated entry point offers secure access, negating the need for constant removal and reattachment of the fixings.

Wherever the building and whatever the project, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd have got the right solution. Browse our portfolio to see more examples of the diverse work we do and get in touch with our team for information and advice.

 

Temporary Roofs: Protection from Winter

The winter does not provide favourable weather conditions for construction and renovation work though of course many projects are essential and must continue regardless. For the benefit of such projects, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd delivers a professional collection of solutions, one of which is temporary roofs.

Much of the UK has been subject to heavy rain in recent days, preventing many sites from being able to function and thus preventing build target times from being met. These overruns and the standing time are costly; all of the problems can be successfully avoided with weather protection in the form of a temporary roof from Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd.

Whether a single roof or a complete building and wherever the location, we can create the perfect temporary roof design for any project. We utilise the most modern, effective roofing systems to ensure the ideal solution that will provide proper protection, containment or a combination of both. No matter whether the roof is of any shape from pitched to polygonal, Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd guarantee a professional result every time.

Health and Safety is of course of great importance to us here at Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd. That's why we ensure and guarantee that all of our scaffolders are fully trained to always adhere to the latest health and safety regulations and that they carry official, up to date CSCS cards.

For more information about how a temporary roof could let YOUR project continue this winter, get in touch with our team today.  

 

Scaffolding Services: The Mitchell's Collection

Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd offer a wide range of scaffolding and related services to our clients. Our emphasis is on providing the ultimate combination of cost-effectiveness, practical value and safety and all of our services are guaranteed to be delivered in the most professional manner. Our services include:

Scaffold Supply, Hire and Erection

Our client base is large and extremely diverse, covering many sectors across the spectrum of industry. We use scafftags, handover certificates, method statements and risk assessments to ensure that we consistently deliver the very best levels of safety and service. We own and operate a comprehensive collection of access equipment to suit any application; the collection includes scaffolding tubes, boards and fittings, staging boards, netting, propping, rubbish chutes, safety gates, ladders and much more.

Temporary Roofs

The weather can make or break a project; downtime due to bad weather is clearly more problematic during the autumn and winter months. We use state-of-the-art technology to create temporary roofs on all kinds of buildings, whatever their shape, location or other requirements may be. This allows for work to continue unhindered, ensuring that time and cost targets can be easily met.

Stair Towers and Staircases

Allowing for quick, easy and safe access to elevated points, our stair systems are simple to erect and allow you to get started working in minutes.

Allow Access Towers

Mounted on quality castor wheels, our alloy access towers deliver the ultimate in on-site mobility. These towers are suitable for a wide range of applications from construction to decoration and maintenance.

These are just some of the professional scaffolding services and equipment available at Mitchell's. Browse our website to discover more.

 

Whesham Hospital Design Scaffold

The fully designed scaffold at Wesham hospital in Kirkham is no fully signed off the scaffold is due to remain in place for up to 18 months
 

Scaffold gangs wanted

Mitchell's Need 2 x 2+1 Gangs to scaffold and Drive 7.5 ton wagons immediate start available call 01254 392100 local contracts Blackburn Accrington and Burnley areas
Cards are essential
 

Carded Scaffolders needed, Scaffolder Drivers

Mitchell's are looking to recruit CISRS Scaffolders and scaffolder drivers or Labourer Drivers  you need to hold an in date Scaffolder  card with a minimum of 12 months in the industry wagon drivers to be over 25 and able to drive a 7.5 ton vehicle. We have immediate starts available 
 
 

More high winds

The Lancashire area is once again on the receiving a battering from strong winds all scaffolders work halted gotta keep our guys safe,  working at height safely is always a priority, 
 

High winds

The high winds in the Accrington and surrounding areas have driven a lot of inquires our way in the last week,  with new contracts starting on Monday when questions raised over safety in high winds have been asked we always state the Clamping down of scaffold boards has always been part of our day to day working, keeping our operatives and the contractors who utilize the scaffolds safe is our top priority. 
 

Urgently required Scaffolder and scaffolder Drivers

Mitchells are looking for Scaffolder Drivers or Driver Labourers to start work you will beworking in the Accrington Blackburn and Burnley Areas  on established contracts you must hold a current CSCS card Call Karen or Dawn on 01254392100 for an Immediate start
 

We Have Moved | New Address in Accrington

Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd

Unit 2A

Moorfield Drive

Moorfield Industrial Estate

Accrington

Lancashire

BB5 5WG

 

Former Cellar Bar Blackburn

Blackburn's former public house The Cellar bar is receiving a full on face lift . Mitchell's have installed a fully boarded scaffold to accommodate all the regeneration works. 
 

Temporary stairs

No matter what the project scaffold, may surprise you.   When access out of a temporary building was required, the solution was put in place in the format of a stair tread and scaffold.
 

Part 2 and Advanced

Experienced Part 2 and advanced scaffolders to work Accrington , Burnley & Blackburn Call Karen or Dawn on 01254 3921900
 

Scaffolders Required

We are expanding

To accomodate the new contracts  Mitchells need More Scaffolders 

Experienced scaffolders required for immediate start in Accrington call our office and speak to Karen or Dawn on 01254 392100

 

Expansion and Re-Location

Mitchell's are Moving  our continued Growth has generated the need for moer space 
 

Yorkshire Bank scaffold Manchester Road Burnley

 

Hyndburn Social Housing contract in March

Got the go-ahead and underway in March of this year this contract is set to run for up to 4 years with a steady turnaround of scaffold following completion of each property.
 

Turf Moor's Browsholme Site Burnley

Work on the Tenanted Estate adjacent to Burnley Football clubs hallowed ground Turf Moor is now well underway as the next stage of property improvement continues.

