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Ascot Racecourse, Survey, Cleaning and Painting

Ascot Racecourse, Survey, Cleaning and Painting

May 21, 2025

Case Study

Ascot Racecourse

Steel Superstructure Survey, Cleaning and Painting

The Challenge

Stadium Support Services was appointed by Ascot Racecourse to complete a condition survey of the grandstand’s steel superstructure. Following a detailed assessment, we were instructed to carry out specialist cleaning and protective painting works to help preserve this iconic venue.
With no existing reports or access plans in place, Ascot Racecourse needed a full condition survey of its steel superstructure from the ground up. The challenge was to access a previously unaccessed grandstand develop a safe access strategy and deliver a long-term protection solution, while working around the venue’s live calendar to ensure minimal disruption

Scope of Work
  • Condition survey of coatings and passive fire protection
  • Rope access cleaning of external steelwork
  • Internal steelwork cleaned using MEWPs and specialist equipment
  • High-level pigeon spikes removed, cleaned and replaced
  • External window cleaning integrated into the programme
  • Cantilever brackets and structural steelwork prepped, primed and repainted

The Solution

Following the condition survey, our team used rope access and specialist equipment to restore both internal and external steelwork. Works included the replacement of high-level pigeon spikes and the full repainting of structural cantilever steels. The result was a fully restored superstructure, protected for the future, backed by warranty and supported with a clear long-term maintenance plan for Ascot.
“The team at Stadium Support Services were professional, reliable and safe. Working with them on a complicated project was made easy thanks to their clear communication, we felt informed throughout. They delivered on time and we are really pleased with the results.”
Lee Chalk, Head of Facilities, Ascot Racecourse

Hours

5,000sqm
cleaned

Hours

100+
days

SQM

60m
working at height

SQM

10,000+
hours worked

Coventry Building Society Arena

Coventry Building Society Arena

May 21, 2025

Case Study

Coventry Building Society Arena

Structural Coatings & Superstructure Cleaning

Stadium Support Services delivered two specialist access projects at the CBS Arena in Coventry. The first involved the application of protective coatings to internal and external structural steelwork, while the second focused on cleaning the arena’s external cantilevered superstructure.

The Challenge

The CBS Arena features hard-to-reach areas, both internally and externally. Our team had to couple rope access and MEWP expertise with specialist ICATS-accredited painters to carry out structural coatings. Live events, high footfall areas and tight scheduling added complexity, requiring a responsive approach. High-level cleaning of the external superstructure presented further challenges, needing a safe blend of rope access and a 57m MEWP while maintaining operations at ground level.

Scope of Work
  • Surface preparation ST3 standard via pneumatic and rotary tools
  • Internal coatings undercroft steel across 7 sections
  • External coatings superstructure areas, cleaned and repainted
  • Coating system approved primer, intermediate and topcoat system
  • MEWP deployment 57m boom used for high-level works
  • Water-fed cleaning ground-fed supply to rope access and MEWP teams
  • Coordination works timed around public use and stadium operations
  • Access strategy rope access, PASMA towers and fall arrest systems

 The Solution

Our multi-access teams used a combination of rope access, MEWPs, PASMA towers and temporary fall arrest systems to safely reach all areas of the internal undercroft and external superstructure. Steelwork was prepared to ST3 standard, feathered back and fully recoated using an approved three-part protective system. Cleaning teams used abrasive brushes and ground-fed water lines to deep clean high-level steelwork with minimal disruption. Thanks to strong planning and a flexible on-site presence, both projects were completed safely and within the required timeframe.
“The team at Stadium Support Services did a great job on the CBS Arena. Their knowledge and experience of specialist access meant there was minimal disruption to our operations. The entire process was handled safely and efficiently. We were impressed with their attention to detail and the professionalism of their technicians.”
Alan Pickering, Head of Facilities, CBS Arena

Hours

2,800sqm
steel painted

Hours

10 weeks
 to completion

SQM

60m
working at height

Specialist Cleaning of Stadium Super Structure

Specialist Cleaning of Stadium Super Structure

Nov 11, 2024

Case Study

Specialist Cleaning of Stadium Super 

Stadium Support Services deployed specialist access teams to clean the CBS Arena’s superstructure, using a combination of rope access techniques and a 57m Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP). 

