The refurbishment at Kingston University’s Knights Park Campus provides the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture with 9500sqm of new and improved facilities that better reflect the school’s outstanding reputation and competitive edge. The new building provides more collaborative working space for staff and students.
The design and build project was undertaken in full occupation. The project required a significant decant schedule, and ongoing noise, dust and vibration monitoring.
A phased approach to the works with a detailed decants schedule enabled activities to progress with minimal disruption to the campus. We provided a dedicated contact purely for any issues around noise, dust or vibration in order to address immediately. The phasing was undertaken floor by floor thus enabling containment as far as possible.
The final project delivered a 52% reduction in operational carbon emissions and also achieved BREEAM Excellent. Over 1,000sqm of flat roof has been put to work, providing outdoor teaching spaces, wildlife habitats and green roofs.
100% payment within 30 days terms
Zero RIDDORs
Soft landings for handover
21 work experience placements
7 curriculum support activities
6 graduates
9 jobs created
15 NVQs
Community garden renovation
100% timber responsibly sourced
Over 100sqm of flat roof providing wildlife habitats and green roofs
BREEAM Excellent
52% reduction in carbon emissions
Email: james.wright@hants.gov.uk
Phone: : 07761 330560
Email: alan.smedley@morgansindall.com
Phone: 07967 686066
New 6FE secondary school for 940 pupils and 200 6th form. Roof top sports pitch and playground. BREAAM Outstanding at design stage. High environmental performance.
New 4-storey Britannia Leisure Centre with mix of single, double and triple height spaces. Six-lane 25m main pool and 20m training both with moveable floors and leisure features including 3-storey flume. Café and toilets. Indoor 6 court sports hall. Creche and soft play area. Sauna and steam room. Fitness suite (spin studio and 2 exercise studios). Four squash courts. Two rooftop 5-a-side pitches and 2 rooftop tennis courts.
Shoreditch Academy: As the existing Britannia Leisure Centre remained open throughout construction, customer access into the leisure centre needed to be modified to facilitate the COLASP building which was almost the footprint of the existing carpark and therefore logistically challenging.
Leisure Centre: Externally, we focused on a design solution to encourage the local community to participate in sports and lead a more active lifestyle. As such, the cellular changing accommodation was positioned in the centre of the building, with the pool-halls and other sports spaces wrapped around the perimeter. This produced an elevated, animated building that entices the public into the facility.
Thames Water sewer: Construction of the leisure centre was complicated by the presence of an existing large diameter Thames Water storm relief sewer that runs diagonally across the site at a depth of 14m. This sewer has an exclusion zone of 3m either side and above it where no new construction is allowed. The building is on a tight footprint and the leisure activity zones are ‘stacked’ vertically which created some interesting challenges in structural stability and vibration control. Spanning 9m over the sewer and due to the diagonal alignment, equates to some 14m on grid, this alone brings significant construction challenges. The site also directly sits on the position of a vertical access shaft which gave access to the sewer for maintenance and emergency escape purposes.
Shoreditch Academy: We designed an innovative ramped solution into the top floor of the Leisure Centre building to allow it to remain open while the new school was built. We fixed transport routes around the whole site to manage traffic and deliveries. There was a cycle superhighway adjacent to our site, which required collaboration with the highways team. The proposed route for Crossrail 2 was also located directly underneath the new Academy, so the building design needed to be considered due to strict loading restrictions imposed by Crossrail.
We designed a unique groundworks solution to incorporate the temporary sheet piling into the permanent structure at basement level, creating an extremely cost-effective solution for the project. The precast cladding was then selected as it required no scaffolding and cut down on noise and vibration on vehicle deliveries to the site.
The façade was also load-bearing and allowed the design of the concrete framed structure to be simplified and fast erection on site while minimising construction site area. We even designed the City of London logo onto the facades via a patterned concrete finish which was then installed along with all other panels. The future Crossrail tunnels, size of the building and constrained nature of the site required an innovative approach. The building footprint was kept as small as possible to maximise the playground areas, taking advantage of the existing topography to create an amphitheatre playground.
Leisure Centre: Due to the complexity of the stacked leisure centre we had to keep the sports hall free of columns, and to bridge over the pool areas a complicated steel truss arrangement was needed. Spanning over 10m in height and 50m in length, the spine of the building spans 3 floors. Due to these structural intricacies, this was built on-site then lifted into place with two 500 tonne cranes in a tandem crane lift. This was an innovative and important project milestone for the build, which was completed safely and successfully.