 

Burnley Water Treatment Plant

 

Blackburn hospice, between Christmas 15 and the New year 16

 

Mitchell's Five A Side Football

Following last Wednesdays slaughter Mitchell's redeemed ourselves with a victory at Blackburn's DW Soccer Dome. No substitutions  were made at all during the game and  Antony our goal keeper made a fantastic save stopping a hard hit penalty. 

Goal scorers
Scott Mitchell 1
Stuart Mitchell 1
Scott Chinary 4
Tommy Aspin 1

The final score 7-2   
 

Mitchell's Thomas Cook at the Pride Parade

Mitchell's had a great day at the Manchester Pride Procession over the weekend. Thomas Cook team and Scootch followed Sir Ian  McKellen on rout through Manchester's City Centre. Hundreds of thousands of delighted onlookers lined the city streets  to watch the parade and Mitchell's were delighted to be part of the event
 

Timber frame is up and Running Chorley

The Timber Frame New Build Site Chorley is well and truly under-way, all  3 Plots are ready to go on new social housing project 
 

North West Reigional Construction Awards

Mitchell's are Pleased to announce our entry into this year’s Northwest Regional Construction Awards  has seen Mitchell’s Short listed in 2 category’s. Leadership and Development and Health & Safety

After a hard fought Final Mitchell's  won the coveted Health and Safety Award

 

Part 1 Training

Chris Payne has begun his 2 week basic part 1 scaffolder training course at Training 2000 this week MD Stuart Mitchell is wishing him all the best
 

Part 2 Qualification, Chris Warbrick

Chris Warbrick has successfully undergone his part 2 scaffolding qualification . with the 2 day assessment planned Mitchell's MD Stuart Mitchell Gives Chris a resounding pat on the back 
 

Training session 3

Training session 3 in the yard is complete and the Peter Pan's of this Session have taken their flying lessons and have their feet back firmly on the ground   
 

Huncoat and Great Harwood

The latest update to the Mitchell's Website has now been uploaded giving an overview of scaffold works for roof render and chimney scaffolds
 

Big Bertha has arrived BIG BERTHA.

We have grown the fleet to 9 vehicles including our latest 21 Tonne wagon.

When planning for the company growth, Director Stuart put himself through his HGV driving test along with 2 of our scaffolder drivers We have also made provision for a 4th member of our  team to take his test in June  2015.

 

 

Scaffolders Drivers and Laborers

With the new contracts starting 5th January 2015 we are now looking for more Experience men to Join our current gangs
To apply for these vacancy's you must hold a Current CSCS card and experience within the  scaffolding industry  
Call Karen or Dawn on 01254 392100 
Qualified Scaffolders Labourers and Drivers required Immediate and January starts
 

Scaffolders Needed

With the new contracts starting 5th January 2015 we are now looking for more Experience men to Join our current gangs

To apply for these vacancy's you must hold a Current CSCS card and experience within the  scaffolding industry

Call Karen or Dawn on 01254 392100 

Qualified Scaffolders Labourers and Drivers required Immediate and January starts

New Labourer started this morning 18/12/14 we still need more 

 

11th November. A brief thankyou...

A brief thankyou to all the service men and women who gave so much so that we could enjoy the freedom we have today. from all at Mitchell's Scaffolding
 

Training

More hands on training for Scaffolding Operatives
 

Library in Blackburn. Works are underway

Scaffold inspection undertaken  21st  Oct 14  saw sheeting had performed well in high winds with 1 small area in need of replacement on Blackburn Library 

 

Blackburn Train Station, Lancashire Telegraph

Mitchell's have been installing the scaffolding to access the roof area in the main Foyer a fully designed crash deck to enable pedestrians safe access below the works being undertaken, as part of Blackburn Town Centre Renewal.  

As Seen in the Lancashire Telegraph Friday 3rd of October.
 

Folly clough Brook

Fully designed Scaffold, installed in Crawshawbooth for the raising of river/brook bank saw its 3rd install on the 11th Aug following the Amber weather warnings
 

Latest Social Housing Contract draws to a Close

A total of 39 houses have undergone a mixture of Roofing works pointing and render to see this small estate in Oswaldtwistle .

    
 

Part 2 and Advanced Scaffolders needed

Mitchell's are looking for  experienced Part 2 Scaffolders and Advanced scaffolders for ongoing contracts running across the Northwest
you will be reporting to the Mitchell's Accrington Yard.

Hours of work 7:30 am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday. with overtime and weekends available immediate start 

Current CISRS cards

With new contracts being awarded to Mitchell's on a weekly basis Mitchell's are looking for reliable and experienced Scaffolders to join our highly motivate teams, call Karen or Dawn on 01254 392100 
 

Scaffolders on the road 9th June

Our guys are working in Little-borough OL15  and in Waddington getting scaffold up for home owners to undertake pointing on his cottage lets hope the weather holds off also we are Busy getting the the 6th lift down at Blackburn Library, then striking in Accrington on the hospital, Lime Road, Whalley road on to Rishton.
The office staff are putting the final touches to a number of tenders so its busy time all round
 


 

Tuesday 15th Out and About. Scaffold on Accrington's

Today's work is relatively local  seeing yet more scaffold on

Accrington's Victoria Hospital,

The final scaffold element removed from St Pauls Church On Plantation Street

Langho will see the full striking of the scaffold at the Woodlands

We have also had 3 collections from the Mitchell's Yard of the Trusty Aluminium Towers

Too home owners making the most of the Easter break for undertaking a little DIY

Accrington's Victoria Hospital,  is having a scaffold erected on another section of the old building for roof and pointing  with all lifts fully boarded.

The final scaffold element removed from St Pauls Church On Plantation Street.