Challenge

The CBS Arena’s superstructure, supporting its iconic cantilever roof, required thorough and precise cleaning at great heights. This complex task called for a blend of expertise in both rope access and MEWP operation, ensuring safe and efficient cleaning across the structure’s expansive steelwork.

Solution

To address the project’s unique challenges, we implemented a multi-faceted approach:

  • Ground-Level Support: Water-fed cleaning machines positioned at ground level provided a continuous supply to operatives working at height.
  • High-Level Precision: Our team hauled hoses to technicians stationed at the structure’s highest steel points. Using rope access, they abseiled down the supporting steels, cleaning each area as they descended.
  • Enhanced Access and Safety: A 57m MEWP was deployed to provide additional high-level access and a rigorous rescue plan, ensuring both coverage and safety at extreme heights.
  • Specialist Equipment: Abrasive brushes were used to ensure effective cleaning, enabling our team to complete the project within a tight timeframe.

The CBS Arena superstructure cleaning was completed successfully within just four weeks minimising any disruption to the stadium and its operations.

“The team at Stadium Support Services did a great job on the CBS Arena. Their use of rope access meant there was minimal disruption to our operations and the entire process was handled safely and efficiently. We were impressed with their attention to detail and the professionalism of their technicians.”

 

Icon - building

Over 2800 sqm
 of steel cleaned

 

Working at 50m
 above ground level

Hours

4 weeks
to complete with a team of 8 people

Hours

57m
High machine work

CBRE, Water Ingress Management & Repair

CBRE, Water Ingress Management & Repair

Jun 7, 2023

Case Study

Rectifying Wastewater Flooding – CBRE

CBRE, a real estate services company, experienced an emergency at one of their office buildings in Leeds.

The wastewater flytt pumps had failed, leading to foul water waste flooding into the tenant’s area. The building was occupied by over 8 businesses and posed a significant health and safety risk. The client contacted us for urgent repairs to prevent further damage and restore the building to its original state.

Challenge

The affected area was located three levels down in the basement, where an escape room business operated. This presented challenges in terms of access, as there was no lift available. All equipment and supplies had to be physically carried down three flights of stairs. Additionally, due to ongoing issues with the pumps, the area had to be cleared three times as wastewater continued to flow back through.

Solution

Upon receiving the emergency call, our team promptly assembled and arrived at the CBRE office building. We immediately assessed the situation and devised a plan to address the wastewater flooding. The first step was to wet vacuum the contaminated area, removing over 200 litres of wastewater. Since the area was situated three levels underground, the team had to carry the storage tanks up two flights of stairs.

To ensure thorough cleaning and restoration, we wet vacuumed the area twice, meticulously lifting any remaining water and debris. We then soft scrubbed the floor, using a fragranced disinfectant to sanitize and deodorize the affected area. This process aimed to return the building to its original state before the incident occurred.

The Result

The entire operation took our team over six hours to complete. Despite the challenges posed by the location and the recurring wastewater issues, the building was successfully restored and was left clean and odour neutralised. The client, CBRE, expressed great satisfaction with the resulting finish, appreciating the prompt response and efficient resolution of the emergency.

Liquid

300L of wastewater removed

Hours

6 hours to complete

Sanding Machine

5 team members

Olympic Park Stadium, Health & Safety Compliance

Olympic Park Stadium, Health & Safety Compliance

Mar 8, 2018

Case Study

Olympic Park Stadium

Health & Safety Compliance – Olympic Park Stadium

Ramping up Health & Safety

With thousands of spectators and visitors entering our venues, health and safety (H&S) as well as accessibility is always at the forefront of Stadium Support Services priorities.

The Challenge:

Stadium Support Services was called to address a breach of health and safety at the Olympic Park Stadium. A temporary structure had been erected with ramps that did not meet strict H&S guidelines and as such was deemed not fit for purpose. Furthermore, with just 24 hours before the first Rugby World cup match to be played at the venue our team had to act fast to find a solution.

The Solution:

Once the problem was identified our H&S officer was able to assess the drop between the temporary structure and the concourse.  From this they were able to calculate the precise angle of the ramp to provide both the optimum use of space and the approved gradient suitable.

The Outcome:

Materials and quantities were ordered and collected on a same day order and a team of six skilled carpenters started construction of the 80 square metre ramps complete with anti-slip flooring and handrails, completing the job in time for the evening kick-off.

As stadium specialists, we fully understand the importance of delivering projects on time within a live venue.