We developed a team of specialist engineers whose knowledge and input enabled us to create a safe, on time and to budget build. As an example, the main 25m swimming-pool hall is double-height, and the leisure pool hall is triple height. Each of these pool spaces contains warm, moist air which is under positive pressure. Cooler spaces such as the sports hall and fitness gym are positioned over the pool-halls therefore the environmental separation between each of these spaces was a key construction challenge. To help deliver this environmental control we involved a specialist mechanical engineer with a focus on finite engineering. This ensured we maintained the continuity and integrity of the vapour control layer both vertically and horizontally within the building, preventing pool-hall air migrating through the building envelope, preventing it condensing on any cooler surfaces or spaces. Maintaining the continuity of the vapour control layer and insulation performance was particularly important for our roof-top pitches. We knew the importance of having an air-tight vapour control layer that was chlorine resistant for the longevity and overall safety of the build.
Thames Water sewer: We worked with Buro Happold and Thames Water to overcome the main risks of working over the sewer. This involved developing a working / construction methodology of preventing the sewer from trying to pop out of the ground due to buoyancy when it was empty or bursting under 14m head of water pressure when it became full. One of the main the concerns was that by excavating over the sewer to form the basement areas and pool shells, we would be effectively reducing the weight of the soil over the pipe, increasing the risks associated with buoyancy or bursting. Early involvement commissioned a detailed line and level survey to ascertain the precise depth and alignment of the sewer pipe, this led to greater confidence and understanding of design parameters and restrictions.
Shoreditch Academy: The school was originally due to open in September 2021; however, we were able to hand over the building for the school to occupy earlier than planned in June 2021 to use for their final school term and allow the year 11 pupils to carry out their final exams in their new school.
Leisure Centre: With our attention to detail and meticulous checking systems we are set to achieve BREEAM Excellent. The building’s energy design philosophy was to connect into the future district heating system which was being provided as part of the redevelopment of the Colville Estate.
To enable this to occur a temporary energy centre serving both the leisure centre and school, was installed and removed once the permanent connection to the energy centre was installed. Our district heating system and the overall design compliments the energy targets established in the New London Plan, so all equipment installed is energy efficient.
As an example, we use low energy fans to minimise energy consumption and have PV panels on the roof that supports our on-site sustainability strategy. Supporting our sustainability goals, we took advantage of the TfL CS1 main cycle superhighway which was adjacent to the project and were the first contractor to adopt a carbon neutral innovation of using Cargo Bikes for plant hire and small deliveries. Almost 500 residents can see the site, so we looked for innovative solutions to flood lighting and became the first constriction company to use hydrogen flood lights which helps reduce excessive noise.
Thames Water sewer: Once we knew the exact positioning of the sewer we developed a detailed construction methodology, working with Thames Water to agree how the works would be constructed. This led to greater cost and programme certainty and the removal of the substantial provisional sums associated with the identified risks.
Winner of Building’s Award for Delivering Social Value
Hackney’s Apprentice Employer of the Year
Hosted a Wheels for Wellbeing best practice site visit as part of ongoing commitment with TfL and Streetscene to ensure the site boundary was easily accessible for all pedestrian users. Wheels for Wellbeing focus is wheelchair cycling and ensuring cycle lanes are adequate to allow inclusion for all.
Project team hosted local forums and drop-in sessions at 5 local schools in advance of works starting so they could understand the logistics and opportunities for schools engagement as well as local residents’ forum.
Partnership created with Shoreditch Trust addressing inequality and supporting people who are facing life and health problems. This included sponsorship of an Elders Feast.