Langho will see the full striking of the scaffold at the Woodlands having been installed for the home owner to give access for replacement barge board the job is now complete 

We have also had 3 collections from the Mitchell's Yard of the Trusty Aluminium Towers Too home owners making the most of the Easter break for undertaking a little DIY

 

Wednesday Workload 9th April

Lancashire seems to be alternating between cavity wall insulation and the
 installation of new fascias and soffits. 
For company's  looking to install contact Mitchell's on 01254 392100 
Over the past few months Mitchell's have erected dozens of scaffolds for this 
type of work. and would like to do more.Wilpshire Blackburn is to set see a scaffold on  3 elevations of a semi detached home. the scaffold is to allow safe access for painting and new barge-boards

While Loughclough will see a detached home fully encased in scaffold for its new barge-boards.

Colne is also set for a similar scaffold to install their new fascias and soffits
 
But Leicester road in Blackburn is bucking this trend having scaffold for solar panel maintenance.

Both types of work are welcome    
 

Tuesday 8th April out and about

The Aspinall arms out at Mitton near Whalley has had all the scaffold removed unavailing the new and very polished exterior  this tastefully renovated public house will be ready to welcome new customers within the month, the new owners have invested on both the internal and external aspects of the property  as a result The Aspinall Arms once again  stands proud  in its rural setting.

The new build house in Wiswell also saw a large portion of scaffold removed and altered to accommodate the rendering to the back and gable of the property and the front where the new driveway and landscaping are due to start .

Mitchell's men also struck the scaffold to the Factory on Weir street  where the scaffold had been erected for the roofing works, the site ran along the side the culvert carrying the river Blake-water, making the transportation of equipment a somewhat difficult task.

 
 

Mondays New Starter trained up

Mitchell's Latest operative Dylan has undertaken his Part one scaffolder Training Course at Blackburn's Training 2000.

The two week course is now awaiting his work based evidence submission to finalize his qualification.

Having worked with Mitchell's on and off from leaving school this training has sealed his position giving him the polished edge to the skills he has previously gained.

  Stuart Mitchell Managing Director said that Training was a vital part of the scaffold industry, and when asking Dylan" what aspect of the training did you learn from the most" Dylan said "the load weights of scaffold fittings and the importance of why scaffolds are erected specifically with the load capacity for the job"  

Stuart was very pleased to hear Dylan had gained a genuine understanding from his training and has set the ball rolling for a second operative to undertake his part 1 in May this year.
 

Preston

Our guys are now over halfway through the erecting and stripping scaffold on the Ingol Estate in Preston.
The scaffold is being installed as edge protection while the main contractors replace the all the old and worn railings from the flats.
This is quite a fast paced job calling for excellent co-ordination with site agent, installers and Mitchell's.
 
The expectation is that the staircase balustrades will be arriving on site any day now with and end date to clear site in a little over 1 week meaning the site is running to schedule.
 
More work with contractors like this always be welcome.
 
Having Completed all the Erecting to the Balustrades a lot of the edge protection is being removed with an expected site clearance date 28th March

Delays in the manufacture of the balustrades had a knock on effect, seeing the 5 remaining scaffolds having to remain on site until the last batch arrived for the contractors to install.
The site is now complete and the scaffold fully removed slightly longer than anticipated  
 

New Scaff tools arrive

Mitchell's scaffolders and trainees have been having a spring order session for; new spanners, belts, bubbles and alike. The advanced scaffolders have opted for Aircraft Alloy handles and in some cases they've  coloured handles. Heavy duty frogs have been another one of the main orders, we have also had a couple of full belts put through, so all the guys are fully kitted out once again.  The new tools were ordered over the past few weeks with the last batch arriving this morning. 




 

Thusday out and about, Busy Busy Busy

Today's working schedule has again been full  with works in Clayton, Accrington, Darwen, Hasslingdon, Barrow-ford and Preston
 
The scaffolding work to the Flats on Elder court  is continuing on the 3 block for roof works
 
Darwen  we have struck 3 scaffolds at 3 different terrace house addresses where scaffolding was erected for chimney Flue installation 
 
Accrington Victoria has also had additional works for pointing
 
In Haslingdon have had to install an extensive scaffold round and over 2 large bay windows to enable the contractor to re-lead the roofs at  3 levels

Preston saw a small detached house having new render with the wrap round set back  to accommodate

And tomorrow is looking the same  
 

 

Wednesday Work Load

Today we have scaffold gangs working in Clitheroe, Mitton, Wiswell, Clayton, Nelson and Shiply

Clitheroe will see a full wrap round scaffold to a large detached property for roofing works 

The Aspinall Arms public house is nearing the end of it's extensive re-refurbishment with the chimney scaffold being removed, work above and around the smoking shelter completed allowing for this section of the scaffold to be removed and a few alterations on the remaining scaffold to be undertaken to allow for the last few areas to have the finishing touches.

The Phased work to a New Build Detached house in Wiswell will see another section of scaffold struck and alterations made "accommodating the different trades on site"

Clayton is to see the table lifts added to progressive work on a detached house extension.

In Nelson, Neighbours to a property that has had roofing works undertaken utilising Mitchell's Scaffolding, are to have their house front and roof works undertaken by the same contractor, so as one scaffold comes down we will be be re-erecting the house next door,  reducing carbon emissions and travel.

Then on to  Shippley where Cavity wall insulation was installed, 2 of the elevations had areas in need of access, 1 side  of the property had a large glass roofed conservatory and an adjoining porch to span and the 2nd an attached garage. 

All in all a good and well planed day            
 

Operatives collect work Based Evidence

Jordan Birtwell came to work with Mitchell's scaffolding for his school work experience as a 15year old in 2009 Stuart Mitchell spotted his potential.

