The Oval

Oval Village transformed a two-hectare former gasworks in Kennington into a new neighbourhood of more than 700 homes, with Gasholder No.1 retained as its Grade II listed centrepiece. The fragile wrought iron frame guided the engineering approach from the start. 

Wentworth was engaged several years before construction to develop the retention strategy. The team carried out structural assessments under wind loading, set out the temporary works sequencing, and designed the jacking system required to transfer the frame’s weight during the tank wall reduction and new capping beam construction. 

Rather than dismantling the structure, Wentworth designed reusable support towers needled through the future capping beam position to the existing tank wall. This in-situ solution protected the listed frame and maintained a stable load path throughout the works. 

The Oval Village exemplifies Keltbray’s commitment to circularity and waste reduction. Utilising our waste transfer facility in Plaistow Wharf, Keltbray diverted an impressive 99.9% of non-hazardous waste from landfill across the group’s operations in 2022. 

Moreover, the project showcased exemplary reuse practices, incorporating 18,000m³ of remediated soils and repurposing the majority of the 100,000 tonnes of basement void materials offsite. 

Oval Village is now complete, with the retained gasholder standing as a defining landmark for the community. 

Key Facts 

• Oval Village has been shortlisted for the Best Sustainable Brownfield/Urban Regeneration/Infrastructure Scheme at the Brownfield Awards, recognising its heritage retention, remediation and circularity achievements. 
• The project retained the Grade II listed Gasholder No.1 in situ, using a bespoke jacking system and reusable support towers to protect the fragile wrought‑iron frame. 
• Keltbray diverted 99.9% of non‑hazardous waste from landfill through Plaistow Wharf, supported by extensive material reuse on site.