Project Introduction
The project was delivered on time and within budget, with 98.11% of construction waste recycled. New installation of below ground statutory services, included, electric, water and tele communications, prior to construction. Our site team worked with the statutory authority to ensure the timely and safe installation of these services, with minimal disruption to neighbouring businesses or residents. A new entrance was formed for the Edwinstowe Business Centre adjacent to the site. This allowed the original entrance to remain and serve as the site entrance, during construction. A new access and egress route to the carpark was created.
Ground Remediation Works
Pre-construction, our team undertook extensive ground investigation surveys, including soil samples. Results confirmed the elevated levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, below ground gasses, which required encapsulation to prevent escape in the future. We installed a 500 gauge geotextile membrane barrier to encapsulate the gasses and mitigate the risk to future home owners. 500mm of new topsoil was laid over the barrier which was recycled from Rufford Pastures, a housing development constructed by Woodhead Homes, and used on this project.
Minimising Disruption
The site was located in the centre of a busy community, surrounded by pedestrian footfall and road traffic, so we installed solid board hoarding around the site. A pedestrian pathway was created on site, using temporary fencing, allowing safe movement around a confined site which had plant and machinery in operation. Additional measures to the adjacent car park to Edwinstowe Business Centre, included the erection of heras fencing with sheeting installed to protect vehicles from dust. A safety audit was conducted throughout the project.
Conservation Requirements
Our Project Manager worked collaboratively with the Local Authority Conservation Officer to ensure the aesthetics of the homes were in keeping with the conservation features of the local area. This included, traditional Spanish slate roof tiles, Oriel aluminum grey windows, off-site manufacture chimneys and a heritage red brick wall surrounding the development. These bespoke design requirements, had an impact on the overall project timeframe, but were overcome through close partnership working between our site team and suppliers.
Innovation
Throughout the full construction programme, we had 2 Technical Apprentices, dedicated to this project. As part of their learning journey, both apprentices took ownership and leadership in delivering our site visits to visitors and non-construction staff at Woodhead Group, improving knowledge and insight throughout the business. We recognise the value in engaging with local schools and colleges to support young people making important decisions regarding their future careers. Two days of work experience took place with a tutor from West Nottingham College.
Health & Safety
Given that the site was located within the heart of a busy Edwinstowe community, surrounded on all areas by pedestrian footfall and road traffic, we installed solid board hoarding around the whole of the construction site. A pedestrian pathway was created on site for workers and visitors, using temporary fencing, allowing safe movement around a confined site which had plant and machinery in operation. Additional measures to the adjacent car park to Edwinstowe Business Centre, included the erection of heris fencing with sheeting installed to protect vehicles from dust. Safety audit was conducted throughout the project.
A Key Challenge & Solution
Installation of the bespoke oriel aluminum grey windows. A planned method statement was drafted, detailing the step by step sequencing of works alongside detailed risk assessment, which were communicated to the whole team. Our team worked sequentially, installing the Oriel Window one property at a time. To overcome the confined site logical challenges, a cantilever scaffolding over the public footpath, was designed, approved under temporary works and installed to allow the installation of these windows.
CCS Score: 40/50
Tracey Wathall, Edwinstowe House Centre Manager said,
“There was clear communication between myself and the site team. It worked well throughout the project as I was able to plan and support tenants regarding any change of activities. It has been fantastic to see the development grow.”