module specification

In this module, you will examine the contribution that can be made by the Civil and Structural Engineer to the sustainable re-use and adaptation of existing infrastructure (e.g., bridges) and buildings.

The aims of the module are for you to:

• gain an understanding of the current approach to structural re-use and adaptation commonly found in UK practice
• explore the reasons for the retention of an existing structure
• gain skills in investigating and recording an existing structure
• gain experience of assessing the performance of an existing structure and options to meet any shortfalls in this, and to identify both the necessary and optional interventions that may support the adaptation or re-use of the structure
• explore the legislative requirements when re-using and adapting existing infrastructure and buildings
• gain experience of real-life re-use and adaptation projects from practice

Topics covered in this module include:

• Overview of the module - demolition versus re-use (LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4)
• Understanding the history of the use of structural materials (LO1, LO2)
• The concept of ‘significance’ and its role in decision making (LO1, LO2)
• Strategic design options available (LO3)
• Getting to know your building/structure LO1, LO2)
• Developing design options with others – interdisciplinary approaches (LO3, LO4)
• Understanding the behaviour of your structure (LO3, LO4)
• Rectifying defects and accommodating needs of other disciplines (e.g. building services) (LO3, LO4)
• Options for strengthening existing structures (LO3)
• Contractual approaches and documents required (LO3)
• Site operations during the main works (LO3, LO4)

This module will be delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, workshops, and guided online activities. Some of these sessions will be recorded and available for you to access at your convenience, allowing you to explore topics beyond the classroom. This blended learning approach encourages interaction with your peers, fostering meaningful discussions.

The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) will also serve as a platform for ongoing communication between students and tutors, offering discussion boards and other tools to enhance collaboration.

Lectures will focus on the core knowledge and skills needed to undertake projects involving the adaptation and re-use of an existing structure. Workshops, tutorials, and practical activities will provide you with opportunities to enhance your understanding and apply your knowledge to the analysis of complex problems, with guidance from both your peers and tutors.

You will receive regular formative feedback to help you develop a deeper understanding of core concepts, improve your technical report writing, and enhance your critical thinking abilities. Although this feedback will not contribute to your final grade, it will enable you to monitor your progress and make continuous improvements.

Your learning will be further supported by both independent and guided reading and research, enhancing your understanding of structural analysis and computational mechanics principles. By engaging with a variety of academic resources, including textbooks, research papers, and industry reports, you will deepen your knowledge and stay updated on the latest innovations, advancements, and emerging technologies in the field. This will not only allow you to connect theory to practice but also help you develop the skills needed to innovate and tackle complex adaptation and re-use challenges in real-world scenarios.

At the end of this module, you should be able to:

LO1 Select and critically evaluate archive information, technical literature, and other sources of information to enable the investigation of the performance of an existing structure

LO2 Research, investigate, and analyse existing structures, evaluating available data and using engineering judgement to work with information that may be uncertain or incomplete, recognising the limitations of the techniques employed

LO3 Design adaptation or re-use interventions for existing structures, involving the consideration of applicable health and safety, cultural, societal, environmental, construction, and commercial matters, as well as codes of practice and industry standards

LO4 Communicate effectively, with technical and non-technical audiences, on complex engineering matters regarding the adaptation and re-use of existing structures, evaluating the effectiveness of the methods used

The core sources are available via the following link:

CO7015 - The sustainable adaptation and re-use of existing infrastructure and buildings. | London Metropolitan University