Hosted CIOB virtual site tours during Covid 19 pandemic to inspire more people into construction
Sponsored Hackney Council’s virtual quiz night raising money for Hackney Foodbank
Hosted two visits from 9 SEND students to aid their transition from their old school site to the new constructed school
Hosted two site visits for K10 (local shared apprenticeship provider) for 27 students to give them much needed experience resulting in 6 work experience placements
Attended Women in Construction career seminar, speed interviews and mentoring programme
Attended a number of Hackney Works initiatives supporting local residents finding work
Created two “Paws Stations” for local daily dog walkers against the site hoarding
161 beneficiaries
64 new jobs created (39 previously unemployed and 19 live in Borough of Hackney)
34 Apprentices – 8 lived in Hackney, 18 enrolled in new apprenticeships on this project and 9 now directly employed by the company they worked for
1,096 trainee weeks
1001+ student engagement events
Schools engagement: xx students
£48,500 donations to charity
822 volunteer hours
47 No of SMEs
£2.11 average LM3
£78m social value created
97% waste diverted from landfill
100% timber responsibly sourced
BREEAM Outstanding
Natural ventilation and user controls maximisedTrialled cargo bike deliveries on the project making full use of TfL’s Cycle Super Highway adjacent to the project to capture industry best practice of zero emissions method of transport and resulting in 17.1kg CO2/km saving per week. We are one of the only construction sites using this type of delivery and installed a cargo bikes loading area – the first in the country!
First use of hydrogen flood lights in construction
110 trees planted doubling the previous number
Wood chippings from removed trees retained by Hackney Council’s ground maintenance team and felled trees donated to Shoreditch Adventure Playground as climbing frames and seating
Reusable water bottles which can be clipped to a belt issued to all site operatives
CCS Score 45/45
Collaborated with TfL’s Cycle Super Highway and Hackney Council Street scene by taking part in an environmental walk to agree construction logistics, review traffic routes and ensure cyclists enjoyed passing the project throughout construction. All traffic Marshalls completed TfL’s Elite Marshal training.
Nominated for TfL Transport Awards through collaboration with TfL and Hackney Highways team
Soft landings for handover
Dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
100% payment within 30 days terms
Email: james.wright@hants.gov.uk
Phone: 07761 330560
Email: alan.smedley@morgansindall.com
Phone: 07967 686066
Major renovation of a live secondary school, enhancing teaching provision for its transition to a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) specialist Academy.
Undertaking major renovation works within a live secondary school, scheduled over three phases of works.
Phase 1: The transformation of Block L (the existing drama building) for use as the site team’s welfare and site offices; internal reconfiguration of the second floor of the Childerly Building providing an additional classroom; provision of 3 working labs and 2 standard classrooms.
Phase 2: Demolition and subsequent construction of a two-storey, steel framed science block providing six new teaching labs. The building includes a green roof, PV panels and attenuation tank.
Phase 3: The extensive refurbishment of the Grade II listed Kingwood Building including asbestos removal, MEPH systems, window replacement, decoration and carpentry works.
It was recommended to the client that Block L (which was due to be demolished) be utilised as the site office and canteen space. This not only saved the project money in site setup costs and omission of the Block L demolition works from the scope of works, but furthermore, the making good of the building provided the school with a new space for music classes.
With three separate handovers, it was imperative that a good relationship was maintained with the school staff. Consideration and understanding were incorporated into the safe planning of works and scheduling of deliveries to allow the live school to continue to operate. The use of temporary modular classrooms accommodated students away from the works thereby ensuring minimal disruption to the overall learning environment.
Three successful handovers to a delighted client, helping to realise the school’s transition into a specialist STEM Academy. The first phase was completed on time, the second phase was handed over two weeks earlier than expected, and the third phase of works was also completed on time.
100% payment within 30 days terms
91% waste diverted from landfill
100% timber responsibly sourced
BREEAM Very Good
Zero RIDDORs
CCS Score 43/45 nominated for 2020 Award
14 apprenticeships, 6 of which were new jobs created
7 work experience placements
272 Trainee weeks
Schools engagement: 361 pupils
Soft landings for handover
Dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
Email: james.wright@hants.gov.uk
Phone: 07761 330560
Email: alan.smedley@morgansindall.com
Phone: 07967 686066
The Harrison Building is located in the centre of the Streatham Campus, surrounded by several other University buildings, key facilities, roads and footpaths. The works to the operational building included the replacement of the roof, northlights and complex building services, whereby a scaffold birdcage and temporary roof were erected over the building to facilitate the removal of asbestos also involving a significant amount of temporary works.
Several interior refurbishment sub-projects were delivered concurrently including the new state-of-the-art ‘Curriculum 2020’ suite, comprising lab space, workshops, offices and open-plan workspaces.
A carefully planned logistics strategy was developed for each stage of the project, the planning of which began at the earliest possible stage.
