Rutland Cranes was appointed to deliver a full contract lift for the installation of a new sluice at the JCB Academy in Rocester. The project involved lifting operations within courtyard area with no direct road access, requiring a custom access and protection strategy.
The Challenge
- No vehicle access to courtyard
- Fragile resin surface and landscaped lawn
- Need to complete all works within a single day
- Risk of ground damage from crane outriggers and vehicle traffic
Our Solution
To overcome the access limitations, we deployed a 120-metre trackway system, laid across the lawn and resin-covered courtyard to create a temporary access route for vans and lifting equipment.
We selected the Maeda MC815 spider crane for its compact footprint and lifting capacity, ideal for confined and sensitive environments. To protect the resin surface, we used oversized outrigger pads combined with Ethafoam, reducing ground pressure and eliminating risk of damage under the outriggers.
Our team arrived early to ensure the entire operation — including trackway installation, lift execution, and full site clearance — could be completed within the day.
The Outcome
- Sluice installed safely and precisely
- No damage to courtyard or surrounding surfaces
- All works completed within one day including installation and dismantle of the trackway