Jordan began working with Mitchell’s again in 2013  and after a few splutters got himself on track

He is now collating his work based evidence in readiness for under-taking his scaffolding part 1 qualification expected to be in April of this year.

Having worked on some very demanding projects we are confident that he will be successful.  

 

Work on Flats in Huncoat

Mitchell's began work on Wednesday 19th Feb erecting scaffold for roofing works as part of the Hyndburn homes repair scheme .

The second block is all but finished,  we are working with the main contractor to ensure all works are running to schedule. 

Mitchell's Operative Take  a break  and photo the second block we are now well under-way on the 3rd block 
 

Blackburn Library

Mitchell's started to remove the first section of scaffold revealing the original façade of this magnificent building. Having a tantalizing glimpse of what's to come adds to the overall anticipation.  

The new look is restricted to one section at present, an extensive section of the Northgate elevation scaffold is to remain which will be linked to the next phase set to run the length of Town Hall Street elevation. 

 

CHAS CONSTRUCTIONLINE AND SAFE CONTRACTOR

Mitchell's are pleased to say all our SSIP accreditations are now in place

Mitchell's have maintained our accreditations  for over 5 years with renewals due on annual basis 

The processes is very necessary in order to maintain Mitchell's standards and also helps to reduce the amount of duplicated health and safety information asked on company PQQ's

 
 

New Office 1

Unfortunately the cabins that we went to look at in Leeds were in a poor state and not suitable for our much needed office space.
 
Stuart Mitchell MD has taken the decision to construct his own.Over crowding in the Office has become a priority and the need for additional room is top of the list.
 
1) Fork lift Hired in to begin moving the scaffold equipment.
 
2) Yard Re-shuffle is now under way
 
We would pick the coldest morning in weeks to start but its all in a good cause
 
3) The scaffolder's will get an area of their own with full exclusive canteen facility's, Drying Room Fridge Microwave and the all important Brewing Facilities.

4) Stuart Mitchell is going to get a proper private office space where he can host meetings and  meet with clients without the constant interruption.

5) And the ladies of the company will get the space to undertake their work.
 
So watch this space more images as it happens  
 
 
 

New office

Today's jaunt on the trail of a new portacabin saw the MD in Leeds looking at 2 cabins sad to say they had seen better days. the transport would have seen the rendered wood disintegrate.
The decision has now been made rather than expand upwards with a cabin a top of our existing cabin , we are going to extend what we have.
 

Rock Fm

On the drive in to work Karen from Mitchell's Scaffolding got a shout out from Rock Fm, all the operatives were pleased she had be to top up the tea and coffee before work so they got a nice hot drink before loading up for work in Great Harwood, Clayton Le Dale and Preston  
 

Stoke on Trent College

We are now on the final round up at the college the final clearance date to be set in for some time in the next 2 weeks 
its all go to get the work signed off
 

Booking CISRS Tests

Booking test for our operatives is not so straight forward following the change to the CITB web site as a company we can no longer just log on and book a number of operatives each on is individual with their own user name and pasword 
not good 20 mins per application 
 

New Foam Padding

the Foam Padding for Doorways arrived at the Yard this morning ready for the Huncoat site Good stuff Thanks Paul
 

Scaffold designer

Very glad to say our long term scaffold designer is back after a break from the trade and still providing a great service  
 

first day of the New Mitchells Blog

Our guys are on the road erecting in Leyland, Widnes Stoke on Trent and Accrington
 

Part 2 qualification

Michael had held a part 1 qualification for over 10 years but on joining Mitchell's in the spring of this year it soon became evident that he had all the skills without the official certification

Within 2 months his course was booked 

Now the qualification affords Mick the opportunity to go forward, honing the scaffolding skill's.

Stuart Mitchell said " to have so much experience without the paper qualification is a shear waste of talent, Michael is now able to sign off the work he has been capable of doing for many years"

 

Mitchell's Highly commended

Mitchell's took home a Highly commended at this years Awards for their commitment to health and safety.

a Total of 14 entrants were vying for this very coveted award.

 

NWCSG

Mitchells have continued our membership with the NWCSG. Stuart Mitchell Managing Director said " the NWCSG is a valuable source of  health and safety information to all aspects of the construction

Our membership gives us all the latest information and provides Mitchell's Scaffolding with the opertunity to interact with other trades within the built envionment through attendance of the monthly meetings, with the oppertunity to discuss and raise questions in regard to issues that affect everyone.

www.nwcsg.org.uk 

 

Training — Advanced Scaffolder

Mitchell's are pleased to announce Scott Mitchell has now passed his training centre side of Advanced scaffolder  training following his 2 week course, and will finalise his Advanced scaffolder status by August of this year. So a big well done from all the staff and operatives at Mitchell's was the order of the day

Scott Mitchell is now undertaking his advanced Scaffolder training at Training 2000 in Blackburn. this is the latest scaffolding training in our annual training plan.

Both Wesley Mcivor and Antony Clayton have already completing their part 2 scaffolder training courses and are now fully accredited Part 2 Scaffolders in January of this year.

 

Acclaim Accreditation

Mitchell's put ourselves forward for this CAPITA run health and safety accreditation in conjunction with our Construction line renewal.

This is the latest health and safety accreditation Mitchell's  have undertaken, with renewals every 12 months as further demonstration to our clients of Mitchell's commitment to best practice within the industry

The process covers every aspect of the work we undertake  covering everything from ladder,and equipment inspections PPE issue and maintainance, recording of information, toolbox talks to name but a few.  
 

Further staff training

Wes McIvor is set to complete his part 2 Scaffolder Training after a 2 year break this is being undertake at Training 2000  Wes had left the trade after taking his part one.