The Harrison Building’s technical challenges and site constraints, combined with the requirement for the building to remain operational throughout, placed additional importance on the safe segregation of our works, stringent management of hazards and careful mitigation throughout in order to minimise the impact of works on the student experience and day-to-day campus operations.
Neighbouring campus buildings were occupied throughout the works and continuity of “business as usual” was vital for all campus users.
Key to our successful relationship with the University was our established levels of communication, commitment, planning and understanding, coupled with the professional and considerate conduct of our site team at all times. Mitigation techniques included:
In understanding and upholding the University’s commitment, core values, approach to sustainability and the Environmental Climate Emergency, we are proud to have now delivered 7 carbon reduction projects for the University within the past 5 years, including this project, through:
All of Morgan Sindall’s sites remained open throughout the initial Covid “lockdown” period including the Harrison Building. A visiting HSE inspector described our infection control measures as “above compliance”.
100% payment within 30 days terms
Zero RIDDORs
CCS Score 43/45
96% waste diverted from landfill
100% timber responsibly sourced
159 tonnes carbon saving
12 SMEs
We have remained committed to provide a local workforce with the capability and capacity to deliver our clients’ requirements, whilst generating a positive impact on the communities and environments in which we work. At Harrison Building, an impressive 60% of our project spend was within the projects ‘catchment area’ (within 15 miles of site) and 75% within 30 miles.
34 beneficiaries
6 jobs created
320 trainee weeks
£1,730 donations
71 volunteer hours
82% social value created
We employed two construction management apprentices and supported our supply chain to recruit, train and retain local apprentice including MEP, where a further 2 apprentices were employed.
In recognising an opportunity to promote the varied and exciting careers available to the University’s College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Science (CEMPS) students, we helped in the organising of site visits and a ‘careers fair’, where students met members of our project team with engineering backgrounds and were also able to apply for work experience opportunities.
Throughout the project we have worked closely with local schools, Job Centre and Build Force, giving opportunities to those interested in careers within construction to gain practical, work-based experience in a range of areas, providing a total 14 week-long work experience placements.
Soft landings for handover
Dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
On completion of the first phase, we dedicated a 3-week ‘post-contract’ period within our programme, giving our project management and MEP contractor the opportunity to provide any necessary training for building users, resolve concerns, and undertake ‘fine-tuning’ as required.
Email: kingsley.clarke@devon.gov.uk
Phone: 07805760622
Email: alan.smedley@morgansindall.com
Phone: 07967 686066
Project Information
BAM has developed a landmark property for City University, which incorporates a striking combination of new and existing structures. The project was procured through SCF Construct and consists of a tower block with an innovative twin screen printed façade, new attached blocks and existing structures incorporated into a single building. Scope includes a double basement, ground and six upper floors, including the extension and refurbishment of the existing Goswell and Myddleton buildings.
An atrium connects the collection of buildings, containing a cafe and circulation space. A new external courtyard has been created between the building and adjacent residential properties. BAM extended the existing basement to provide lecture/ conference space.
Site Constraints / Logistics This was a logistically challenging project, situated on a restricted site and bounded by residential properties, including Grade II listed buildings. Sebastian Street also lies within the Northampton Square Conservation area.
Cladding design – The concept design comprised a twin walled flue design to achieve the desired architectural look. Technically this presented a challenge as it did not align with the M&E strategy, this issue required quick resolution to maintain programme.
Archaeology – archaeological dig required to ensure the preservation of the rich local history.
Site Constraints / Logistics – Bounded by residential neighbours and building within a conservation area required sensitively managing in order to maintain good relations and minimise the impacts of construction works. We achieved exactly this through regular resident forums and good communication. CCS score of 42/50.
With regards to site and design complexities, the use of digital technologies / BIM aided design coordination, spatial fit of retained structures and condition / cloud surveys.
Cladding design – To overcome the technical issues and align with the buildings M&E strategy we collaborated with specialist supply chain partners Skonto and Schuco to design an alternative cladding solution based on a twin walled unitised system.
Archaeology– Prior to construction starting, City collaborated with Museum of London Archaeology. During the excavation, artefacts dating back to the pre-Bronze Age era were found, in addition to remnants of a Civil War fort, trenches, glazed pottery and tokens from the 1640s.
The final results are outstanding, Clients expectations exceeded is testament to the teams unified approach to managing the many complex and unforeseen challenges, in particular delivering this facility in London during the height of the pandemic.
