This ongoing project at Ipswich Museum in Suffolk involved the delivery of a highly bespoke scaffolding solution to support essential refurbishment works. CJB Scaffolding was contracted by Gipping Construction to design and install a freestanding external scaffold system with a large buttress support, alongside a complex internal birdcage scaffold for safe access within the museum. A 32-metre-span temporary roof system was installed externally to protect the structure during restoration, while sensitive heritage conditions, such as working above a life-size mammoth exhibit, demanded custom internal scaffold spanning and full environmental protection. The project, delivered in a live public setting, is ongoing and has entered the dismantling phase of the temporary roofs.

Project Overview

CJB Scaffolding was commissioned to deliver a comprehensive scaffolding solution for restoration works at Ipswich Museum, a prominent historic building undergoing essential renovation.

Externally, a freestanding scaffold with an integrated temporary roof system was erected, providing full access for roofing and façade works. A key challenge was the 32-metre roof span,  known as Roof 1, which had to be assembled manually on rolling tracks and deployed without the use of a crane. This required advanced planning, precision engineering, and expert on-site coordination.

Roof 2, a secondary structure built at a different angle and adjoining Roof 1, was installed using a traditional build method. Ensuring waterproof continuity between the two intersecting roofs was critical, requiring additional detailing and weatherproofing strategies.

To improve site safety and usability, access staircases were positioned on both sides of the scaffold. Smaller side canopies were constructed to shield operatives from rain runoff coming down the roof, helping maintain productivity during poor weather conditions.

Internally, a bespoke birdcage scaffold was designed and installed to provide fall protection and working platforms. Due to the presence of an iconic taxidermied mammoth display, special measures were taken to protect the exhibit from dust and impact, including spanning beams overhead and isolating the work zone with screening.