Request
a Survey
Request a Brochure
Request a Call-BackBackground
Couriers use the loading bay to deliver returned parcels, which meant the doors often had to stay open during wet weather. Rain could enter the building, while books waiting to be processed were left more exposed than the client wanted.
Penguin Random House UK needed to extend the existing loading area, creating covered space outside the doors that could be used throughout the year.
The requirement
The new canopy needed to:
- Protect returned goods from the weather
- Help stop rain entering through the loading bay doors
- Create an enclosed area beside the existing loading bay
- Match the colour and appearance of the building
- Be installed safely while the surrounding loading bays remained in use
The Challenge
The canopy had to sit five metres above the loading bay doors, with a lower docking area immediately beside it. Scaffolding and access platforms were needed to complete the installation safely.
As the site remained operational, we also had to coordinate closely with the client. Adjacent loading bays were temporarily closed at key stages, allowing the installation team to work without disrupting the wider site more than necessary.
The solution
Our surveyor, Stephen Wruk, visited the site to discuss the requirements and assess the loading area. We then completed the structural design and steel fabrication drawings for a 5m x 7.5m Connekt Colosseum canopy.
The canopy was installed at high level and enclosed with side cladding from the ground up. Trims were added where the structure met the existing building to help seal the covered area.
The client wanted the canopy to look like part of the original site rather than a later addition. We matched the frame to the building’s RAL colour and sourced specialist cladding to complete the finish.
Results
The finished canopy gives Penguin Random House UK a covered goods returns area that can be used in all weathers. Couriers can deliver parcels without leaving returned books exposed or allowing as much rain into the building through the open loading bay doors.
Despite the height, changes in ground level and the demands of working on a live site, the installation went ahead as planned.
The colour-matched frame and cladding also help the canopy sit naturally alongside the existing building. Since completion, it has received positive comments from people across the business.
“Well-managed construction from start to finish, high-quality workmanship and extremely professional. The quality of the contractors and subcontractors was second to none. I would not hesitate to recommend Canopies UK to any prospective purchaser. We’re very happy with our build.”
Jim Gibson, Regional Facilities Manager, Penguin Random House UK