The project achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating attributable to the low carbon design and sustainable services installations all contributing to a reduction in City’s carbon emissions.
Sustainable features:
Photovoltaic system on roof areas
Centralised lighting control system throughout the law school
Primary ground source heat pump system
Energy Efficient lighting
Rainwater harvesting
98% Waste diverted from landfill –
100% timber sustainably sourced
56 Environmental Toolbox Talks
Contaminated ground was remediated
493 apprenticeship weeks
Work experience placements and volunteering
5 local apprentices from Islington
8 apprentices not local
57 hours volunteered by project team
2 work experience placements
Charities supported: CLIC Sargent and Alzheimer’s Society both charity partners and CRASH
Employment of local site management trainee: We had 6 local apprentices on site, 1 non- local management trainee.
Sponsorship of college/university students: 1 x quantity surveyor
100% payment within 30 days terms
As part of our commitment to aftercare, key BAM personnel remained on site following completion to facilitate smooth occupation for both the university staff and students. We worked with the Clients FM team to ensure they were fully familiar with the operation and maintenance requirements, providing additional training sessions where required.
Zero RIDDORs
CCS Score 42/50
Email: alex.nelhams@hants.gov.uk
Phone: 07717 003869
Email: dbirch@bam.com
Phone: 07920 134843
Project Information
Procurement Type: Two stage
Form of Contract: NEC 4 Option A Design & Build
Contract Period: 83 weeks
Size: 8,650m2
BAM has built the new state of the art engineering block for the University of the West of England (UWE) on their existing, busy campus in Bristol, which remained live during the project. The new building provides teaching and research facilities for more than 1,600 undergraduate and post graduate students along with 100 academic and technical staff.
Facilities include engine test cells, wind tunnels and dedicated rooms for specific engineering disciplines such as composite manufacturing, machining and metrology.
The three storey building was constructed out of structural steel frame with in-situ concrete ground floor, precast concrete upper floors and stairs and a combination of Corten cladding and curtain wall as the exterior finish.
A full height atrium forms the entrance which was finished with glulam timber cladding.
The project had a challenging programme, with completion in 83 weeks. To help ease the programme we appointed one of our CAT 1 structural steel frame contractors early in the process. Included in their package was the supply and installation of the precast concrete and glulam timber cladding works and this eliminate the issues that arise with different contractors carrying out the works.
The project was designed in a 3D environment under BIM level 2 requirements thereby minimising design issues before manufacture. During the enabling works period a new site access was formed onto the campus ensuring the site was completely isolated from the rest of the campus mitigating any issues with site logistics and deliveries ensuring the site was secure and the university could continue to operate as normal.
The team worked together to successfully resolve a number of key challenges, notable examples include:
Bespoke Design – The client required a bespoke building that could cater for a diverse range of engineering subjects. Specific areas required very different physical properties, with each teaching space having a unique purpose that needed a bespoke design solution.
Noise / Vibration – Many of the ground floor engineering workshops generate high levels of noise and vibration.
Optimise functional learning space to create more opportunities for learning and a safe inclusive environment for students to flourish.
Bespoke Design – The building was designed from the outset to allow for the physical nature of different engineering subjects, with ‘heavier’, material-based engineering on the ground floor, moving up through ‘lighter’ and cleaner engineering forms (for example, hydraulics, acoustic and electrical) on each of the three floors.
More traditional ‘heavy’ engineering subjects such as structural engineering, construction material, mechanical workshops and engine test cells require large spaces that are highly serviced and are typically loud and dirty due to the machinery and processes required. These testing spaces needed to be designed in such a way as to absorb vibrational impact and minimise disturbance to other teaching spaces nearby, achieved through a reinforced concrete ‘floating slab’ mounted on special acoustic bearing pads at regular spacings.
A 1.2m thick reinforced concrete strong wall and strong floor, capable of withstanding 150t, has been designed to enable bespoke testing of construction material and aircraft components. Bespoke anchors embedded within the strong wall and strong floor and a 2.5t lifting crane have also been designed to meet the university testing requirements.
Acoustics – As many of these ground floor engineering workrooms generate high levels of noise, a key challenge for our acoustic engineers was to determine the level of sound insulation necessary in order to achieve acceptable internal noise levels in the adjoining rooms during the operation of equipment. Where necessary, a pragmatic approach between practical design and acoustics standards was reached.
