✅ Case Study: Successful Soft Strip Out & Site Clearance – Industrial Unit, Manchester
Client: Redstone Developments Ltd
Location: Trafford Park, Manchester
Sector: Industrial / Commercial
Services Delivered: Soft Strip Out, Asbestos Removal, Site Clearance
Duration: 3 weeks
Completion: On Time & Within Budget
Project Value: £42,000
🧱 Project Overview
In early 2025, W & S Hire Ltd was contracted by Redstone Developments Ltd, a leading commercial property developer, to carry out a full soft strip out, asbestos removal, and site clearance of a large vacant industrial unit in Trafford Park, Manchester. The property was being prepared for a complete refurbishment and repurposing into modern workspace and storage facilities.
The unit, measuring just over 3,500 square metres, had previously been used for manufacturing and warehousing, and still contained outdated M&E systems, mezzanine floors, office partitions, kitchen areas, and contaminated materials.
🔍 Scope of Works
Our team was responsible for:
- Full soft strip out of non-structural elements (partitions, suspended ceilings, floor finishes, fixtures)
- Removal and safe disposal of redundant HVAC, pipework, ducting, and electrical systems
- Asbestos removal (confirmed via R&D survey prior to strip out)
- Disconnection and isolation of live services
- Internal waste segregation and sustainable disposal
- Full site clearance including removal of outdoor waste, shrubbery, and disused structures
⚠️ Challenges Faced
This wasn’t just a simple rip-out. The project came with several challenges:
- Asbestos Risk:
During the initial survey, chrysotile (white asbestos) was identified in floor tiles and pipe lagging within the plant room.
➤ We immediately arranged for a licensed asbestos removal team to isolate and safely remove the hazardous materials, in line with HSE guidelines (CAR 2012). - Tight Turnaround:
The client had a strict 3-week window before the incoming construction team was due on-site.
➤ We created a phased work plan with additional operatives and extended working hours, including weekends, to stay on target. - Live Environment Adjacent:
A functioning business shared a boundary wall, meaning noise and dust levels had to be strictly managed.
➤ We implemented dust suppression, noise-reducing equipment, and worked in split zones to prevent disruption.
🛠️ How We Delivered
We mobilised our soft strip and clearance crew within 48 hours of instruction and quickly set up a safe, compliant work zone. Over the course of three intensive weeks, the following was achieved:
- All asbestos was removed and cleared in the first 5 days with air clearance certification issued on schedule
- Internal strip out completed on time, including manual dismantling of mezzanine structures and plant room decommissioning
- Over 94% of waste diverted from landfill, with segregated skips for metal, plasterboard, wood, and mixed materials
- Outdoor areas fully cleared of fly-tipped waste, vegetation, and broken concrete bases
- Site handed back clean, safe, and ready for refurbishment
We worked closely with Redstone’s project manager, keeping communication open throughout. Daily check-ins ensured full alignment with the construction schedule and no surprises on budget.
📸 Results
✅ Project Completed On Time
✅ Delivered Within Budget
✅ Zero Accidents or Incidents
✅ Full Compliance with HSE & Environmental Regulations
✅ Over 25 tonnes of materials recycled or reused
✅ Positive feedback from the client, neighbouring businesses, and site managers
🗣️ Client Feedback
“W & S Hire Ltd were professional, proactive and a pleasure to work with. Despite a tight timeframe and some asbestos complications, they delivered without a hitch. Their attention to detail and commitment to safety really stood out. We’ll definitely use them again for future strip out and site prep projects.”
— Chris Holland, Senior Project Manager, Redstone Developments Ltd
🤝 Need a Trusted Partner for Strip Out or Site Clearance?
Whether you’re dealing with old offices, retail units, industrial plants or full-scale redevelopments, W & S Hire Ltd delivers efficient, compliant, and cost-effective solutions across the UK.
📞 Call us today for a free, no-obligation quote
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