Europe’s largest timber frame takes shape
11 August 2014Work on erecting the largest timber framed structure of its type in Europe has begun in Leeds as part of the latest phase of the City’s new Recycling and Energy Recovery Facility.
The timber frame is one of several sustainable features incorporated into the design of the project, which when completed next summer will divert more than 200,000 tonnes of household waste from landfill and use the remaining unrecyclable material to generate electricity.
The glulam timber frame is being supplied by German timber frame specialist Hess Timber, whose recent work includes the D1 tower in Dubai. The arched frame will be 42m high and 123m long when assembled, and will include a large "green" wall consisting of sustainable plants.
The facility is being constructed by building and civil engineering contractor Clugston and French waste energy specialist CNIM under contract with Veolia, Leeds City Council's waste management partner.
Clugston Construction project manager Tony Wing said: "The fact that this is the largest timber frame ever erected in the UK really highlights the overall size of the project and how unique and important the facility will be for Leeds."
A spokesperson for Veolia said: "The construction of the timber frame also signifies that we have reached another important milestone in the project. The facility when finished will be an impressive addition to the Leeds skyline and will help create permanent jobs and a more sustainable city."
