Archives
Newlands Primary School
The Challenge
- Selecting a frame structure which met HCC’s fabric-first principles and prioritised energy-efficiency through the building envelope.
- Unique to other panel systems, the Streif timber frame solution provides fully made cassette panels including external doors and windows already installed and M&E systems pre-measured and cut-out. It was therefore critical to get these details correct from the start, so the timber frame was dispatched on time to meet key site deadlines and ensure the school was ready for the term start.
- The primary school was built on a new housing estate which was still in construction. This meant coordination with the housing developer and associated housing contractors was critical to ensuring a safe and efficient delivery for both the new school and housing development.
- Ensuring business as usual was maintained for local residents and associated roadways.
The Solution
- Aligned with the fabric-first design intent, the Streif panelised timber frame solution was adopted for its myriad benefits over traditional structures including improved U-values, reduced embodied carbon and quicker watertightness; while leveraging experience from previous Streif projects.
- Seamless coordination with the supply chain was critical to maintaining the ambitious programme. Numerous coordination meetings were executed with MEP, stairs and groundwork specialists, ensuring a fully coordinated design, manufactured and delivered on-time. This meticulous planning enabled a seamless ‘soft landings’ approach with FF&E and IT specialists, guaranteeing the school was fully operational for the new term start.
- The local SHE Manager, supported by the project manager and delivery team ensured MSC’s 100% Safe culture was implemented through a Safety Action Group and Health & Safety pledge.
- Coordinated liaison and communication through regular progress meetings with the housing developer and associated housing contractors. In addition, there was a controlled gate person and wheel washing for all vehicles to ensure the access and surrounding roads were kept clean. A comprehensive traffic management plan ensured ‘just in time’ deliveries, while large directional signage helped deliveries follow the designated route and avoid the local school and minor roads through the new estate.
The Results
- Championing the ‘fabric first’ design philosophy, the Streif system resulted in exceptional environmental performance with an air test rating of 1.90m3/(h.m2)@50Pa.
- The proactive approach ensured timely delivery of the timber frame; subsequently meeting key deadline dates.
- The project achieved ‘Perfect Delivery’, meaning it was delivered 100% Safe, on-time, within budget, and to a delighted customer.
- Successfully achieved a CCS score of 43/45 – receiving ‘Excellent’ across all criteria including ‘Respect the Community.’
7
Number of apprentices
81%
SME Spend
£1,676,239.00
Added Value
9/10
Client Satisfaction
Contractor Performance | Commitments
Legacy
34 SMEs (89% local spend) ; 68% labour (local)
14 beneficiaries, 6 jobs created, 32.5 trainee weeks
School’s engagement: 281 students/ 92 hours
T-Level student from Havant & South Downs College
57% social value created
Aftercare
Soft landings for handover
Dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
Sustainability
100% waste diverted from landfill
100% timber responsibly sourced
37.5 tonnes of CO2e saved through our 10 Tonne Carbon Challenge (embodied carbon)
44 tonnes of CO2e saved from emissions (Scopes 1,2 and 3)
47kg/ 100k turnover carbon footprint (against 454kg target)
Safe
Zero RIDDORS
CCS Score 43/45
Fair
100% payment within 30 days terms
Client Testimonials
Oakmoor Secondary School
The Challenge
The project involved expanding Oakmoor Secondary School from a 6form entry (900 pupils) to an 8form entry school (1,200 pupils). This required the construction of a new twostorey extension that would integrate seamlessly with the existing building.
From the outset, the team needed to ensure the new facility would connect both physically and aesthetically to the current school infrastructure. Although this interface created its own technical complexities, the most significant challenge was delivering the project within a fully operational school environment.
Working within a live environment meant always ensuring the safety and continuity of school operations. Several key access and operational requirements shaped the team’s approach, including:
- Maintaining a 24/7 pedestrian route between the extended car park and the sports facility, heavily used by both students and the local community.
- Carefully managing vehicle and pedestrian movements to ensure construction activities did not disrupt daily access to teaching spaces or amenities.
- Constructing the new car park and building extension simultaneously, which required precise sequencing and coordination to maintain safe, functional layouts throughout the works.