Antony Clayton has completed his part 2  and is awaiting his on site assessment

While Stuart Mitchell MD is in the final 6 months of his Construction HND at Blackburn College.

 

CHAS 12/13

Mitchell's have been awarded our renewal of CHAS accreditation on New Years Day 2013.

Mitchell's have always opted for accreditation with CHAS since applying in 2006.

To be accredited rather than just registered with CHAS Mitchell's had to undertake the annual reviews.

This year however saw changes in the CHAS format now  there is no longer a 2 tier approach and all applicants are required to under go the annual review process and therefore cut out the confusion from a buyers prospective.   Bringing this accreditation in line with other similar SSIP's.

 

Safe Contractor

In The run up to Christmas Mitchell's had our Safecontractor accreditation awarded.

This accreditation has been maintained for over 6 years with our first application Following the arrival of our then newest recruit Karen Turner who took onboard the organising of information and ensuring the company clearly demonstrated the very best of working Practices.

 

Scaffolders required

Immediate Start

Must hold current CISRS card or CSCS card for Labourers

Call Mitchells Office on 01254 392100

 

Construction Line

Mitchell's once again renewed our Membership of Constructionline

 

Advanced Scaffolder Training

Steve is now in receipt of his advanced Certificate with the collation of his work based evidence well underway it won’t be long before his status is fully that of Advanced Scaffolder

Given the role that Steve has played within Mitchell’s over the past 18 months and more the qualification is verification of his skill and ability something our MD and clients are fully aware of

Steve has passed his Training centre Portion of the Advanced Scaffolders training

Stuart MD said “Steve’s hard work has paid off  with the on-site assessment to come and finalisation of his work based evidence Steve is well on the way to the final carded qualification so well done"

 Our latest Training schedule is now well under way with Stephan Bracewell scaffolder with Mitchell's for over 4 years has been booked to take his Advanced Scaffolder NVQ level 3  Qualification in April of this year through our local training provider Training 2000 Blackburn.

Stuart Mitchell MD said " Steve has shown his commitment to the company on many occasions, the time is now right to fully advance him to the next level, providing this training will not only give Steve the training he is suited to it will further show Mitchell's Commitment to improving our workforce when potential clients look for all round quality in a company"

 

Northwest Regional Construction Awards

The Northwest Regional Construction Awards saw the cream of Northwest Companies vying for the accolades in the ten categories in this years Awards. Mitchell’s had made it through in not 1 but 2 categories Leadership & People Development and the SME of the Year Award. 

The evening kicked off with the first award for Leadership & People Development, one of the two awards Mitchells were in contention for. The Award saw the Cruden Group take first place out of the 4 nominees; Blackpool LEP, Lend Lease and Mitchell's Scaffolding,

Though Mitchell's didn’t take the crown Mitchell’s Managing Director Stuart Mitchell said   “ just to make it through to the finals in this category says a lot about my company, the training and working practices we employ makes a big difference to the standard of work we provide, it’s great honour to get this far and the recognition especially given the calibre of entrants is great, I would personally like to congratulate The Cruden Group on their success.

As the evening progressed, the following awards categories saw the Northwest’s Construction elite presented with their prize;

Integration & Collaborative Working Award – Value in Construction, Sustainability Award – Our Legacy, Business Innovation Award, Heritage Award, Contractor of the Year Award, SME of the Year Award, Client of the Year Award, Young Achiever of the Year Award, Project of the Year Award, Local Economic Award .

Though Mitchell's didn’t claim the Small to Medium Enterprise category  the spotlight fell on them when they were selected as one of only 5 companies out of the 45 in attendance to be presented with a “Highly commended”   for the way in which our business processes, people development, collaborative working and finding new ways of working underpin the company.

 Stuart Mitchell and Sharon Turner were delighted to receive this hugely coveted commendation saying  “Wow this was totally unexpected and a real honour for us, knowing that the values we have worked with from the outset are worthy of respect is greatly appreciated. We know how good Mitchell’s are, but to have recognition of this is absolutely fantastic.”

 

Scaffolders celebrate queens jubilee

Scaffolders lancashire

A night of celebration at the 55th Divisional Club Preston on 8th June 2012 is set to be the best yet with

Entertainment from: live band, Piper, Quiz and Last Night of the Proms tickets are priced at just £10 a head for this celebrationand are  available from Phil Copeland. HMP Preston on 07731 617 092.

 

 

 

Scaffolders Summer ball charity

Scaffolding company in accrington lancashire cancer charity event

 

Black Tie Summer Ball at Fulwood Golf Club in aid of Womens Cancer Charities will be held on Friday 29th of June

with a 3 course meal and bar til 1pm.

Entertainment from Soul Diva Louise with disco till late.

Tickets are priced at £25 per head

To find out more or to  book your place for a great night out

Please call Mandy on 07731 617 092

 

 

 

 

 

Finalist's Anounced

Mitchell’s have made it to this years finals of the North West Regional Construction Awards.

The calibre of entrants has been higher than ever, with 10 categories covering Training through to construction projects

Stuart Mitchell said “this is fantastic news , reaching the final in not one but two categories is even better, we have been shortlisted for The Leadership and people Development Award as well as The SME of the Year Award, I know how coveted the awards are."

"I am absolutely delighted to have made it this far and send my congratulations to all this years finalists, for making it to this stage. I look forward to meeting them at the Ceremony on the 31st of May."

