Architect: HOK
Role: Structural engineering
The main project brief was to re-orientate the existing arena building functions through 180 degrees so that the front entrance looked out onto a new arena square, integrating the arena into a new Wembley area master plan. This would also enhance both the aesthetics of the building and its functionality.
Halcrow Yolles provided structural engineering services which included the underpinning and strengthening works to the existing foundations to enable new basements and level access to a new below-ground covered service yard; alterations to the existing and new terracing; addition of new floors within the building for restaurants, VIP lounge, changing rooms, etc; and strengthening of the existing structure with alterations to accommodate revised building functions including the post-tensioning of the roof structure to allow the hanging of loads for events over the stage area. In addition, the design had to satisfy Listed Building Consent and the Building Regulations.
The main principles adopted were that the new work should be as non-intrusive and reversible as possible. The project was completed in a single 15 month closedown on time and budget. To accomplish this, the designers worked closely with the contractor, in some cases amending the design to help with the construction programme.