In addition to external works, internal alterations were also required. One existing classroom needed to be temporarily repurposed to form a new fire escape route. This involved:
- Removing an internal curtain wall, requiring meticulous planning to maintain safety and regulatory compliance.
- Carrying out works adjacent to live classrooms and the library, meaning noise control, communication, and collaboration with teaching staff were critical.
- Ensuring minimal disruption to lessons, with sensitive activities scheduled around the school day wherever possible.
The Solution
The key objective here was to minimise the disruption to the school, with all activities carefully aligned to the school’s daily routine and wider academic calendar. Regular coordination meetings with the school allowed the team to anticipate upcoming events, address operational concerns, and adjust the programme to ensure the works complemented rather than conflicted with school activities.
To further reduce impact, all high‑risk or intrusive construction tasks—such as forming structural connections into the existing building—were deliberately scheduled during school holiday periods when the site was quieter and safer to access. Additionally, certain essential surveys and intrusive investigations were carried out during evenings or weekends, enabling progress while preserving a calm, uninterrupted learning environment during the school day.
The Results
Despite the complexities of working within a fully operational school environment, the project delivered strong outcomes that reflected effective planning, close collaboration, and disciplined site management. Key achievements included:
- The building was handed over on time and within budget.
- The project team achieved Perfect Delivery.
- 24/7 public access to sports facilities was maintained throughout the construction period.
- Safe and clearly managed routes for both pedestrians and vehicles were upheld in a live school environment.
- Internal fire escape routes were reconfigured safely with minimal disruption to teaching.
- All disruptive works were completed during school holidays or out of hours, protecting the learning environment.
- Consistent and effective communication with the school was maintained through regular planning and coordination meetings.
- The library and adjoining classrooms remained largely unaffected by noise or disruption during construction.
- Successful integration of the new extension, ensuring it matched the existing building’s design both aesthetically and structurally.
9
Number of apprentices
75%
SME Spend
£414k
Added Value
10/10
Client Satisfaction
Contractor Performance | Commitments
Legacy
30 No of SMEs (75% spend/ 70% local spend) & 58% local labour
19 beneficiaries, 5 jobs created, 94 trainee weeks
T-Level student from Havant & South Downs College
Schools engagement: 989 students/ 19 hours
£1,253 donations to charity, 44% social value created
Aftercare
Soft landings for handover
Dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
Sustainability
100% waste diverted from landfill
100% timber responsibly sourced
86.8t carbon saved on 10t carbon challenge (embodied carbon)
19t carbon saved from emissions (Scopes 1,2,3)
Carbon footprint 104kgs/ 100k turnover (against 454kgs target)
Safe
Zero RIDDORS
CCS Score 42/45
Fair
100% payment within 30 days terms
Client Testimonials
The Castle School
The Challenge
The Castle School project in Thornbury required a significant expansion to support its growing Sixth Form cohort, requiring a new three‑storey extension for Maths and Science teaching. The project also required a link bridge connecting the new block to the existing secondary school building, ensuring a seamless campus layout.
However, delivering this scheme posed several key challenges largely around disruption to the school; this included:
- Working within a live school environment: Works were undertaken while the school remained open, meaning student safety, staff access, and uninterrupted learning had to be protected at all times.
- Complex ground conditions: Beneath the preserved tarmac areas lay Type 1 build-up and shallow hard rock, meaning foundation and drainage works required drilling operations that risked generating prolonged noise.
- Tight exam‑based restrictions: Noisy or disruptive works could not clash with GCSE and A‑Level exam periods, narrowing the available working windows.
- Sensitive neighbouring receptors: Surrounding residential streets—Park Road, Regents Close, Alexandra Way—and a nearby care home required careful environmental management around noise and dust.
- Busy school‑day traffic movements: With hundreds of daily drop‑offs and pick‑ups, deliveries needed strict control to avoid congestion and maintain site safety
The Solution
The project team implemented a comprehensive package of operational controls, programming adjustments, and environmental protections to deliver the new block safely and efficiently.
- Disruptive works such as rockbreaking and drilling tasks were scheduled outside exam periods, with the majority delivered during the summer holidays to avoid noise during teaching hours.
