TV Gantry, Fratton Park

EngineersHRW were the lead consultant on this ambitious extension to install a new television gantry over the 1925 South Stand at Fratton Park, Portsmouth. The design solution was based on concept designs by Robert AM Stern Architects of New York, and detail designs by HGP Architects.

During previous works carried-out on the stand, the foundations were alleviated of some of their load and the columns were strengthened to increase their axial and bending capacities. This meant that no additional work was required to the original substructure or superstructure to accommodate this significant intervention. It also meant that the works could be carried out within a 13-week period between home games. Designs were developed by adopting a method that avoided any temporary works other than an access scaffold. This is depicted in our animated construction sequence. 

A new 20m-long truss was installed between existing columns directly above an existing truss to support the new gantry deck. The existing truss was re-supported on the new steelwork to allow new structural openings to be formed, providing clearance for new access walkways that span over the stands.

Close collaboration with PMC Construction and G&S Fabrications was essential as up-close access was not possible until the roof had been stripped. The project was completed ahead of schedule.