Newquay - Retaining wall

Client: Colas Rail (SRSA)

Location: Newquay, Cornwall

Overview

As part of the £56 million Mid Cornwall Metro Programme, PACE Infrastructure Solutions Ltd was awarded the ancillary retaining wall package at Newquay Station. The works were critical in stabilising a defective structure adjacent to Platform 2, enabling core platform restoration works to progress without delay and supporting the wider programme goals of improved rail connectivity in the region.

Our Scope

The scope focused on the installation of a new king post wall system in front of the existing failing structure. Key elements included:

  • Removal and disposal of 40 tons of local spoil to clear the installation footprint
  • Pre-augering and preparation of 7m deep holes for king post installation
  • Installation of 29 structural steel king posts
  • Placement of 87 prestressed, precast concrete panels between king posts
  • Casting of three in-situ concrete retaining end sections, including a reactive pour following the discovery of unexpected obstructions
  • PACE managed all temporary works designs, on-site technical queries, and live design amendments, maintaining programme alignment throughout
Technical Approach

PACE adopted a collaborative and technically robust approach to deliver the works efficiently:

  • Design Integration: Worked closely with the client and design team to ensure constructability and reduce interface risk with the ongoing platform works
  • Real-Time Adaptation: Responded to unforeseen ground conditions with a rapid technical redesign and timely resolution to maintain progress
  • Innovation in Backfill: Proposed the use of no-fines concrete as a backfill material to improve drainage performance, ease of placement, and safety-by-design
Outcome

PACE successfully delivered the retaining wall package on time, supporting uninterrupted delivery of the broader Newquay Platform 2 upgrade. Benefits included:

  • On-programme delivery despite reactive changes
  • Minimised disruption to critical platform works
  • Engineering-led solutions tailored to site constraints and safety
  • Positive client engagement, reinforcing PACE’s value as a proactive and solutions-driven delivery partner
  • This project demonstrated PACE’s ability to integrate structural solutions into complex, high-profile rail programmes through innovation, adaptability, and technical excellence.