- The team kept as much of the existing roadway and hardstanding in place which reduced unnecessary ground disturbance, improved site cleanliness, and prevented mud tracking onto public routes
- Timed delivery restrictions were introduced to avoid conflict with school traffic. No deliveries were allowed between:
- 8:00–8:45am (dropoff)
- 3:30–4:00pm (pickup)
- Deliveries were also precisely coordinated through a JustinTime management system, ensuring materials arrived only when needed, between 9:30am and 2:30pm, again, reducing onsite congestion and eliminating unnecessary vehicle idling.
- Noise was controlled with clear environmental thresholds established:
- 75dB – warning limit
- 85dB – “dead stop” limit requiring immediate cessation of works
- Decibel monitors were installed at multiple sensitive locations, including Park Road, Regents Close, Alexandra Way Residential Care Home, and a nearby new housing estate.
- Lastly, a robust traffic management strategy was implemented.
The Results
Through meticulous planning and a proactive approach to environmental and stakeholder management, the project was delivered with:
- Minimal disruption to school life, including zero clashes with exams despite significant drilling and groundworks.
- Enhanced safety for students, staff, visitors, and construction personnel due to carefully managed vehicle movements and clear site logistics.
- Excellent environmental performance, with noise and dust impacts effectively controlled and monitored in real time.
- A modern, connected Sixth Form facility offering highquality Maths and Science teaching spaces, improving the school’s capacity and creating a more cohesive campus layout.
- A successfully delivered project that demonstrates how thoughtful planning enables significant construction activity within challenging live school environments.
Amid the challenges faced, the project was delivered one week ahead of programme.
10
Number of apprentices
69.4%
SME Spend
£53,700
Added Value
9/10
Client Satisfaction
Contractor Performance | Commitments
Legacy
87.1% No of SMEs, 15 jobs created, 12 Work Experience (11 – in Education/ 1 – not in education)
546 training weeks on site (Apprenticeships, Traineeships, Technical/Higher Level Qualifications)
£1.3k donations to charity/material donations, 28 volunteer hours, £6.5m social value created
Sustainability
100% waste diverted from landfill
43T of CO2e saved
100% timber responsibly sourced
Aftercare
Soft landings for handover
Dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
Safe
Zero RIDDORs
CCS Score 45/45
100% Safe
Fair
100% payment within 30 days terms
Client Testimonials
Stanhope Primary School
The Challenge
- Selecting a frame structure which met HCC’s fabric-first principles and prioritised energy-efficiency through the building envelope.
- Unique to other panel systems, the Streif timber frame solution provides fully made cassette panels including external doors and windows already installed and M&E systems pre-measured and cut-out. It was therefore critical to get these details correct from the start, so the timber frame was dispatched on time to meet key site deadlines and ensure the school was ready for the September 2025 term start.
- Ensuring fire safety compliance for timber frame construction and hot works.
- Facilitating site readiness by implementing strategic remediation and sustainable soil management protocols.
- Selecting a ventilation system which supported the project’s energy and design efficiency requirements.
The Solution
- Aligned with the fabric-first design intent, the Streif panelised timber frame solution was adopted for its myriad benefits over traditional structures including improved U-values, reduced embodied carbon and quicker watertightness; while leveraging experience from previous Streif projects.
- Seamless coordination with the supply chain was critical to maintaining the programme. Numerous coordination meetings were executed with MEP, stairs and groundwork specialists, ensuring fully coordinated design, manufactured and delivered on-time. This meticulous planning enabled a seamless ‘soft landings’ approach with FF&E and IT specialists, guaranteeing the school was fully operational for the new term start.
- Fire safety was rigorously managed throughout the construction process, with strict adherence to the Safe2Torch policy, MSC’s hot work protocols, and the implementation of thorough fire watch procedures.
- Existing soils were stockpiled and tested for suitability. Materials that did not meet the required standards were removed. Where possible, retaining/ reusing soils and materials was prioritised, reducing waste and supporting sustainability while meeting all remediation requirements.
- MVHR units were selected instead of ASHP primarily to reduce pressure within ceiling voids.
