Project Introduction
The 1,450m2 (GIFA) Centre’s facilities will include an innovation hub, two engineering workshops that will provide space for traditional and modern design, maintenance and manufacturing techniques, an electronics laboratory, CAD/CAM suite, three classrooms, changing rooms and a break-out space. The state-of-the-art facilities will equip learners with STEM skills for the future.
Overcoming Challenges
Short Design Period
We were appointed with a short 5 week mobilisation period before a start date on site of Jan 14th. We rapidly mobilised a design team meeting (DTM) within two days of contract award. Architects CPMG, Engineers, Allan Woods and 7 other specialist subcontractors attended this and as a result kick started the process of developing planning drawings to construction issue. Their expert input as invaluable in further developing a realistic programme and implementing extensive design improvements.
Tight Programme
Working to academic year deadlines to deliver the scheme, required robust programming and support from the supply chain. During subsequent DTMs the programme was developed collaboratively. The already tight programme was pressurised even further by a 2 week weather delay. We re-programmed external works, increased labour with close collaboration with the supply chain and implemented weekend working. We were able to complete areas early to enable the College’s fit out contractors’ access 4 days early to install IT equipment, desks and vending machines ahead of practical completion.
Site Location
Situated on an existing car park, the site required complex traffic management plans which were put in place to manage deliveries and traffic. In particular the colleges’ bus services which departed adjacent to the site. Deliveries were programmed out of hour and we provided additional temporary car park to maintain capacity. The site boundaries were incredibly restrictive, providing just a few meters of working room around three sides to the building.
Soft Landing Handover
To enable the college to settle into the building and give staff the skills to use the building effectively we held familiarisation workshops and the Site Manager maintained a presence on site for two weeks post completion.
Social Value
Careers Talk
In December 2018, Matt Bust and Wayne Brookes (Site Manager at Boston EMAT) delivered a series of careers talks to 23 students from different trades. We spoke to the students about the construction industry and the different careers paths they can take to get into the industry.
Work Experience
During the Boston EMAT project we supported 28 students with work experience placements across a number of different trades. The students spent time with the sub-contractors, gaining valuable skills on what it is like to work on a building site.
Construction Competition
On 22nd May we were asked by Boston College to judge their Construction competition for the bricklaying course. We donated a prize in conjunction with Travis Perkins to the winner which was a toolbox. This is the 2nd year in which Woodhead’s have been judges at the event.