Client
Lewisham Homes
Value
£2.1M
Sectors & Services
Buildings Repairs & Refurbishment Concrete Repair Condition Surveys Coatings Membranes Cleaning & Preparation Projects
Milford Towers in Catford, often described as the “Barbican of the South”, is a striking example of post-war British Brutalism, comprising nine residential blocks, 22 commercial units and a busy public marketplace. Originally earmarked for demolition as part of Lewisham Council’s wider regeneration plans, the estate was granted a reprieve in 2015 following a reassessment of its architectural and community value.
In June 2018, CRL was appointed by Lewisham Homes as Main and Principal Contractor to deliver a comprehensive programme of concrete repairs and refurbishment works. The project sought to address long-standing deterioration, safeguard public safety and extend the service life of a significant urban asset while maintaining day-to-day occupation and commercial activity.
Services Undertaken
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High-pressure jet washing of concrete surfaces
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Preparation of concrete repair areas
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Concrete repairs to structural elements
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Application of fairing coat, primer and anti-carbonation coatings
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Re-pointing and replacement of brickwork
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Helifix masonry repairs
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Expansion joint replacement
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Removal and replacement of defective concrete parapet walls
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Replacement of powder-coated handrails
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Staircase tread repairs
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Concrete ring beam repairs
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Access works and public protection measures
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Out-of-hours working to accommodate commercial operations
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Implementation of noisy works restrictions
The scope of works at Milford Towers was extensive and technically demanding, reflecting both the age of the structures and the exposed nature of their concrete elements. CRL undertook systematic high-pressure jet washing to all concrete surfaces to remove contaminants and reveal the true condition of the substrate. This enabled accurate identification and preparation of areas requiring repair, followed by targeted structural repairs to deteriorated concrete in accordance with best practice for structural repairs UK.
Concrete repairs were complemented by the application of a fairing coat to achieve a consistent finish, together with appropriate primers and anti-carbonation coatings to provide long-term protection against environmental exposure and carbonation-induced corrosion. Brickwork was carefully re-pointed and selectively replaced where defective, ensuring compatibility with the existing fabric. Helifix reinforcement was installed where required to stabilise masonry and address cracking.
Additional works included expansion joint replacement, the removal and replacement of defective concrete parapet walls, and the renewal of powder-coated handrails. Staircase tread repairs were also completed to improve safety and durability. Once access systems were in place, further detailed inspections identified significant additional repairs to concrete ring beams, necessitating programme adjustments and an agreed extension of time. Throughout, CRL managed complex access, public protection and noise restrictions, including out-of-hours working, to maintain safe access for residents, traders and the adjacent supermarket.
"We started the project wary of the reputation that Milford Towers had. However, our site teams developed an excellent relationship with the tennants which hepled the project run smoothly and incident free."
Ben Lawson | Regional Manager (London & the South East) | CRL
Beyond the immediate physical repairs, the Milford Towers project delivered lasting value through a carefully planned and well-executed asset management approach. By addressing concrete deterioration, renewing joints and applying protective anti-carbonation coatings, CRL enhanced the durability and resilience of the structures, reducing future maintenance demands and extending service life.
The works were delivered within a live residential and commercial environment, demonstrating CRL’s ability to plan and execute complex concrete repairs safely while maintaining operational continuity. Close collaboration with Lewisham Homes ensured that stakeholder needs were understood and accommodated, particularly in relation to access, noise management and public protection. The outcome is a more robust and sustainable estate, better equipped to serve its community for decades to come, underpinned by CRL’s proven expertise in concrete repairs and long-term asset management.