On the floors above this, high-tech electronics labs, modelling and simulation suites and mechatronics labs with robotic arms had different requirements again, needing solutions to the equipment’s high heat gains and sensitivity to noise and vibration. A thermo-fluids lab required floating power sockets mounted from the ceiling to counteract any potential issues from regular water simulations, while a programming laboratory features a large robotic arm, which is very sensitive to the room’s doors opening and shutting.
Optimise functional learning space Combining circulation with social learning space has resulted in a very efficient building with almost every corridor having a dual function. This openness was a key part of the University’s brief, ensuring that the building avoided intimidating spaces to encourage a more diverse range of engineering students.
This stunning low energy building provides a state-of-the art and inclusive engineering faculty, that will assist UWE in its aim of encouraging greater diversity within engineering as a whole. In October 2021, UWE Engineering Building was awarded Social Infrastructure Project of the Year and overall Project of the Year at the BCIA awards.
The design focused on making the life cycle of the building as efficient as possible, helping to add long-term value.
Low carbon design principles, including natural ventilation and passive cooling, were adopted from the start of the design process to minimize the building’s carbon emissions in line with the university’s ambitious carbon reduction targets.
Energy and carbon reduction targets on this project were exceeded, with regulated energy use. The project achieved a very low A rated EPC value. The building achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating, it’s well insulated and energy efficient. Use of LED lights, PV panels on roof and water harvesting for grey water. The new facility is connected to UWE District Heating system. Natural ventilation and light used as much as possible.
96 training weeks
42 career events
34 educational site visits
£146,088 Social and Local economic value delivered
Worked with UWE on future sustainability projects in Africa
Supported PHD students research into construction related information
Provided work experience to a number of construction students prior to pandemic
Introduced a mature apprentice through BAM shared apprenticeship scheme
At the peak of the pandemic, the project team pulled out all the stops to still handover the building clean and fully usable in time for the University to occupy ahead of the new academic year. Key to this was providing the University with early access to undertake fit out works.
BAM pulled out all the stops to still handover the building clean and fully usable in time for the University to occupy ahead of the new academic year. BAM allowed the University site access prior to Handover for its own fit out as this programme was also disrupted due to COVID. This was very much appreciated. Several snags remained post-handover and I have been working with BAM to close these out during the defects period.
100% payment within 30 days terms
To avoid construction access through the heart of the campus BAM proposed a temporary road to keep the works completely segregated, this measure along with a separate area for contractors parking and material storage made it it safer to build and minimised construction impacts. CCS Score 40/45
Email: kingsley.clarke@devon.gov.uk
Phone: 07805760622
Email: dbirch@bam.com
Phone: 07920 134843
This new state-of-the-art Tech Park provides new engineering and digital creative technology facilities to support 500 new science, technology, engineering, and maths undergraduate and postgraduate student places per year. The facilities provide a TV production studio, a green room and a “create, design, implement and operate” (CDIO) engineering space. Also included are a machine shop, welding area and fabricating laboratory (fab lab). In addition, an Institute for Sustainable Enterprise, and a Centre for Digital Technology, located in a new signature building, and will enable the creation of a Research Centre for Sustainable Operations and Departments of Data Science and Advanced Engineering & Design.
Passivhaus design principals were applied resulting in running costs efficiencies. Sustainability was key and several added value benefits were achieved, for example by protecting and increasing biodiversity levels in the stream which runs separates the buildings from the carpark during the construction works and inclusion of a swale.
BREEAM Excellent was achieved with exemplar levels of Responsible Construction Practices six weeks post completion.
The Grand Opening was attended by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
— As the site was in a flood zone 3, this required the design teams to collaborate with us and our supply chain partners to finalise the design and construction methodologies as early as possible. We collaborated with the novated design team to fully understand the flood risks and several modelling assessments were undertaken to ensure that design was right first time.
The Challenge
Together, the teams engaged with the Environmental Agency early and designed both compliant temporary and permanent flood mitigation strategies, which included diverting the stream to enable the installation of a temporary bailey bridge over a storm ditch that traversed the site, giving way for plant and vehicle access during the enabling works. Whilst the enabling works were progressing, the teams concluded the permanent bridge design which featured concrete balustrade and culvert and tarmac. The bridge was designed to withstand the weight of HGVs and emergency vehicles.