 

Cancer Support

A ladies Night in aid of Womens Cancer has been arranged for Friday 23rd March 7:30pm at Greenlands Labour Club Preston

Perfumes, Sweetie Bags , Handbags, Anne Summers, tombola Drag Artist and Dj are all there to support the event with Male strippers as the  Star attraction

So ladies if you are looking for a fun filled night thats all about us this is the place to be  

Tickets are £5.00 if booked and £6.00 on the door, for further information please contact mandyholker@hotmail.co.uk or call 07731617092

Other event include

6th April Fancy Dress

April Cricket Match (date and time to be confirmed)

Football Match in Leyland (date time and Venue to be confirmed)

Curry Night  Wigan Bring your own Booze and wear something pink Location to be Confirmed

Sat 5th May and  Sat 29thy RUN AWAY BRIDE NIGHT a real ale trail from Manchester to Leeds

Fri 1st June Race Night

Fri 29th June Summer Ball at Fullwood Golf Club

Friday 127th July Oscar Night

For details on the above events please contact mandyholker@hotmail.co.uk or call 07731617092

 

 

Solar Panel Installation

Mitchell's have begun work on the next round of scaffolding to houses for solar panel installation in Bradford

With 6 Days to erect all the property’s the work has been phased to match installer’s needs

This also minimises the home owner and tenants disruption to satellite signal

The dismantle process will begin as soon as the first installs are connected  

 

Beat hearder Festival

Mitchell's have supplied and erected the scaffolding requirements for the open air rock festival held annually in Gisburn. The massive graffiti wall is accessed from staircases leading to the staging platform where members of the audience add their own art. The work is undertaken in the run up to the festival antd removed following the last night. This local and ever growing open air event is a fantastic event for all age groups and well worth a visit.

Take a look at their web site for this years line up        www.beatherder.co.uk

 

More solar Panel work

Having now completed the contract for solar panel installation on 82 Property’s in the Blackburn ,Darwen  and Preston area. Started Pre Christmas.

The number of property’s involved have all been on a strict time frame with up to 25 property’s to be erected in any one day

Mitchell's are on the lookout for more. Given the vast experience of our staff (all of whom have their CISRS cards) on the needs for solar panel installs we know there will be other company’s out there that will need a similar service and a phone call is all it takes to get the ball rolling

Call 01254 392100 and begin working with us.

 

The Telegaph Finals

Mitchell's take home Highly commended in the Team of the year award,MD Stuart Mitchell says" although we lost out to a grat company in Thwaites Brewary regardless of the outcome the Team at Mitchell's Scaffolding are the best and I am very proud of their achivement." 
 

Scaffolders support Chairity

Once again Mitchells scaffolding in lancashire rose to the occasion at a local charity event organised by Oakleigh Dental Centre in Oswaldtwistle.  The event took place at the newly refurbished Trickys public house on Thwaites Road.

Mitchell’s sponsored the event providing a wagon for decoration with bunting and banners to promote the event. Providing the sacks for racing and on the ground support throughout the night with the scaffolders in burnley and blackburn manning the various tombola’s and stalls.

The night was a great success with over £600 raised,  egg and spoon, sack and three legged races aimed at adults and children all added to the fun.

As ever the competitive nature of scaffolders came to the fore as the staff vied for first place in all the racing. 

 

Rochdale College

The extensive scaffolding requirements at the main entrance to Rochdale College posed a numbers of access issue.

The objective to ensure safe and continuous access for college students and members of the faculty.

The finished scaffold has created a safe and people freindly rout too the main campus and allows the main contractor a safe platform to work on.

Create a temporary disabled access.

Erect cradle support above entrance.

Link disabled ramp to access the entrance spanning the sunken service road. 

All aspects of the work undertaken allowed the college to operate with minimum disruption during this very busy time.

Working very closely with the main contractor Mitchell's ensured that the time scale was appropriate to both the college and contractor needs.

Extensive beam work spanning the entrance foyer and patioed areas had to be put in place forming a cradle over the entrance before work could begin cutting away the existing handrail.

The spanning of the service road required the use heavy duty steel ladder beam, additional handrails, the structure to be boarded out prior to the addition of Ply wood, removing any potential trip hazard and finaly a none slip cover is to be added for pedestrians. 

Once complete the link had to be made from the temporary wheelchair / disabled ramp.  

The linking of all 3 aspects called for accurate workmanship with no tollerance for any deviation to the design.

The overall covering required smooth precession joints from the scaffold boards to allow plywood facing to be laid prior to the anti slip top covering being laid.

 

Lancashire Scaffold Company

Mitchells Scaffolding win second place by dressing up their scaffold wagon as Blackpool Lancashire theme for the Accrington Lions Community Carnival Procession 2011.

The Essence of Blackpool theme included characters from the traditional Blackpool of yester-year with Punch (Steve Bracewell Supervisor) Judy (Sharon Turner Chief Executive Officer), The Circus Ring Master ( Neil Heap Supervisor), The Traditional English Holiday Maker (Mark Palmer Supervisor) The House of Horrors Freddie Cruger (Stuart Mitchell MD)  Stag Night Morph man (Marcus Hargreaves Family Friend) Blackpool Donkey ( Laura Hargreaves Family Friend) The Old-fashioned Strong Man( Karen Turner Business Development Executive) The Laughing Clown (Darren Hargreaves Former Employee) Mystic Gypsy Rose lee (Joanne Hargreaves Family Fried) and all the children as Pirates, Candy Floss , Alice in Wonderland, The White Rabbit, Playing Cards, Pasaje Del Terror, Hen Night Girls. Our scaffolders erected blackpool tower out of our scaffolding tubes.

This took a lot of effort with the MD Stuart and his staff working until midnight on the 17th and in again at 6 am the following morning to get the float ready but the effort was worth it, with a great mix of people and characters  a fun day was had by all and the winning of second prize was the icing on the cake.

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Award Winners 2011

Young Uns Award 2011 - Stuart Mitchell has been awarded winner of the Young Business Person of the Year 2011.

