18 Precast block faced spandrel units were supplied for this project. A precast option was chosen as an economic method of facing both sides and the soffit without the need for specialised stainless steel hanging systems.

Manchester Brick & Precast were involved at an early design stage in this project. The units had to be installed as the steel frame was erected to allow access under the roof canopy.

Standard shot faced masonry blocks were cut to 50 mm thick slips and individually dovetailed to achieve a mechanical key when cast onto the face of the unit.

The two lower pictures on this page show firstly the finished units leaving the factory after having been fully inspected and checked for dimensional tolerance. The second picture shows that the beam was split into two 'C' sections and detailed to wrap around the steel frame.

Units were installed using mobile access cages, thus negating the need for scaffolding. The units were hoisted into place by cranes already on site and then levelled to ensure that the blockwork would course correctly. Access holes and conduits were cast in to cater for light fixtures, which would be added before completion.