—
The completed installation was in keeping with the design features important to the client, practical and in full agreement of the Environmental Agency.
Tower crane rescue courses were offered to subcontractors.
The site team remained on site 6 weeks post completion. Our Galliford Try Facilities Management team will be attendance for 3 years, 24 hours, 7 days a week making it easy for defects to be reported and resolved quickly.
In keeping with our payment method and agreement, all payment periods did not exceed 30 days
Low carbon design was included like passive design analysis, free cooling and future provisions for CHP. During the enabling phase, we acknowledged that the existing site had diverse habitat and preserved the wildlife by maintaining the wildflowers and grass for as long as possible. A dedicated foot traffic path was created through the field. Grass cuts were reused to protect the soil in the path and doubled up as safe passage during winter and wet months.
700 trainee weeks, 10no supported employment, 12no new recruits, 4no work placements including 16no graduates and 8 activities to support students, such as careers fairs and talks and site visits. In addition, we renovated the local cricket pavilion and our trainee site manager supervised the club showers and toilet replacement works.
“We are totally indebted to all involved who have saved our club after the fire and would welcome them all to join us on match days in the new facility that the council have provided for us and the local community.” Ian Guppy, from Aldwick Cricket Club, said the new building was a site to be proud of.
Paul Broggi, Property, Estates and Facilities Manager at Arun District Council said “I have been involved since inception and it has been an honour to work with all involved. It has been a bit of a labour of love and has taken a lot of time to resolve but I am extremely proud of the result.”
Further local community engagement projects included; Acoustic barriers and fencing utilised during the construction phase was donated to the Coast Guard, Created a new local allotment entrance and donated site fencing, Donated defibrillator to local scout group, Bognor beach clean, Planting and clearing of weeks of Hotham Park.
Email: James.wright@hants.gov.uk
Phone: 07761 330560
Email: angela.purse@gallifordtry.co.uk
Phone: 07593 561 855
University of Westminster
Willmott Dixon were appointed to deliver a £1.6m refurbishment in time for the 2021/2022 academic year. In order to meet this deadline, there was a very restricted programme, which was to be delivered in an occupied building.
The University of Westminster wanted to improve the overall student experience by creating flexible and engaging multi-purpose spaces.
Specialist teams from Willmott Dixon refurbished the ground and lower ground floors at the university’s building.
On the ground floor, three existing rooms have been repurposed to create a new, single, and accessible open plan area for work-based learning, with non-structural walls removed to enlarge the space.
A new heating and cooling system was implemented to improve the building’s thermal efficiency. Other improvements consisted of new lighting, flooring and stackable furniture, and a new AV system, including the latest display technology for wireless projection.
The 10-week project has delivered 8,500 sq ft of flexible and engaging space across 8 weeks within the building’s CSE Innovation Centre. The new space has been designed to switch between a 40 seater programming lab and a collaborative working area.
The space is also used to showcase student work, research posters sessions, and presentations, and act as additional meeting space.
Delivered on time enabling use at the beginning of the 2021/2022 academic year.
Email: guy.dawes@willmottdixon.co.uk
Phone: 07989179444
New build 299-bed student accommodation delivered as part of continued investment into the university’s main campus which is central to AUB’s future aspirations to grow its reputation as a leading arts university. This project was unusual for a student accommodation project given the major focus on sustainability and design throughout to reflect the university’s core ethos. The accommodation is formed of 3 buildings spread across 11 blocks set around a landscaped courtyard.
Intumescent paint
To successfully apply the full system of intumescent paint, we required three days of good continuous weather at a good regular temperature. During construction, wet weather conditions meant we could not apply the paint as required, which resulted in programme delay.
Meeting client’s budget and design intent
One of the client’s key drivers was the visual impact of the new building. However, the original design intent did not meet the client’s budget.
Covid-19 pandemic
When the lockdown occurred in mid-March 2020, the project was ramping up at just under 200 operatives working on the scheme. It was peaking at our planned full production flow, both internally, on the fit-out, and on the external envelope in parallel.
Within a week, it became very apparent, as the Government made essential announcements, that the site set-up and logistics needed to change drastically to meet social distance and Covid-19 SOPs requirements. This was alongside daily concerns of whether there would be enough materials and PPE continuity, all having to be constantly micro-managed from one day to the next by the site team, supply chain and MS procurement structure.