Stuart Was also shortlisted for the one to watch 2011 award.

After a few close calls Stuart has walked away with the top Accolade Young Business Person of the year.

The competition was hard fought with excellent entry’s from some extremely good young business men from across the Lancashire Region. Stuart wants to Congratulate all the winners of the various categories and those who came so close.

On behalf of the University of Central Lancashire and Lancashire Business View!

Young Business Person Award, presented by Judith Dugdale, Moore and Smalley

Winner: Stuart Mitchell - Mitchell’s Scaffolding Ltd

Winner: Stuart Mitchell - Mitchell’s Scaffolding Ltd

  • Highly Commended:   Malcolm Ireland – Napthens Solicitors
  • Chris Boyle – Napthens Solicitors
  • Kenneth Cheung – BEEcycle Ltd
  • Rob Scott – Denwa Communications (Denwa Ltd)
 

North West Reigonal Construction Awards

After a Champagne Reception the award for SME of the year deservedly went to Rochdale based Jackson, Jackson & Sons. Following the announcement Stuart said that although it was disappointing not to have won, he was pleased to see the award go to such a impressive competitor.

Mitchell's Have made the Regional finals for The North West Construction award against very stong competition .

Managing Director Stuart Mitchell said ," we understand all the entrants have put forward very strong applications and are worthy contenders", " I am very proud  to have made it this far and send my congratulations to all the entrants on reaching this stage.

 

Watch Mitchells Video

 

Scaffolding Qualification

Mitchell's have recently had two scaffolders pass their NVQ part 1 scaffolding course at Training 2000 in blackburn. Danny who has been with the company from November 2010 had shown a drive to succeed and that has paid off with his part 1 NVQ in scaffolding taken at Training 2000 in Blackburn March 2011. Adam who joined the company in January was also successfull in his NVQ level 1

 

Managing Director Now IOSH certified

 

Blackburn's Capita

 

North West Construction Safety Group

 

Mitchell's Support

The Maddison Allen appeal supported by Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd held a Sportsman's Dinner at Blackburns Ewood Park.

Neil Razor Ruddock was the guest speaker for the evening and entertained the guests with tales from his footballing career. Razor was seated with Mitchell's Scaffolding staff and friends. following his entertaining speach Razor sat and joked with Stuart who gave every bit as good as he got.    

 

Mitchells Help Raise money for Madison Allan

Raffel Tickets Prizes and clothes donated by Coronation Street stars raised more than £2,000 for The Madison Allan Appeal on 9th October 2010.

Mitchells Scaffolding workers, helped out providing security in the shape of black tie and tuxedo-clad, they also helped out selling raffel tickets raising money at the event.

Actress Shobna Gulati, who plays Sunita Alahan in the ITV soap, collected dresses, tops and accessories from fellow Corrie cast members and sold them at a stall in Darwen Market. 

Madison, six, of Lord’s Crescent, Lower Darwen, needs money to pay for treatment outside the UK for her rare form of cancer, neuroblastoma.

An appeal to pay for last-chance treatment has so far raised £62,000, but more is needed.

Shobna, who has been a friend of Madison since she was first diagnosed with stomach cancer aged 10 months, sold hundreds of her own items.

Shobna said: "Maddi needs these vital funds to continue her life saving treatment. She is a very brave girl who deserves a chance at life back home with her family in Darwen."

Customers were treated to five-minute celebrity style consultations from glamour guru Armand Beasley, who has worked on Gok Wan’s How To Look Good Naked.

And the day ended with a raffle of Coronation Street 50th anniversary memorabilia, including Stan and Hilda's flying ducks and limited edition prints of Deidre behind bars.

The Madison Allan Appeal. 

 

Construction Ambassador Representative

Karen Turner is now qualified to represent Mitchell's Scaffolding as part of the construction industry.This new part of Karen's role should assist students leaving full time education make an informed decision about their career path. Her Knowledge of the trade and the skill's required will go a long way to gaining a clear understanding, should you want more details or would like to host a presentation at your school, college or  group call Mitchell's on 01254 392100 and we will be happy to discuss things further.

 

Simian Risk

Simian Risk Management Limited is an occupational health and safety consultancy and training provider for the construction industry, specialising in access and work at height.

http://www.simian-risk.com/index.html

 

Greater Manchester CIOB Annual Dinner

Mitchells Scaffolding attend the The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) annual dinner event. The event was held at the lowery theatre, Salford Quays, greater manchster. Guest speaker was Rod Woodward, Winner of the "Encore Comedian of the year". 

Guests on the Regenerate Table included:

Stuart and Sharon of Mitchells Scaffolding Ltd, Gary of Rosslee Construction Ltd, Dennis of ROK Group, John of Craig Hambling Ltd, Terry of Brammall Construction, Catherine, David and Jeff of Elevate East Lancashire/Regenerate Pennine Lancashire, Marcus of BAAS Construction Ltd and Ruckshana of Emanuel Whittaker Ltd.

 

Mitchells Scaffolding Sponser Manchester Corrie

Maddi's Magnificent Corrie Caper was organised to raise money for five-year-old cancer sufferer Madison Allan and her family to be able to enjoy a dream holiday at Disneyland Paris. Proceeds from Sunday's show went directly to the travel agents so the family can go away in June 2010.

The soap stars appearing on stage included Andy Whyment (Kirk), Sam Aston(Chesney), Malcolm Hebden (Norris), Steve Huison (Eddie Windass), Debbie Rush(Anna Windass), Jenny McAlpine (Fizz), Kym Marsh (Michelle), Peter Armitage (Bill Webster), Graeme Hawley (John Stape), Jack Shepherd (David Platt),  Scott Wright (Sam Kingston) and Chris Gascoyne (PeterBarlow). There was also a spot of stand-up from Jimmy Cricket, acomedy sketch from Sue Devaney, and opera from BBC Radio Lancashire's John Christos. Everything was held together in fine style by Ted Robbins and the evening raised nearly £4000.