The Results
- Championing the ‘fabric first’ design philosophy, the Streif system resulted in exceptional environmental performance with an air test rating of 1.16m3/(h.m2)@50Pa and near-Net Zero status of 205CO2.
- The proactive approach ensured timely delivery of the timber frame; subsequently meeting key deadline dates.
- The project achieved ‘Perfect Delivery’, meaning it was delivered 100% Safe, on-time, within budget and to a delighted customer.
- Successfully implemented and complied with the remediation strategy; while also supporting sustainability aspirations which included 100% waste diverted from landfill.
- By using localised smaller MVHR units, ductwork and material usage was minimised, achieving a more efficient design while preserving ceiling space for other services.
12
Number of apprentices
82.22%
SME Spend
£1,157, 163
Added Value
9/10
Client Satisfaction
Contractor Performance | Commitments
Legacy
12 apprentices, 37 SMEs , 27 beneficiaries, 6 jobs created,
108 trainee weeks and 2,722 students engaged
£9,000 donations to charity
39% social value created
Community Quad – 2,574 hours
Sustainability
100% timber responsibly sourced and waste diverted from landfill
226kg/ 100k carbon footprint (against target of 454kg)
30.6 tonnes CO2e saved in MSC 10 Tonne Carbon Challenge (embodied carbon)
17 tonnes of CO2e saved from emissions (Scopes 1,2 and 3)
Waste reduction with 0.71 tonnes per £100k spend, outperforming the national target of 1.28
Aftercare
Soft landings for handover
Dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
Safe
Zero RIDDORs
CCS Score 45/45
CCS Bronze Award
Fair
100% payment within 30 days terms
Client Testimonials
Live Fire Training Facility
The Challenge
Ensuring a heat protection strategy due to the function of the building.
The new facility was designed to present fire fighters with the experience of tackling fires in a controlled situation. The facility provides them with an environment where they can study how fire behaves in different conditions and the best practices to respond to the fire. With the facility use in mind, it was important that the facility was designed to withstand serious fire.
Negating challenges faced working within a live blue light environment.
The project took place at the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service HQ, where training took place in close proximity to the site. The site was also shared with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary, which meant there were a number of parties to be mindful of during the build and it was pivotal we maintained their daily activities.
Managing safety on the project with forward planning and frequent communication.
Numerous challenges were faced during the construction of the live fire building including coordination of the crane, working at height and being in close proximity to the local airport and railway.
The Solution
Morgan Sindall’s structural engineer designed wall, floor and ceiling protection to burn areas, ensuring the building’s external structure remained below the Eurocode requirement of 60 degrees. Temperature sensors were installed to manage internal temperatures, which means should ceiling temperatures reach 450 degrees, they trigger an audible/ visual alarm system that alerts trainers of overheating and trigger the manual extinguishing of heat source with a hose.
Extensive communication and planning was key to managing the project in this live environment occupied by emergency services. This was successfully managed through weekly coordination meetings with the client to ensure activities were planned around their timetable to minimise disruptive activities during their busier periods. A full-time banks person was also employed to manage and coordinate deliveries with the fire service.
These safety challenges were negated through careful planning and collaboration including:
- Choosing the right crane mat to ensure the ground would be able to maintain the weight of a circa 120t crane. Subsequently, CVR tests and a sub-base ensured the ground was safe to withhold the crane
- Using the Easi Edge safety system for working at height with its temporary edge protection barriers
- Acquiring a crane permit due the close proximity of the local airport and Basic Asset Protection Agreement (BAPA) permit for working close to the railway
The Results
The Live Fire Training Facility is one of very few of its kind in operation and presents vital experience to trainees as they tackle controlled fire situations whilst experiencing realistic after-effects and complications under supervision; forming a key part of fire fighters training in Hampshire and the surrounding areas.
