August’s Project of the Month: SAY Access Limited at Appleton Academy

We’re proud to feature SAY Access Ltd, a trusted name in scaffolding since 2004, for their innovative approach and technical precision on the Appleton Academy project.

With complex site constraints and access limitations, this project demanded a custom scaffolding solution built on pre-planning, clear communication, and robust digital support. By leveraging SMART Estimator, SAY Access delivered a smart, safe, and efficient scaffold system that exceeded expectations.

Built on Expertise. Delivered with Confidence:

SAY Access has been providing scaffold access, protection, and support solutions across the commercial, industrial, and heritage sectors for over two decades. Their reputation is built on reliability, compliance, and client-first service, strengthened by their use of SMART Scaffolder tools to streamline planning and strengthen delivery.

At Appleton Academy, their experience was tested by tight access, complex load considerations, and the need for an external scaffold with zero tie-in points to the building.

The Project: Appleton Academy

The scope included:

• An independent external scaffold, fully supported by a buttress scaffold due to restrictions on tying into the building
• Scaffold hoist towers for efficient material movement
• Edge protection handrails to all roof perimeters
• Strategic load-spreading scaffold beams at base level to work from existing roof surfaces

This solution required meticulous planning and pre-construction coordination with the contractor to ensure no physical ties would be needed, while still maintaining full stability, load-bearing integrity, and site safety.

SMART Estimator in Action

SMART Estimator played a critical role in securing and delivering this project. With it, the SAY team were able to:

• Present the scaffold in a 3D model at tender stage to demonstrate the design
• Produce detailed quotations, with itemised breakdowns to aid client transparency
• Generate accurate load lists to optimise material handling and planning
• Share visual plans with on-site teams for clarity, consistency, and smoother installation

“Being able to provide a 3D model of the scaffold before installation helped massively with communication between supervisors and scaffolders—and it built client confidence from the outset.”

Overcoming On-Site Challenges:

With limited access to the internal courtyard, SAY needed to find a creative way to get materials into place. Their solution?

They erected a Layher stair tower to the lowest part of the building (just 2.5m high) and manually carried materials over the roof to reach the working zone. This resourceful workaround kept the project moving and avoided unnecessary disruption to the client.

Results and Reflections:

The Appleton Academy project was a good example of the kind of commercial work SAY Access regularly undertakes. While not unusual in terms of scale or complexity, it reinforced the value of clear planning and reliable tools.

Key takeaways included:

• The importance of pre-planning before works begin
• Ensuring all scaffold drawings are accurate and agreed in advance
• Using SMART Estimator to track section costs and make sure targets are met during installation and dismantle

“Our takeaway from this project was the importance of pre-planning before the works start, ensuring all drawings are accurate and agreed.”

Looking Ahead:

SAY Access continues to expand its reach across the UK, providing scaffold access, protection, and support to clients nationwide. With an eye on scalable technology and digital integration, they’re committed to growing smarter, not just bigger.

“Using SMART Estimator allows us to monitor costs section by section. It gives us the control we need to stay efficient, meet targets, and deliver with confidence.”

Built for Scaffolders Like SAY Access:

SMART Scaffolder equips modern scaffolding professionals with the tools to plan, price, and present projects with total clarity. From complex access solutions to cost-driven commercial builds, we help the best in the business deliver smarter, safer scaffolding – every time.