Refurbishment of the SBB West Wing in Basel

Demolition work on the west wing of the SBB station is continuing to progress, and the first functional structural elements, such as stairwells, have already been constructed. The listed external walls are currently being supported by 16-metre-high micropiles (steel supports); these keep the building upright without a foundation. Anchored 10 metres deep in the ground, they provide the building envelope with sufficient stability to allow further construction work underneath to commence. This complex measure creates space so that the new basement and the connection to the old Gundeli pedestrian underpass can be built. Excavated soil and demolition material can only be transported under difficult conditions. The existing old walls with their round arches continue to provide the structural framework. Following the removal of partition walls, further round arches came to light, which will blend seamlessly into the new design. The confined space and the fact that materials cannot be removed from above but must be handled by excavators require a logistical feat. The 30-strong ERNE team faces new challenges every day and expands its experience through the solutions it develops.