5
Apprentices
70%
SME Spend
29.5%
Added Value
8/10
Client Satisfaction
Contractor Performance | Commitments
Legacy
15 SMEs (9 local) – 13 beneficiaries – 3 jobs created
Schools engagement: 949 students – 130 trainee weeks
£1.93 LM3 – 92% social value created
Sustainability
16.2 tonnes carbon equivalent saved in Morgan Sindall’s 10 Tonne Carbon Challenge by changing the heat protection tile supplier to a UK supplier, reducing number of and distance of deliveries
98% waste diverted from landfill
7 biodiversity enhancements
Aftercare
Soft landings for handover
Dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
Safe
Zero RIDDORS
CCS Score 40/45
Fair
100% payment within 30 days terms
Client Testimonials
Cosham Fire Station
The Challenge
Cosham Fire Station is one of three new fire stations constructed by Morgan Sindall Construction for our client, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue (HIWFRS). Delivered through the Southern Construction Framework (SCF), the new facility contributes to the HIWFRS’s wider initiative to regenerate their fire stations via a £27m investment.
The aspiration for this project was to provide a new and enhanced facility with state-of-the-art equipment, which, would improve the level of training operatives could receive. Part of the overall scope of works required the inclusion of staff welfare facilities, community facilities and a Police Station.
A safer facility was also crucial, with operatives often left covered in toxins which could have potentially long-term detrimental effects to their health. Therefore, the design of the building was carefully considered to ensure it could meet this requirement.
The Solution
The previous Cosham Fire Station was located on Wayte Street in Cosham. However, with an eye on having a larger facility, the new fire station was relocated onto the land of the former Portsmouth Craft and Manufacturing Industries (PCMI) on Northern Road. However, demolition was required to the PCMI buildings, which was subcontracted to HWM Group. The relocation of the fire station was fundamental as the new facility spreads across two acres of land and is three stories high.
The larger facility meant that it was possible to design and embed a decontamination route into the building. This ensures operatives now follow a decontamination process as they navigate through the building. The decontamination route is colour coded as:
- Red – Removal of contaminated clothing
- Amber – Shower and clean for removal of smoke on skin etc.
- Green – Decontaminated area such as admin wing and appliance bay
The new route mitigates the transfer and inhalation of toxins for the operatives, in turn, providing a safer working environment for the operatives.
The Results
Along with providing a safer space for operatives, the facility will act as a training hub for the East region of Cosham. The facility includes a new training tower along with additional training facilities for the workers. The improved facilities will now provide operatives with the best training possible to respond to emergencies in the most effective way possible.
Cosham Fire Station had been designed in such a way, that both the exit and entrance could be adapted; providing trainees a challenge every time they enter the building.
19
Apprentices
92%
SME Spend
£2.1m
Added Value
9/10
Client Satisfaction
Contractor Performance | Commitments
Legacy
37 No of SMEs – 44 beneficiaries – 10 jobs created – 526 trainee weeks – Schools engagement – 147 students – 100 volunteer hours – £1.70 LM3 – 88% social value created – £3k donated to the Queen Alexandra (QA) Hospital Portsmouth – 16 School engagement events
Sustainability
96% waste diverted from landfill
100% timber responsibly sourced
10T challenge successfully completed – 556T co2e saved
Aftercare
Soft landings for handover
Dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
Safe
Zero RIDDORs
No lost time incidents
CCS Score 43/45
Fair
100% payment within 30 days terms
Client Testimonials
Winton Community Academy
The Challenge
Challenge 1
Winton Academy was a logistically tight and challenging site. This was due to the fact that construction was surrounded on all four sides by live class blocks and with a farm within close proximity.
Challenge 2
There was great emphasis placed on the quality of the new facility; however due to the lack of space on site, the team were unable to accommodate a ‘benchmark’ room.
The Solution
Solution 1
To manage the logistically challenging site, a thorough and robust plan of action for safety on the project was required, including the following:
Frequent and regular communication with the school, client and all stakeholders involved
‘Just in Time’ deliveries were opted where possible, due to minimal storage space on-site
The project team segregated the site with hoarding
‘Movement times’ required on the project meant if there were any deliveries, the team could only move materials during certain periods of the day
Further barriers such as Heras fencing were installed to segregate the team from the school and the farm
Solution 2
The team had samples for a number of materials that would be used throughout the project, including:
CLT – Brickwork – Mortar – Flooring
Along with the material samples, the team undertook daily inspections which were recorded on the Site Information Management System. Additionally, weekly quality inspections were undertaken by the client and third-party inspections were undertaken of the flat roof installation, with a written report provided. Lastly, 360o photographic evidence via Oculo was used on the project to ensure Quality Assurance.
