WH SCOTT
Crane Refurbishment at Battersea Power Station
Restoring and repurposing historic turbine hall cranes for a landmark redevelopment project.
Project Snapshot
Client: Battersea Power Station Bandstand Box Project
Location: Battersea Power Station, London, UK
Provider: WH Scott
The Challenge
The redevelopment of Battersea Power Station required the preservation and adaptation of historic crane infrastructure within the iconic turbine halls. These original overhead gantry cranes, dating back to the 1930s, had remained dormant since the site’s decommissioning in the 1980s, presenting both structural and operational challenges.
The project demanded a careful balance between heritage conservation and modern functionality. The cranes needed to be safely decommissioned, cleaned, and in some cases upgraded, while maintaining their historical integrity. In addition, the integration of new features—such as a suspended bandstand structure within an active public space—introduced further complexity in design, safety, and execution.
The Solution
WH Scott delivered a comprehensive programme of crane decommissioning, refurbishment, and modification across multiple turbine halls. The 150-tonne crane in Turbine Hall B was a central focus, undergoing cleaning, decommissioning, and the installation of a modern 50-tonne SWF Krantechnik hoist. This advanced hoist system incorporated inverter control, tandem lifting capability, anti-sway technology, and multiple safety features to ensure precise and reliable operation.
A key innovation was the design, manufacture, and installation of a bespoke “bandstand box” suspended from the crane. Measuring 5.6m by 5.6m and 3.7m high, the structure features three glazed sides made from powerglass®, a first for the UK. This system integrates over 33,000 LEDs within the glass panels, enabling dynamic display capabilities while maintaining high transparency when not in use.
Additional works included full crane surveys, 3D modelling, oil removal, structural cleaning, and repainting. In Turbine Hall A, WH Scott secured and preserved another historic crane while integrating a footbridge beneath it, transforming the structure into a functional architectural feature within the redeveloped space.
The Outcome
Key Results:
- Successful refurbishment and repurposing of multiple historic cranes dating back to the 1930s
- Installation of a modern 50t hoist system with advanced control and safety features
- Delivery of a unique suspended bandstand structure with integrated LED display technology
Additional Notes:
This project represents the first use of powerglass® technology in the UK, combining heritage engineering with innovative commercial and architectural applications.