The show had been organised by Shobna Gulati, who plays Sunita in the soap, who has known Madison's family for several years and called on her fellow actors and behind-the-scenes staff for this special event. She came to Thwaites Empire Theatre, Blackburn, Lancashire with help from Anthony Valentine, the venue's patron.

More photos of the show can now be seen viewed on Flickr pages. Thanks to Lancashire Telegraph for the above picture of the cast with Madison.

 

Managing Director Meets Chris Akabusi

Staurt Mitchell, Managing Director of Mitchells Scaffolding meets Chris Akabusi at local Lancashire Business Meeting.

 

Accrington School

Mitchells Scaffolding arrange for local Accrington School pupil to help gain work experiene in the scaffolding trade for a 2 week placement.

 

Happy Easter Lancashire

Mitchells Scaffolding Ltd would like to wish everyone a Happy Easter.

 

Accrington  Fleetwood   Macclesfield Rochdale 
Barnoldswick Gisburn Manchester Rossendale 
Blackburn Great Harwood Morcambe

Sabden

Blackpool Haslingden Nelson Salford
Bolton,  Heywood Oldham Simmonstone 
Burnley Hyndburn Oswaldtwistle Skipton
Bury  Lancashire Pendle Stockport
Chorley Lancaster Preston Todmerdon
Clitheroe Liverpool Rawtenstall  Warrington
Colne Longridge Ribble Valley Whalley
Darwen Leeds Ribchester Wigan 

 

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Scaffolding in Burnley

Mitchells scaffolding ltd have been approved by burnley county council to carry out scaffold contracts throughout burnley in lancashire.

 

Accrington, Lancashire Carnival

Mitchell's Scaffolding transform wagon and staff into Peter Pan the movie, for the Acrington, lancashire Carnival.

 

SAFEContractor Accreditation

Top Safety Accreditation for Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd

We have recently received Accreditation from SAFEContractor, a programme which recognises very high standards of health and safety practise amongst UK Contractors.

SAFEContractor is operated by international safety, health and environmental risk management specialists, the National Britannia Group.  The system is applicable to most sectors - but particularly users of contract services.

Darren Hughes, Operations Director for SAFEContractor at National Britannia said, "Major organisations can no longer run the risk if employing contractors who are not able to prove that they have sound health and safety policies".

"More companies need to understand the importance of adopting good risk management in the way that Mitchell's Scaffolding Ltd has done.  The firm's high standard has set an example"

Under the SAFEContractor system, businesses undergo a vetting process, which examines health and safety procedures and their track record for safe practice.

Companies meeting the required high standard are included on the database on the SAFEContractor Web Site.

 

Mitchells Scaffolding Sponsor Burnley

Mitchell Scaffolding Staff and friend dress up as famous cartoon characters which were ll designed and sewn by Mitchells very own New business executive Karen Turner.

characters included: Shrek, Minnie Mouse, wizard of OZ Dorothy and Scarecrow, Peter Pan, Tinkerbell, Pinocchio ,Snow white, hercules, Pocahontas, ursula the sea witch and many more...

 

Lancashire Evening Telegraph

Mitchell’s celebrated their success with style. 

Mitchell’s Scaffolding is based on quality and service.

Both Stuart and Sharon understand that team work is the key. The staff have worked hard to achieve this level of recognition and we are proud of their accomplishments. To ensure that this level continues Mitchell’s works with training providers across the Northwest ensuring their staff get the best training.

All Mitchell’s staff are given the opportunity to undergo training, increasing their skills and knowledge that will further represent the company. The training is sourced and funded by Mitchell's whether H. G. V. or Apprenticeships.

From the outset Stuart wanted a company that created loyalty from its workforce and respect from other company’s within the construction industry. This has clearly been achieved and this award is an indication of what can be achieved.

The Trophy and certificate now take pride of place.

 

Mitchells scaffolding win second prize

The Mayor of Blackburn, Lancashire presented Mitchell’s scaffolding and Darwen Youth Group with 2nd prize for their entry in this year’s darwen Gala.

22 entrants vied for the coveted first place. Mitchell's with their first ever entry themed around Hollywood movie stars past and present worked hard to put this together.

The Youth Group based at Darwen Vale High School, Lancashire meet every Wednesday, to learn the techniques for screen acting with Scott Wright of Coronation Street, Manchester fame heading the Group. 

Mitchell’s had the opportunity to support the group according to Spokes person Karen Turner and became involved thanks to Granddaughter Ashley Turner’s involvement with the group.

Business Executive, Karen Turner, pictured being presented with the award .

Karen said “the day was a great success and being awarded second prize was the icing on the cake” the youth group and Mitchell's worked very hard to put together the float.

Christine Hargreaves, family member and friend, said they were only able to begin dressing the wagon that morning. And due to the distance had to take the vehicle to the start up point before they could begin but the end result had been worth the effort.

 

Welcome to our website!

Welcome,

Hope you like our new Scaffolding company website, Mitchells offer all types of scaffolding:

  • Scaffold tubes, fittings and boards

  • Staging boards

  • Temporary Roofing Systems

  • Staircase Scaffolds

  • Alloy Access Towers

  • Safety Nettings

  • Debris Netting

  • Gin Wheels

  • Rubbish Chutes

  • Safety Gates

  • Edge protection

  • Brickguards  

  • Scaffold Permits

  • Designs

  • Ladders  

 

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