The Results
The team successfully mitigated the impact of the site works to both the school and local community, as demonstrated in the Considerate Constructors Site Report which achieved 15/15 for ‘Respect the Community’ and Customer Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) which scored 10/10 for safety.
6
Apprentices
85%
SME Spend
£658k
Added Value
10/10
Client Satisfaction
Contractor Performance | Commitments
Legacy
39 No of SMEs – 18 beneficiaries – 7 jobs created – 53 trainee weeks
Schools engagement: 2955 students & 131 hours
£175 donations to charity – £2.32 LM3
78% social value created – 88% local spend
Sustainability
100% waste diverted from landfill
100% timber responsibly sourced
Aftercare
Soft landings for handover and a dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
Safe
Zero RIDDORS – CCS Score 44/45
Fair
100% payment within 30 days terms
Client Testimonials
Philip Southcote School
The Challenge
Deliver a new build SEN school block and separate hydrotherapy pool within the ground of the existing PSS school site whilst the school remains live and operational. Hydrotherapy block added into scheme after Teaching block works had commenced making logistics on project challenging and tight. Hydro Pool block also instructed as a D&B phase being taken from concept design through to completion by MSC.
The Solution
- Fully collaborative and open approach implemented by MSC and client team.
- Close and careful planning of site logistics to ensure both TB and HP works could progress efficiently and safely.
- Close and vigilant management of quality on site by MSC team and client Clerk of works.
- Regular engagement with school and local stakeholders such as residents, fire station and football club.
The Results
- Teaching Block handed over and in use in line with original contract completion date.
- Hydrotherapy Pool in use in line with agreed date.
- Delighted end user.
6
Apprentices
60%
SME Spend
£2,331,003
Added Value
9/10
Client Satisfaction
Contractor Performance | Commitments
Legacy
29 SME’s used on the project
6 new entrants, a total of 57 locally employed employees, equivalent to 5.79FTE
168 training weeks completed during project delivery
Schools engagement: 9 students completed a work experience placement, MSC attended 4 CIAG events interacting with 380 students.
£650 donations to charity, in addition the site team contributed 5 (1 per MSC staff member) hampers towards our Christmas Hamper drive, which we donated to local Runnymede Foodbank
£1.79 per £1 – 24.95% social value created
We collaborated with both Philip Southcote School and Fordway AP to launch a pilot work experience programme, giving 16 students the opportunity to explore a range of disciplines across the construction industry. Throughout the week, students engaged in site tours, met professionals from various roles, and took part in open, honest conversations about careers in the field. The programme concluded with student teams presenting their ideas on how to improve sustainability in the build. Feedback from both students and teachers highlighted the positive impact and inspiration the experience delivered.
Sustainability
100% waste diverted from landfill
100% timber responsibly sourced
Storage and reuse of stripped top soil at the start of the project, did not require any imported top soil to reinstate the field area, reducing the carbon of the project by 12.7 tonnes.
Aftercare
Good communication between MSC/ Client team/ End user regards post completion works.
Continuation of delivery into aftercare – Chris Horsley is dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact for aftercare supported by Steve Sear
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
Safe
Zero RIDDORS
CCS Score 44/45
Fair
100% payment within 30 days terms
Client Testimonials
Abbey View Primary Academy
The Challenge
The design was carried out in two volumes – developing the design for the school and for future extension. The project had a BIM Level 2 requirement with a verification point cloud survey to be carried out prior to handing over the asset information model.
The biggest challenge was the Building Control review of the high performance fast-track SIPS construction and associated structural elements (supporting steelwork and precast concrete first floor and stairs).
The Solution
Morgan Sindall took the project from RIBA Stage 2 and developed the design to Stage 5. A BIM model was produced which incorporated the architectural, structural, civil, MEPH and specialist sprinkler designs. The FF&E and catering subcontractor models were developed alter and incorporated in the Project Information Model.