Initially, there was no choice but to force a scaling down of the workforce to about a third, then look to progressively increase back to similar numbers with more managed productivity, as well as:
Intumescent paint
We re-mapped the programme so we would get back on track with the start of enclosing the building and having trigger points for the internal trades which had slipped due to the issues with the paint. During this time, we also had the impact of Covid-19, which meant we had to comply with socially distanced requirements where only one trade was allowed per floor as opposed to having several trades working together on the same floor to catch-up with the programme.
Meeting client’s budget and design intent
We undertook a detailed Value Engineering (VE) process to collaboratively develop a solution which met both client’s budget and design aspirations. As part of the exercise, we looked at changing blockwork partitions to lightweight construction. In addition, we produced a ‘pick list’ of costed VE options for the Client to consider and held workshops with the Client’s team to present and review all options available; ranging from specification changes, to a full redesign of the scheme. The client took on-board the VE options which aligned with the aspects of the design which were important to them.
Covid-19 pandemic
To overcome this and be able to progressively return to strong productivity, we implemented a systematic one trade per floor social distancing requirement. This was particularly important with the sheer intensity of internal fit-out works inside the floorplates. On the envelope, the need to socially distance on the scaffold led to lowered numbers of operatives on any one elevation, however it meant an increase in numbers of active elevations at any one time.
From this scaled down position, we then progressively ramped trades back up as space, progress within zones, and materials supply continuity all gradually improved.
All of this still needed intense daily management and coordination, right through to completion and the team rose to the occasion.
Our relationship and strong support from AUB helped massively with provision of temporary space for welfare within the university, as well as increased ground space allocation during these difficult times to spread out our welfare arrangements. Each of our supply chain partners, alongside the entire Morgan Sindall team, encouraged manufacturers and suppliers to keep production high and supply channels open.
Despite the above issues, we managed to successfully complete this project in November 2020. All VE targeted across all design disciplines was realised without compromising the agreed design intent or quality. Everyone worked tirelessly to help the team on the ground to deliver this fantastic project successfully and to a delighted client who gave us a recommended score of 9/10. The project also received a Considerate Constructor’s Scheme Certificate of Excellence.
100% payment within 30 days terms
BREEAM Very Good
94% waste diverted from landfill
100% timber responsibly sourced
Zero RIDDORs
CCS Score 44/45
45 beneficiaries
32 SMEs
22 jobs created
724 trainee weeks
Schools engagement: 224 students
£9183.00 donations to charity
114 volunteer hours
74% social value created
Handover & Aftercare Contractor Promise
Soft landings for handover
Dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
Email: kingsley.clarke@devon.gov.uk
Phone: 07805760622
Email: alan.smedley@morgansindall.com
Phone: 07967 686066
Project Team
Architects: AWW
Project Manager: SDS
This project was delivered as part of the wider South West Institute of Technology (SWIOT) to allow digital skills to be learnt and developed across the region.
Operating on a tight live city centre campus, the Willmott Dixon team needed to adhere to comprehensive logistic plans to minimise the impact on what is normally a busy campus. Comprising of a steel frame with precast planks, the building features a lecture theatre, triple height atrium space and feature staircase.
Approached designed solution with a ‘kit of parts’ having underlying traditional construction. The façade is clad in ceramic rainscreen to mirror and enhance the local architecture. The principal elevation is made up of curtain walling, with bronze brise solei providing passive shading. Willmott Dixon also interfaced with and refurbished the existing ‘Hele Building’ to be a new home for Exeter College T Level syllabus.
The new building was completed on time and on budget with minimum disruption and the students were able to use this fantastic facility as planned.
The new Digital and Data Centre at Exeter College now provides industry standard facilities which will help plug the digital skills gap in the industry, as well as supporting employers in the region. The centre is a great addition to the local community and interfaces seamlessly with the existing ‘Hele building’ on the college’s Hele Road campus.
99% fair payments made
Committed to embedding the
principles of sustainable living and development
across the whole scope of activities
Zero RIDDORs
477 professional hours spent supporting local people, Exeter College and local partnerships
Handover & Aftercare Contractor Promise
Email: kingsley.clarke@devon.gov.uk
Phone: 07805760622
Email: Guy.Dawes@willmottdixon.co.uk
Phone: 07989 179444