Project Overview

• Location: Coal Drops Yard, London
• Client: High-profile project within the Kings Cross area
• Project Start: November 2017

Historical Context

The Coal Drops Yard played a vital role in Victorian times, built in the 1850s and 60s for transferring coal from rail wagons to road carts. The brick and cast iron structures originally carried high-level railway tracks for dropping coal into storage hoppers, which were then loaded onto horse-drawn carts. Throughout the 20th century, these buildings were repurposed for storing goods, and by the 1990s, they housed workshops, studios, and nightclubs.

Project Brief

In late 2016, Cotswold Rainwater Services was tasked with designing a high-capacity gutter system that would blend seamlessly with the Victorian architecture while incorporating a modern twist as envisioned by the architects. The bespoke design included aluminium gutter systems, high-capacity box gutters, cast iron hoppers, and downpipes in a Victorian style.

Design and Installation

After several design iterations and samples, we created a bespoke gutter system that met all the project requirements. The installation began in late November 2017.

Current Developments

Coal Drops Yard is undergoing restoration to become a unique new retail quarter, free from traffic and filled with street life. Designed by Heatherwick Studio, the area will feature Victorian brick arches housing boutiques, restaurants, galleries, music venues, and more, with cobbled streets hosting markets and street festivals.

Outcome

We feel proud and honoured to be involved in this project that will regenerate an important historical part of English heritage. Our experience and expertise in bespoke gutter design and installation ensure that we will play a vital role in creating this vision and revitalising this once-vibrant area.