Pre fit out work

This is the first stage of an exciting new development plan for the existing shopfronts on Argyle Street at the St Enoch Centre.

The new space will be four units put together to make one very large retail unit on two levels.

Fencing has been set up along the front of the stores using plastic barricades with fencing above. This gives the site the flexibility needed to clear out debris during downtaking works.

A nightshift operation was carried out to safely remove the escalator from the building. We did this in order to avoid any public interaction.

The escalator was dissected on site using cold-cutting methods. We then lifted it from its seated position using 4 gantry cranes and several electric hoist blocks. The escalator carcass was then rested onto wheeled dollies and pallet lifters.

We then wheeled the escalator out of the building, rigged it up and lifted it onto the back of a flatbed using a large HIAB, as seen in the photos. The final rigged weight of the escalator was 3.2T, in addition to the main components being removed, including the motors, steps, and handrail system.

Unusual Discoveries on Site

During the course of works, the team have made a number of interesting discoveries. One of them was a 1920’s transformer from Scottish Power, previously used to supply power to the building. We found it in one of the unit’s basements.

Interestingly, the intricate ceiling mouldings in a section of the old building, which used to house the St Enoch Picture Theatre, can be seen above more modern ceiling panels. The Theatre closed in 1935.

The team have also discovered the building’s more recent past when taking down walls: in some units, a total of nine previous shop fits were present, built one over the other.

We’re eager to see the finished product and the space at the St Enoch Centre bustling again with Glasgow shoppers.