Revitalising Aberdeen: Dem-Master’s sustainable approach at the former Tullos office complex

The firm was proudly appointed to carry out the clearance works at the former Tullos office complex, paving the way for Shell UK to deliver a positive future for the site.

Taking on the task with a profound sense of responsibility and innovation, the Dem-Master team kicked off with meticulous preparatory work involving the soft-stripping of the building throughout March and April. This phase ensured the removal of asbestos, partitions, flooring, ceilings, and mechanical and electrical fittings, leaving only the building’s core structure.

The most eye-catching phase of the project began this week with the deconstruction of the site’s most prominent building, easily recognisable by its gold-tinted windows. Passers-by on Wellington Road will witness the careful dismantling process led by Dem-Master’s Komatsu 490 High-Reach excavator. Starting from the lower levels, the process will then see the involvement of one of the UK’s tallest excavators, the Liebherr Ultra-High-Reach model, taking down the higher levels.

A cornerstone of this project is sustainability, with maximising the reuse and recycling of materials to minimise CO2 emissions being a key objective of Dem-Master and Shell. By employing innovative material processing techniques, the team has achieved a 100% diversion rate of materials from landfill — an impressive feat translating to approximately 980 tonnes of materials to date.

Dem-Master’s strategy includes the re-utilisation of roof slates by roofing contractors, crushing concrete and rubble for reuse in filling site voids or in construction bases, and repurposing timber for various wood products or energy production.

Moreover, even non-hazardous materials like insulation and carpets are being transformed into energy in a process known as ‘Energy from Waste’ (EFW). This method involves controlled incineration at high temperatures to generate electricity, contributing to the power grid and underscoring a commitment to eco-friendly practices.

With this project, Dem-Master aims to set a benchmark in sustainable and responsible demolition practices.