
Scaffold Design in Plymouth
A Star Access offers access scaffold design services to domestic, commercial, and industrial clients who require non-standard frameworks for building projects in Plymouth, Ivybridge, and Torbay. Get in touch for scaffold planning to ensure safe and compliant structures.
A Star Access
When Scaffold Design is Required
Not all scaffolding structures can be built using standard configurations. In the UK, many scaffolding systems are erected in accordance with NASC TG20:21 guidance, which provides pre-approved compliance sheets for standard scaffolding structures. However, when a project falls outside these standard arrangements, a bespoke design is required.
At A Star Access, we provide structural scaffold design services for various projects throughout Plymouth, Ivybridge, Torbay, and the surrounding areas. Our experienced scaffolders work closely with contractors, builders, and developers to ensure every framework is designed to meet project requirements while complying with current safety regulations.
Through careful scaffold planning and engineering calculations, we ensure each structure provides safe access for tradespeople working at height. If you require specialist scaffolding for your upcoming project, get in touch with our team today on 07562 572529.


In-House Scaffolding Design Expertise
All services provided by A Star Access occur in-house, so our design and erection teams can respond quickly to project requirements and ensure scaffolding structures meet all necessary legal and health and safety standards. Every design is carefully prepared to ensure the structure can support the required loads while providing safe working platforms.
This approach allows our scaffolders to install scaffolding structures that meet a project’s needs while maintaining full compliance with industry regulations.
Our team works across a wide range of sectors, supporting projects involving:
- Domestic property construction and renovation
- Commercial scaffolding installations
- Industrial maintenance projects
- New build developments
- Infrastructure and bridge access work
By combining bespoke design with reliable supply, installation, inspection, and dismantling services, we ensure every project receives the access solution it requires.

How We Can Help
Some scaffolding systems involve structural features that cannot be installed using standard TG20 configurations. These projects require bespoke scaffolding design and engineering calculations to ensure the structure remains safe and stable.
Examples of scaffolding structures that typically require professional design include:
- Cantilever Scaffolding – Structures that project outward from a building where ground support is not possible.
- Birdcage Scaffolding – Large internal access structures used for ceiling or atrium work.
- Suspended Scaffolding – Systems supported from above rather than from the ground.
- Temporary Roof Structures – Protective roofing systems installed over scaffolding during major construction or renovation work.
- Shoring Scaffolds – Support scaffolds used to stabilise buildings during repair or structural work.
These scaffolding systems involve greater complexity and must be carefully planned in advance.

Bridging, Shoring & Complex Access Scaffolds
Certain construction projects require highly specialised scaffolding systems that go beyond typical access platforms. These structures are designed to solve access challenges while maintaining safe working conditions.
Examples of complex scaffolding builds include:
- Bridging Scaffolds – Structures designed to span obstacles such as roads, walkways, or fragile surfaces where standard ground support is not possible.
- Shoring Systems – Including dead shoring and raking shoring, used to stabilise buildings during structural alterations or repairs.
- Loading Bays – Reinforced platforms designed to safely support heavy building materials on construction sites.
- Over-Bridge and Under-Bridge Scaffolding – Specialist access systems used for infrastructure maintenance and inspection work.
- High-Rise Access Systems – Scaffolding structures installed for multi-storey buildings and complex commercial scaffolding projects.
Each of these structures requires detailed design planning to ensure the scaffolding system provides safe support for workers and materials.
FAQs – Scaffold Design
No two projects are ever the same. Take two frameworks that support similar renovation projects. The first may have more tradespeople requiring access with more materials than the other because more work is being done, while the second is adjacent to a public area.
Scaffold design is the process of planning and engineering scaffolding structures to ensure they are safe and suitable for the work being carried out, whilst also taking into consideration the project location. Structural scaffold design involves calculating load capacities, determining stability, and planning the scaffolding layout.
It’s required when a framework falls outside standard configurations covered by TG20:21 guidance. This often includes cantilever scaffolding, suspended scaffolding, temporary roofs, or complex access systems. These structures require engineering calculations to ensure they remain stable and safe during use. Our work ensures the structure can support workers, equipment, and materials safely.
TG20:21 is guidance produced by the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) that outlines safe configurations for standard scaffolding structures. When scaffolding follows these approved arrangements, additional structural design calculations may not be required. However, projects that fall outside these configurations require bespoke scaffolding design to ensure the structure meets safety regulations.
Yes. Our services are essential for complex construction projects where standard scaffolding systems are not suitable. Bespoke scaffolding structures can be designed for large buildings, infrastructure work, bridges, and industrial facilities. Through careful planning and structural calculations, A Star ensures these systems provide safe and reliable access for contractors working at height.
Contact A Star Access for Scaffold Design Services
If you require a scaffold design service for your project in Plymouth, Ivybridge, Torbay, or the surrounding areas, contact A Star Access today. Our experienced scaffolding team provides expert scaffold planning, scaffolding hire, and bespoke access scaffolding for domestic and commercial projects of all sizes. Call 07562 572529 to discuss your project and arrange a quotation.