The Plaza

The Challenge

The Plaza shopping centre in Wokingham required a comprehensive refurbishment of its multi-functional car park, which also serves a local gym and provides permit parking for residents. The roof deck, inter-decks, and the main entrance and exit ramp had all suffered from failed waterproofing, leading to concrete substrate issues that required immediate attention. The refurbishment had to take place while keeping the car park operational, creating complexities around noise, dust suppression, and maintaining a safe environment for patrons during the works.

The Solution

To begin the refurbishment, the existing waterproofing system was removed using specialised 'ride on' plaining plant designed for multi-storey car parks, which ensured the concrete roof slab remained intact. To manage dust and noise, water drums and bowsers were used to dampen the deck. More than 200 sq. m of defective concrete was removed and responsibly disposed of through concrete recycling. Before applying WestWood’s PMMA system, the damaged concrete areas were repaired with specialised mortars and sacrificial anodes to address corrosion. Surface preparation included the use of captive blasting and Westwood's 821 ultra-low viscosity stabiliser to eliminate outgassing. The fully crack-bridging WeCryl OS 10 279 system was then applied with a wearing layer of quartz sand and final coloured sealer coats to ensure durability.

The main entrance and exit ramp were waterproofed using a buried Westwood system, finished with tarmac. Contractors, Cemplas, completed this part of the project within the two-week window granted by Highways.

The Outcome

The waterproofing system restored the car park’s roof deck and inter-decks, while repairs to the concrete and the addition of anti-carbonation paint coatings provide long-term protection. 

Thanks to a collaborative approach, innovation solutions and meticulous planning, the renovation has eliminated the risk of any water ingress, improving functionality for the local community while maximising aesthetics and durability. 

The project, which has transformed The Plaza Shopping Centre’s car park, won the Car Park Renovation Award at the British Parking Awards 2024.