Overcoming Difficult Access – A Successful Concrete Pour in Willington
Access is the first thing we think about with a concrete delivery because it can make or break a job. If you can’t get the truck to the pour, the job can’t get done. We were faced with tight site access in Willington, Bedfordshire. This residential site was tucked away with a driveway that wasn’t built for a standard drum mixer. We had no room for maneuvering and we didn’t want to risk damaging the property by trying to force a standard drum mixer to the pour site.
Situations like this demand more than just concrete — they require planning, adaptability, and the right machinery for the job.
The Solution
To solve the site’s access problems, we deployed one of our advanced volumetric concrete trucks, featuring a brand-new Cementech MS2 body mounted on a rear-steering Scania chassis. This bespoke setup is specifically designed by Cementech for projects where access is tight and precision is essential.
The rear steering capability allowed our driver to navigate the restricted entry with ease. Because it’s a rear-steer unit, our driver could tuck the truck into a position that would be impossible for a standard axle, without compromising safety or property. This saved valuable time and reduced any need for excessive manual handling.
Due to the layout of the Willington site, however, direct discharge of the concrete still wasn’t feasible. Which is where our line pump came into play.
Precision with the Line Pump
Since we couldn’t get the chute to the pour, we ran a line pump. This enabled us to transport the concrete exactly where it was needed, regardless of the access limitations. The pump line was carefully routed to reach the pour location, ensuring a smooth and continuous flow of material.
This method not only solved the access issue but also improved the overall quality of the pour. By controlling the placement so precisely, we minimised waste and achieved a consistent finish – something that’s harder to achieve when working under difficult conditions.
The Result
Despite the initial challenges, the job was completed efficiently and the finish was spot on. The combination of the Scania’s agility and the line pump’s reach turned a difficult site into a standard day’s work for the Custom Concrete team. The concrete was fresh, the pour was steady, and the Willington site remained undamaged.
The customer benefited from:
- On-demand mixing, ensuring fresh concrete throughout the pour
- Reduced waste and cost efficiency
- Minimal disruption to the surrounding area
- A high-quality, professional finish
Equipment Matters – Turning Difficult Sites into Success Stories
When access is tight, there is no margin for error. You need a concrete delivery team that understands how to manage a site as well as they understand the concrete mix.
Our setup in Willington proved that even the most difficult residential locations can be handled successfully and efficiently. Custom Concrete don’t just drop the concrete and leave; we provide the delivery method – whether via rear-steer maneuvering or line pumping – that protects your site and keeps the pour consistent from start to finish.
Need a specialist who can handle difficult sites? Contact Custom Concrete to talk us through your next project – 01525 861899