A galvanizing company has played a leading role in the refurbishment of a crucial part of the UK's transport infrastructure.

Worksop Galvanizing, part of Wedge Group Galvanizing, has galvanized more than 400 tonnes of structural steel used as part of a major upgrade to the northbound Blackwall Tunnel, which links the boroughs of Tower Hamlets and Greenwich, and provides a key route into Central London from Kent and the South East of England.

Ilkeston-based J W Engineering Ltd has used the steel as part of a project to improve and replace the four ventilation shafts running throughout the 114-year-old tunnel so that they meet stringent current health and safety standards.

Paul Robinson, Commercial Manager for Worksop Galvanizing, commented: "It's been great to be involved in such an important project, and to know that thanks to the hot-dip galvanizing service our team provided, the steel will be protected from corrosion and rusting for anything up to 60 years."

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John Hitchman, Managing Director for J W Engineering Ltd, added: "Galvanizing offers an ongoing protection to the steel, which is absolutely vital when you consider the harsh conditions it will face in the ventilation shafts over the coming years. The team at Worksop Galvanizing provided us with a prompt and highly-professional service, enabling us to complete our work on time."

The £70 million overhaul to the northbound Blackwall Tunnel has also seen the installation of a new CCTV system and additional fire and accident detection systems, along with improved access for the emergency services, and will help to ensure safe use of the tunnel, which carries around 50,000 vehicles a day. The project, which started in February 2010, was completed in November, well in advance of the 2012 London Olympics.

Wedge Group Galvanizing is the largest hot dip galvanizing organisation in the UK with a history dating back over 150 years. With 14 plants strategically placed across the country, they offer a truly national galvanizing service.

For further information please contact Wedge Group Galvanizing on 01902 630311 or visit www.wedge-galv.co.uk.