33-35 Piccadilly – Demolition

KpH was appointed to carry out the full demolition of 33–35 Piccadilly, a serviced office building in London’s West End, which will be replaced with a highly sustainable new build development and is positioned in one of the busiest and most tightly constrained parts of the city. The project involved taking the structure down to the ground floor slab, right next to hotels, restaurants, and high-footfall public areas. It’s a great example of how we manage major works with care, adaptability, and respect for the surrounding environment.

The works involved a full soft strip of the ground floor and basement levels, safe removal of residual asbestos, and complete demolition down to the ground floor slab. KpH implemented live noise, dust, and vibration monitoring, and constructed a temporary substation within the Vine Street loading bay. Security infrastructure was installed across the site, including CCTV, and perimeter alarms. Throughout the project, sustainable practices were embedded including the use of electric and HVO-powered plant and a bespoke dust suppression system, which earned CCS recognition.

• The team began with electric plant to reduce emissions, but limited charging infrastructure and breakdown issues meant switching at first floor level to HVO-powered machinery – still low-carbon, but more reliable for the demands of the site.
• Flanked by commercial buildings and hotel, space was tight, and access was restricted. Careful planning kept things moving while staying within agreed boundaries.
• A sudden relocation of the bus stop (due to emergency works by the hotel) meant we had to rethink our waste removal strategy mid-programme – requiring quick adaptation and close coordination with Westminster City Council.

We aimed high on sustainability, but when charging constraints hit, we had to adapt while maintaining our sustainability standards. HVO let us stay on track without compromising our environmental goals.

Smart solutions reduce disruption. Our conveyor misting system didn’t just suppress dust – it removed the need for manual intervention and kept our neighbours happy.

Communication is everything. From shifting traffic plans to noise management, and community drop-in sessions, keeping everyone in the loop is what kept this job running smoothly.

Flexibility is essential in a location like this. You can plan perfectly and still need to pivot. Being responsive is just as important as being prepared.

On behalf of The Crown Estate team, I offer our warmest congratulations on your remarkable success at the CCS Awards. Achieving a Platinum award is a significant accomplishment. Your leadership and innovative approach have been instrumental in the safe demolition of 33-35 Piccadilly, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of your efforts. One example of your excellence in considerate construction is your implementation of advanced electrical plant, a great innovation to trial on demolition sites like these. We have thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with you on this project.

Kwok Ng   |   Development Programme Manager