Projects
Abseil Rail for Irwell, Manchester
The Client
Mountain Earth is a Manchester-based construction and engineering firm with a reputation for delivering innovative, sustainable building solutions across the UK. Their approach combines expertise in design, project management, and complex build processes—ensuring high-quality outcomes for clients across a variety of sectors. Their name reflects their commitment to environmentally responsible construction, which is evident in every project they undertake.
The Brief
The Uptown, Irwell development is Mountain Earth’s latest project—an exclusive residential complex located on the banks of the River Irwell in Manchester City Centre. The scheme comprises three distinctive towers named Element, Enigma, and Graphene, offering 156 luxury apartments alongside premium amenities including a gym, cinema room, and rooftop gardens.
Mountain Earth approached Heightsafe with a requirement for a comprehensive façade access solution. With a large number of windows and external finishes requiring routine cleaning and maintenance, it was essential that a system be installed to ensure safe access for maintenance teams—without compromising the sleek aesthetic of the building’s architecture.
The Solution
Following a detailed review of the building’s design and roof layout, our in-house design team determined that an Abseil Track System (also known as a Monorail or Rope Access Rail) would offer the most effective and discreet solution.
Due to the unique angled roof design and open rooftop terraces for penthouse residents, traditional Davit Arm systems were not suitable. These rooftops were accessible to occupants and did not provide the structural fixings required for such systems. As a result, a less visually intrusive system was needed—one that would preserve both functionality and design intent.
The Abseil Track System provided the ideal balance. Installed around the perimeter of each rooftop, the system allows trained operatives full access to the façade for planned maintenance, cleaning, and reactive works. The track can be integrated into the building structure, offering a clean, concealed finish in line with the development’s modern aesthetic.
The Outcome
Working closely with our long-standing partners at FallProtec—a globally recognised provider of safety and access equipment—Heightsafe delivered a bespoke façade access system tailored to the unique requirements of the Uptown, Irwell project.
From initial design through to final installation, our team collaborated with Mountain Earth’s project leads to ensure seamless integration with the building. The result is a robust and visually discreet access system that ensures long-term safety and maintainability of the façade, without compromising the architectural vision.
Contact Us
Whether you’re in the design phase or retrofitting an existing structure, Heightsafe can provide tailored solutions to meet your building’s maintenance and access requirements. To learn more about Abseil Track Systems, get in touch with our expert team on 020 3819 7199 or submit an enquiry here.
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