GRP Staircase: Knowsley Waste Terminal Access

Posted on 14th January 2025

Client: Network Rail

Contractor: Step on Safety Ltd supplied the staircase; installation was conducted by CSM.

Anchor Systems played a key role in the successful installation of a GRP access staircase at the Knowsley Waste Terminal in Merseyside. The 13m long and 5m high staircase was designed to provide safe access between a railway embankment and a cess walkway.

To overcome the challenges of sloped and uneven terrain, the project utilised sixteen galvanised steel Anchor Screw piles, each equipped with two helix plates. Adjustable interface plates allowed for 7° lateral adjustment, ensuring the staircase remained perfectly level. The piles were installed to a depth of 3.60m using portable handheld equipment, enabling a quick and efficient installation process without requiring railway isolations.

Torque monitoring during installation validated the performance of the screw piles, achieving an ultimate geotechnical capacity of 37.9kN. The system met all requirements, including a 100-year design life, offering long-term stability, load capacity, and durability.

This project demonstrates Anchor Systems’ ability to deliver innovative, reliable, and efficient solutions for complex geotechnical challenges, setting a benchmark for quality and performance in the industry.