The school was built using Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) structural frame with a series of panels manufactured off-site and assembled on-site. To make best use of the clash detection process, the SIPSs subcontractor Innovare began work alongside the design consultants at Stage 3. The MEPH subcontractor also began work early during the design period allowing access zones around the plan equipment to be added to the BIM Execution Plan as a modelling item. Once the SIPs frame was installed, it was laser scanned. The scan output could then be used to compare the built asset against the digital model.
The Results
The use of a Project Information Manager was invaluable to the design team meeting COBie requirements. This resulted in the last validation reporting showing Stage 4 data was on target and met the Information Exchange requirements. The design team continued to develop the model with a final update carried out after the point cloud information was issued to form an accurate Asset Information Model.
The off-site manufacture approach created a bespoke solution which provide cost efficiencies through a standardisation of the process and increases sustainability through a fabric-first approach. The SIPs were manufactured under factory controlled conditions resulting in a system that was extremely quick to install, strong, energy-efficient and cost and time effective.
6
Apprentices
91%
SME Spend
£600k
Added Value
8/10
Client Satisfaction
Contractor Performance | Commitments
Legacy
29 No of SMEs – 22 beneficiaries – 5 jobs created – 155 trainee weeks
Schools engagement: 30 students – 86% social value created
£300 donations to charity – 30 volunteer hours
Sustainability
97% waste diverted from landfill
100% timber responsibly sourced
Order placed with Community Wood Recycling and a wood recycling bay for regular collections was set up. This resulted in 14.3 tonnes collected with a saving of £492.06 and the majority being high-grade reuse.
Aftercare
Soft landings for handover
Dedicated Morgan Sindall point of contact
On-line portal for notifying any defects with 3 priority categories for response times
Safe
Zero RIDDORS
CCS Score 43/45
Fair
100% payment within 30 days terms
Client Testimonials
Silverwood SEND School
The Challenge
Built to be net-zero in operation, Silverwood also represents the future of sustainable education estates. The school reaches net zero carbon through a combination of renewable energy and low-carbon systems and materials.
The Solution
Over 1,000 solar panels generate more than 400 MWh annually—enough to power the entire facility, with surplus energy exported to the local grid. Three biomass boilers provide sustainable heating. In a pioneering community energy initiative, the solar panels are owned and operated by Wiltshire Wildlife Community Energy, generating approximately £5,000 annually to support environmental education at the school. Material choices were also at the heart of Silverwood’s highly sustainable build with embodied carbon reduced through use of a Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) frame.
The Results
As a result of the precise construction methods and materials, the building achieves an airtightness score of 1.843/hr/m2 - that’s highly energy efficient compared to the average modern building, which is around 53/hr/m2. The school also achieves an EPC score of –13. The negative number indicates that the building generates more energy than it consumes annually. Sustainability by design drove every element of the project plan. Silverwood achieved remarkable results in construction waste management: 98.8% of all construction waste was diverted from landfill. This positive environmental outcome was achieved through a comprehensive Material Management Plan.
The project diverted 25,000 m³ of excavated material for complete on-site reuse, while 1,096 pallets were collected by Pallet Loop for reuse instead of disposal. Community Wood Recycling Social Enterprise collected 256 tonnes of timber from the site, and 10 pallets of spare bricks were donated to St Edmunds Society for apprentice training.
Silverwood students also gained valuable learning opportunities by constructing bird boxes made with reused waste timber from the construction site. All hard and soft plastics were segregated and recycled. Insulation offcuts were collected and sent offsite for reuse.
By reusing 100% of excavated material on-site rather than disposing to landfill, the project saved an estimated £715,000 in avoided disposal costs. This calculation factors in landfill gate fees, landfill tax, and haulage costs minus onsite management expenses, demonstrating that sustainable construction makes both environmental and economic sense.
8
Apprentices
£25,662,320
SME Spend
£792,000
SROi
8/10
Client Satisfaction
Contractor Performance | Commitments
Legacy
6718 students engaged with and 115 trainee weeks
Sustainability
4% Biodiversity net gain 25,000m3 excavated materials reused on site
Safe
Zero RIDDORS
Fair
100% payment within 30 days terms
Aftercare
Soft landings for handover
Client Testimonials
