Client
Scottish Power Energy Networks
Value
£1.9 M
Sectors & Services
Nuclear & Power Concrete Repair Corrosion Control Grouting & Injection Cleaning & Preparation Projects
CRL Scotland was appointed by SP Energy Networks to deliver a specialist concrete repair and protection package to the North Transmission Tower, also known as the Kincardine Tower (XD130), located on the banks of the Firth of Forth. Standing 153.9 metres tall, it is the tallest transmission tower in Scotland and a critical asset within the 275kV electricity network spanning the River Forth, ensuring reliable power transmission across central Scotland.
The tower is situated within the former Kincardine Power Station site, which has been undergoing redevelopment following demolition works completed in 2001. Its foundations comprise driven pre-cast piles grouped beneath five pile caps, all located within the tidal zone of the estuary. Exposure to aggressive marine conditions and tidal influences necessitated a carefully planned programme of structural repairs to safeguard the long-term integrity of this nationally significant energy asset and support effective asset management.
Services Undertaken
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Hydro-demolition to remove deteriorated concrete
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Reinforcement steel inspection and repairs
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Installation of sacrificial anodes for corrosion control
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Dry-spray (gunite) concrete reinstatement
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Delivery of works within tidal constraints
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Environmental protection measures for local wildlife
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Quality-controlled concrete repair works within a marine environment
Delivering repairs within the tidal zone of the Forth estuary required CRL Scotland to apply a highly controlled and technically robust methodology tailored to both the structure and its challenging environment. The works commenced with hydro-demolition to selectively remove deteriorated concrete from the pile caps without inducing vibration or damage to the remaining sound substrate. This technique allowed precise removal around reinforcement while minimising risk to the underlying structure, a critical consideration given the asset’s operational importance.
Following concrete removal, exposed reinforcement steel was inspected and repaired where required to reinstate structural capacity. Particular attention was given to preparing reinforcement surfaces to ensure compatibility with subsequent protection systems. Sacrificial anodes were then installed as part of an embedded corrosion control strategy, providing long-term mitigation against chloride-induced corrosion within the marine environment.
Reinstatement was undertaken using dry-spray concrete, also known as gunite, selected for its suitability in tidal conditions and its ability to achieve high-density, durable repairs with excellent bond characteristics. The dry-spray method enabled controlled application around complex geometries and vertical surfaces of the pile caps, ensuring full encapsulation of reinforcement and anodes. Follow-on blacksmith works were completed to support durability and structural performance.
Throughout the project, works were carefully programmed around tide schedules and delivered under strict environmental controls. Sensitive ecological considerations were paramount, including protection of a known otter holt located beneath the access bridge. CRL Scotland’s experience in structural repairs UK and complex concrete repairs enabled seamless coordination of quality, safety, and environmental compliance, demonstrating the company’s capability to preserve critical infrastructure assets under demanding conditions.
"The Kincardine Tower project really demonstrated what our team does best. Delivering high-quality concrete repairs in a challenging tidal environment required close collaboration with SP Energy Networks and a strong focus on safety, quality, and environmental care. I’m particularly proud of how the team safeguarded the nearby otter holt while completing the works on time and to exacting standards. The professionalism and commitment shown throughout made this complex, vital project a real success."
Murray Soutar | Regional Director (Scotland & Ireland) | CRL
Beyond addressing immediate defects, the project placed strong emphasis on long-term preservation and resilience of the transmission tower foundations. The integration of sacrificial anodes within the repaired concrete provides ongoing corrosion prevention, significantly reducing the risk of future reinforcement degradation in the aggressive tidal environment. Careful surface preparation following hydro-demolition ensured optimal bond between existing substrates and new dry-spray concrete, enhancing durability and structural continuity.
The reinstated concrete repairs, combined with high-quality workmanship and follow-on metalworks, deliver a robust solution designed to extend the service life of the pile caps while reducing future maintenance requirements. By working in harmony with environmental controls and tidal constraints, CRL Scotland ensured repairs were both sustainable and resilient. This approach supports SP Energy Networks’ long-term asset management strategy, safeguarding reliability of the electricity network and reinforcing CRL’s role as a trusted specialist in concrete repairs and protection of critical infrastructure.
