MGF Trench Construction

Image source: MGF official website
https://mgf.co.uk/

MGF specializes in temporary works and shoring systems for construction projects. Its modular propping systems use interchangeable components to combine high load capacity with equipment that can be transported and assembled in demanding jobsite conditions.

These systems are designed for applications such as confined areas that heavy equipment cannot access, upper-floor construction, and renovation work inside existing buildings. This article reviews two MGF shoring systems and examples of how they have been used on major projects.

Key MGF Shoring Systems

UniShore® Light

Image source: MGF official website
https://mgf.co.uk/products/unishore-light/

Applications for UniShore® Light

UniShore® Light is designed for jobsites where crane access is unavailable and components must be moved by hand. It is particularly suited to interior renovations, upper-floor construction, and constrained urban sites with limited vehicle access.

With a compact 220 × 170 mm profile and a weight of 15.2 kg per meter, the system is easier for crews to carry and position. Its lower component weight can also help reduce the manual handling demands associated with moving shoring equipment around the jobsite.

Pin connections allow crews to assemble and dismantle the components without complex connection methods. This can shorten setup and removal times and reduce the preparation required before installation.

UniShore® GS2

Image source: MGF official website
https://mgf.co.uk/product/unishore-gs2/

Applications for UniShore® GS2

UniShore® GS2 is designed for projects that require adaptable configurations and efficient assembly. It can be used for tall, tower-style support structures and applications that require frequent height adjustments. Its lightweight aluminum components are easier to transport and handle, allowing smaller crews to assemble and dismantle the system.

The props adjust from 1.7 to 3.8 meters in length. Optional components can be combined to meet specific jobsite requirements, whether the system is installed as an individual prop or assembled into a tower configuration.

UniShore® GS2 has a load capacity of up to 140 kN, or approximately 14 metric tons. It is manufactured in accordance with standards including EN 1090 Execution Class 2 and BS 5975. Compliance with these standards provides documented technical information that can support reviews by engineers, contractors, and other project stakeholders.

MGF Shoring Project Examples

Façade Retention at the George Hotel

Image source: MGF official website
https://mgf.co.uk/case-studies/facade-retention-at-the-george-hotel/

MGF supplied a façade retention system for the renovation of the historic George Hotel in the United Kingdom. The project required the exterior walls to remain in place while the building’s interior was completely rebuilt.

Because internal supports would have obstructed the construction area, MGF developed an external cantilever propping system that supported the walls from outside the building.

A tower-style support structure was assembled along the roadside and secured to a concrete foundation with anchor bolts. Cantilever arms extended from the structure to support the façade while leaving the interior construction area unobstructed.

This configuration allowed interior work to proceed with a clear workspace while maintaining support for the historic façade.

Anfield Stadium Expansion

Image source: MGF official website
https://mgf.co.uk/case-studies/lift-the-roof-at-liverpool-football-stadium/

MGF supplied shoring systems for the expansion of the stands at Anfield, Liverpool FC’s home stadium. The large-scale renovation added approximately 7,000 seats, increasing the stadium’s total capacity to more than 61,000.

MGF’s specialist team provided shoring equipment capable of supporting heavy loads and being reconfigured around changing jobsite conditions. This provided temporary support throughout key phases of the expansion work.

The systems were used during technically demanding stages of the project, including removal of the existing roof and installation of the replacement structure. The project illustrates how configurable shoring equipment can support large stadium construction and renovation work.

MGF Support Services

For Contractors and Commercial Projects

Temporary Works Design and Engineering Support

MGF provides in-house engineering services alongside its temporary works equipment. Its engineers support customers from initial planning through project completion, developing standard or custom solutions based on jobsite conditions, construction schedules, space limitations, ground conditions, and budget requirements.

Capabilities include structural calculations, design and installation drawings, 3D and 4D modeling, temporary propping, façade retention, cofferdams, bridge jacking, basement construction, and excavation support. Additional services are available for specialized requirements such as prop-load monitoring, foundation and thrust-wall design, Network Rail Contractor’s Responsible Engineer duties, and Approval in Principle submissions to local authorities.

Equipment Rental, Sales, and Nationwide Supply

MGF offers shoring, structural support, lifting, and safety equipment for both rental and purchase. Its product range includes trench sheets, sheet piles, walers and struts, excavation support systems, lifting equipment, safety products, and modular UniShore® propping systems.

A nationwide network of strategically located depots gives contractors access to equipment and regional support. Customers can use the official depot locator to find the nearest location and contact the appropriate team about product availability, delivery requirements, collection arrangements, and project-specific quotations.

Ongoing Technical Guidance and Contractor Training

Technical support is available throughout the rental period to help contractors use the equipment correctly and effectively. MGF engineers provide early design input, ongoing technical guidance, and on-site assistance when required.

The company’s technical library includes product files, brochures, Revit families, and CAD blocks for contractors, designers, and specifiers. Custom Lunch & Learn sessions are available in person or online and cover topics such as general shoring awareness, early project engagement, value engineering, and proprietary temporary support systems. MGF also publishes user guides, Safe Systems of Work information, and instructional animations covering complex installation and safety procedures.

For Local Builders and DIY Customers

No Dedicated Service for Individual DIY Customers

MGF presents its equipment and engineering services primarily for contractors, construction companies, designers, and other professional project teams. Its official conditions for lifting-equipment sales and rental state that contracts are entered into in the course of business.

The official website does not advertise consumer accounts, single-prop DIY rentals, residential renovation packages, or simplified support for inexperienced homeowners. For the purposes of this comparison, MGF is therefore classified as not offering a dedicated DIY service.

Local builders operating as businesses may contact MGF for a quotation, but individual consumers should work with a supplier that explicitly accepts DIY customers. MGF’s published technical files and guidance should not be used as a substitute for project-specific temporary works design or installation by qualified personnel.

MGF Company Information

Service Area

Image source: MGF official website
https://mgf.co.uk/depot-locator/

MGF serves customers through a nationwide depot network that combines broad delivery coverage with regional support. Customers can use the company’s depot locator to find the nearest location and contact the appropriate team about excavation support, lifting equipment, safety products, and structural support systems.