John F Hunt is probably the UK’s leading specialist in high-rise deconstruction, pioneering the NFDC Tower Block deconstruction guidance notes and delivering some of the industry’s most complex tower block demolitions.
We’ve worked with London Borough Councils and clients nationwide, safely dismantling high-rises using precision engineering, advanced deflection testing, and expert structural calculations. Every project, from reinforced concrete giants to intricate large panel system structures, has pushed the boundaries of technical excellence, sustainability, and safety.
James Sinclair Point, Newham
For years, James Sinclair Point dominated the skyline of Newham, a towering giant built as the largest residential block in Western Europe. This 24-storey in-situ reinforced concrete tower housed 254 dwellings, rising above Queens Market, the vibrant food and retail hub, and the underground system below.
The construction design of James Sinclair Point included vertical concrete fins that ran up the building, inadvertently creating an unexpected hazard.
When a small, manageable fire broke out in a single flat, which should have been easily extinguished by the fire brigade, it rapidly spread upwards between the two fins, causing extensive damage throughout multiple floors. John F Hunt demolished the building shortly after, ensuring the site was safe for future regeneration.
Bringing down a structure of this scale in such a busy environment was no easy task. A multi-storey car park was cleared first to create essential working space, followed by the careful dismantling of the tower itself. Adding to the complexity, a significant quantity of asbestos had to be safely removed, making this a project where safety and environmental responsibility were paramount.
The deconstruction of James Sinclair Point was more than just a technical achievement; it was a remarkable transformation, an environmental triumph that paved the way for regeneration.
Clifford Hicks Tower, Waltham Forest
This 18-storey Wates system high-rise required an extensive temporary propping scheme to ensure stability during deconstruction. Before dismantling could begin, we undertook meticulous asbestos panel removal and installed specialised fire breaks between key panels.
A dedicated decontamination facility was established on-site to handle hazardous materials safely, and soil remediation efforts were carried out to remove contaminated ground.
Beyond demolition, this project had a social impact. Our collaboration with the HAT 0.1 programme provided employment opportunities for previously unemployed residents, ensuring that while we deconstructed, we also built opportunities for the community.
Suffolk House, City of London
Taking down a waffle-slab office block in a congested commercial district demanded meticulous planning. Adjacent to a Grade I listed building, this project required a carefully staged deconstruction to prevent damage to its historic neighbour.
Then came an unexpected twist: an ancient Roman monument was discovered beneath the site during excavation! Archaeologists temporarily halted demolition to investigate, ensuring that history was preserved before work resumed.
Abraham Point, Newham
Our first high-rise demolition, Abraham Point, established our expertise in panel system deconstruction. This 23-storey tower was dismantled floor-by-floor, with complete scaffolding and sheeting to prevent dust pollution.
As one of the earliest panel system high-rises, the structure needed extensive strengthening before dismantling to avoid progressive collapse. This project established the foundation for John F Hunt’s technical leadership in high-rise deconstruction, paving the way for some of the industry’s most advanced and sustainable demolitions.
Hume Point, Newham
Standing 23 storeys in Canning Town, Hume Point was structurally similar to Abraham Point but required additional progressive collapse prevention due to design modifications.
Located in a densely populated area, right next to a church, this project required a phased demolition approach with strict noise and dust controls. Scaffolded enclosures, engineered propping, and concrete pulverisers ensured a controlled, efficient takedown while minimising disruption to the surrounding community.
Livingstone College Tower, Waltham Forest
This 17-storey heavyweight structure was deconstructed using high-reach excavators and CAT machines equipped with crushing attachments. The methodical approach ensured minimal disruption to an elderly accommodation complex nearby.
Adding to the project’s historical significance, Roman artefacts were uncovered beneath the site, prompting an archaeological investigation before work could continue. This was a true blend of past and present, ensuring heritage preservation while clearing the way for future development.
Phipps Bridge Estate, Merton
This 11-storey slab block was demolished in a staged process, starting with mini excavators and bobcats to remove upper floors, followed by a 45-tonne crawler crane lifting out larger sections.
As height was progressively reduced, a CAT super long reach machine took over, carefully crushing the structure to a safe working level for smaller equipment.
Sustainability was key, with debris efficiently cleared and recycled at a local crushing plant, demonstrating our commitment to environmentally responsible demolition.
Druid Tower, Lewisham
One of our most technically constrained demolitions, Druid Tower, was a 22-storey panel system block with minimal site access. Located in a pedestrianised area, all access was routed via a hoarded road, making logistics a significant challenge.
The dismantling operation was only possible from one elevation, requiring innovative protection measures to safeguard adjacent gardens and nearby properties. Tenant liaison, asbestos removal, and radio-controlled lifting operations made this one of the most complex high-rise demolitions ever undertaken.
Building the Future
From pioneering our first high-rise takedown to tackling some of the most challenging demolitions in the UK, John F Hunt continues to lead the way in tower block deconstruction.
Each of these iconic demolitions has played a part in reshaping London’s skyline, paving the way for regeneration while ensuring that every structure we take down is handled with care and responsibility.