Edge Protection & Fall Arrest systems: Mote Road project, Maidstone, Kent
This major town-centre residential regeneration project presented complex challenges, including working at height across multiple floors, a constrained urban site and phased construction sequencing. Robust, adaptable temporary Edge Protection, Fall Arrest and Access solutions were essential.
Project Overview & Challenges
The Mote Road development in Maidstone town centre is a major residential regeneration project, delivering 172 new homes across two 12-storey buildings on a constrained brownfield site. Designed by Formation Architects, the scheme replaces a former car park with high-quality residential and commercial spaces. The urban location, combined with phased construction and multi-storey design, required robust, adaptable temporary works, Edge Protection and access solutions to ensure safe and efficient work throughout the build.
Working at height across multiple floors demanded continuous Edge Protection and safe access for operatives. The site’s tight town centre location limited storage and movement of materials and equipment and phased construction sequencing meant multiple floors were progressing simultaneously. Additionally, the high level of interaction between trades increased the need for reliable protection against falling debris.
Scope of Work
HAKI supplied a comprehensive package of temporary Edge Protection, access and safety solutions to meet these challenges. For Edge Protection, we provided over 1000 VC Edge, MK2 90 2600 Barrier Panels, MK2 90 2600 Make-Up Panels, 1900mm Posts, and Sliders. VC Cast and VC Timber Beam Clamp were also used where required. These systems delivered secure, compliant protection at slab edges and the 1900mm Posts allowed extended height coverage and use of Make-Up panels where required. When combined, this EN 13374 compliant system ensured safe working at height and flexibility for changing floor layouts.
Catchfan units were installed to protect operatives and the public from falling debris, particularly important given the site’s proximity to town centre streets and neighbouring properties.
For Fall Arrest, HAKI supplied Alsipercha and Conical Tubes for reliable overhead protection with a built-in energy absorber to reduce impact forces. This product can be used with many different system applications and is fully compliant with EN 795.
Finally, to enable site access Steel Stairways in 6 step and 9 step variations fixed to the concrete slab allowed safe movement between floors whilst eliminating the use of ladders.
Outcomes
HAKI’s solutions delivered clear benefits. Consistent Edge Protection and access systems enhanced site safety and reduced the risk of accidents. Modular, adaptable systems allowed rapid installation, relocation and adjustment to match phased construction schedules. The flexibility of the products ensured they could accommodate changing slab layouts without impacting programme timelines. Debris containment systems minimised risk to adjacent areas, ensuring safety of site workers and the general public.
By providing a coordinated package of temporary works, access and safety solutions HAKI ensured the Mote Road development was delivered safely, efficiently and on schedule, demonstrating the value of modular, adaptable systems in modern urban construction.
