The Project
RAM were asked to address widespread water ingress occurring through the precast JM Finn Stand, including the Vauxhall Pie Shop and Hospitality Suite, and seating/stair cast joints across various stadium locations.
The issue had caused accelerated corrosion of structural steel, created OH&S risks in the occupied areas beneath the stand, and raised concerns about the future performance of the stadium’s stormwater drainage system.
We carried out a Dynamic Leak Investigation and Specifications for remedial works.
The Challenges
1. Widespread Water Ingress Across Multiple Structures
Numerous active and historic leaks were identified across the JM Finn Stand, Vauxhall Pie Shop, and balcony structures, with evidence of staining, run marks, substrate degradation, and previous repairs failing to prevent moisture penetration.
2. Corrosion and Paint System Failure on Structural Steelwork
Significant deterioration of the original intumescent coating was noted across multiple tiers and roof-level steelwork. Although structural loss had not yet occurred, widespread flaking, corrosion, and paint failure required urgent intervention.
3. Degraded Concrete Cast Joints
Dynamic Leak Investigation (DLI) showed that stadium concrete cast joints were in poor condition with debonding, cracking, and failed sealants, creating multiple ingress pathways affecting spaces below.
4. Potential Overloading of Existing Stormwater Drainage
The proposed new waterproofing system risked increasing stormwater runoff beyond the capacity of the existing drainage infrastructure surrounding the oval, prompting the need for drainage capacity assessment.
5. Complex Access Requirements
Inspection across Tiers 2–4 and the roof required abseilers, ladders, and selective scaffold locations to reach steel elements safely and efficiently.
The Solution
1. Comprehensive Condition Survey
RAM documented existing conditions, waterproofing systems, drainage infrastructure, corrosion locations, structural junctions, and fixtures. This assessment formed the basis for a detailed remediation strategy.
Targeted Repair Recommendations
Repairs included:
- Removal and reinstatement of capping with proper sealing
- Fixing cracks and loose fasteners
- Sealing open penetrations
- Concrete crack repairs and recasting where needed
- Removal and inspection of balustrade plates
Steelwork Remediation Approach
RAM Building Consultancy recommended:
- Full removal of the obsolete intumescent system
- Recoating using a current certified product
- Consulting fire specialists to ensure compliance
Rainfall Calculations
RAM was also tasked with calculating expected runoff volumes post-remediation and comparing them against the capacity of existing drainage to determine upgrade needs.
Following the investigation RAM Building Consultancy was recommended to design, specify, monitor, and sign off works and to pre-approve suitably qualified contractors to ensure compliance and performance.
The Results
1. Clear Remediation Framework Ready for Tender
The assessment and strategy produced a detailed Scope of Works package suitable for tendering to specialist subcontractors.
2. Informed, Risk-Based Decision-Making
The Oval received robust documentation enabling strategic decisions informed by structural condition, waterproofing risks, and drainage system capability.
3. Defined Trial Area for Waterproofing Works
A dedicated February trial area will validate the proposed waterproofing system and inform the final full-stand deployment.
4. Improved Visibility of Structural & Operational Risks
The project highlighted key areas requiring immediate repair and those needing ongoing monitoring, particularly steel corrosion, concrete joint failures, and degraded waterproofing.
5. Streamlined Access & Investigation Methodology
Use of abseilers and strategic ladder placements allowed safe, efficient inspection across complex stadium geometries.
