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East Anton Primary School
Andover, Hampshire
The Challenge
To minimise energy consumption and maximise occupant comfort, our team focused on the careful design of the building form and selection of materials. In particular, the layout of the proposed building features south facing classrooms with north facing clerestory glazing. This arrangement offers good opportunities for providing generous natural daylight with natural cross ventilation and effective shading from excessive solar gain.
The Solution
Willmott Dixon’s team of education experts have created a new 420 place primary school in Andover. The school provides places for students aged from 4-11 years old and is likely to expand in the future with elements already in place to accommodate this.
This arrangement offers good opportunities for providing generous natural daylight with natural cross ventilation and effective shading from excessive solar gain. The school is highly sustainable with photovoltaics on the roof which provide 10% of the building’s energy use.
The Results
The Primary school provided 420 places for students aged from 4-11 years old and is likely to expand in the future with elements already in place to accommodate this. Set within the East Anton Major Development Area (MDA) the school is being built alongside 2,850 new homes with developer Taylor Wimpey.
1
Apprentices
91.25%
SME Spend
20.5%
Added Value
10
Client Satisfaction
Client Testimonials
Contractor Performance | Commitments
Fair
100% of payments were made promptly and within 30 days
Sustainability
98% diverted from landfill
Safe
Zero harm
Legacy
- Created 9 new jobs through the project
- Career guidance events
- Provided over 186 weeks of training onsite
Aftercare
SCF handover and aftercare process carried out
SCF Framework Manager
Kingsley Clarke
Email: kingsley.clarke@devon.gov.uk
Phone: 07805760622
Contractor Framework Manager
Guy Dawes
Email: guy.dawes@willmottdixon.co.uk
Phone: 07989 179444
Chiltern Lifestyle Centre
Chiltern Lifestyle Centre
Amersham, Buckinghamshire
Project Details
Client
Chiltern District Council
Project Manager
Hadron Consulting
Architect
Space & Place
Contractor
BAM Construction
Value
£33.15 million
Contract Period
133 weeks
Completion Date
6 June 2022
Procurement Type
Design & Build
Form of Contract
JCT 2017
Project Summary
The new lifestyle centre has been designed to replace the 1960s Chiltern Pools Leisure Centre. The council’s aim is to bring together leisure and community services in one centre. The new building will be built alongside the existing one which will be demolished in one of the final phases.
The lifestyle centre will feature:
- 8-lane 25m swimming pool with viewing, diving/teaching pool and splash pad area
- Four badminton court sports hall
- Dry diving training facility
- Squash courts
- Clip ‘n’ climb wall
- Spa
- Library
- Café area
- Multi use games area (MUGA) and play areas
- Community Centre
- Fitness and gym studios
- Children’s soft play area
- 221-space car park.
“The project team is extremely focused on achieving the client’s requirements. BAM and the Design Team have demonstrated a proactive collaborative approach that has built trust to enable effective delivery.”
Community Engagement
Career Development
- Provided six work placements, spending time with the project team during preconstruction and on site shadowing the project team.
- Our Education & Community Coordinator supported the Apprenticeship Evening at Dr Challoner’s Grammar School and a school careers event at Sir William Ramsay School.
- Exhibited at the Bucks Skills Show
- Our Site Manager represented BAM at a careers event at Great Marlow School.
- A careers talk was given to Year 10 students at Aylesbury Grammar School.
- As part of National Careers Week our Education & Community Coordinator talked about careers in the Construction Industry to Y9 at Holmer Green Senior School, before running a workshop with a Y7 Maths class which involved calculating volumes, ordering Lego bricks and building houses to show how Maths is used in the real world.
Education
- Delivered five STEM workshops for Year 8 pupils at Aylesbury Vale Academy.
Local Support
- Shrubs which were removed from site were donated to the local school – St Michael’s School.
- £250 was donated to the Rotary Club of Amersham.
- The project is using the services of Community Wood Recycling, a local social enterprise for waste transfer of wood
Exeter Science Park, Grow on Buildings
Grow on Buildings
Exeter, Devon
Project Details
Client
Exeter Science Park Limited
Project Manager
NPS
Architect
LHC
Contractor
Kier Construction
Value
£5.7m
Contract Period
52 weeks
Form of Contract
NEC Option A
Size
17000 sqft (divided into two) & 10,000 sqft
Project Summary
The design and construction of two new science buildings in the heart of Exeter. The construction consists of a new build steel framed structure, concrete planks for floor, façade treatments carrying from curtain walling, brickwork and fenestration.
Industrial units with CAT A fit out allow for tenant’s own design.
Key Challenges
Space efficient
Extremely space efficient buildings. Built without compromise to a tightly defined budget, yet they’ve achieved an excellent 85% net-to-gross floor area.
Designed with carefully placed cores and primary circulation space which does not reduce the usable area. Flexible floorplans, easily divide-able with vital services already located for whichever configuration is adopted.
Flexibility
Since the users may have limited-time tenancies in the buildings, the space provides a significant degree of flexibility during its life to allow the building to be subdivided in a number of configurations/uses and offering everything from a single-occupier double-storey unit of 1600 sqm to 12 single-storey units of 200 sqm each.
Project Takeaways
Science Building 1
Detached unit with the following features:
- Flexible two storey building
- Gross area – up to 9,000 sq ft
- Offices or Laboratory space
- Raised floors, for floor boxes and cabling
- Suspended ceiling with inset modern (LG7) lighting
- Air-conditioning or natural ventilation options
- Raised floor with anti-static covering and suspended ceiling suitable for extract systems
- Access for the disabled, either ground floor or via lift – including Disability discrimination act compliant WC facilities
Rationale
The Grow-on spaces are the first stand-alone B1(b) Research and Development units on the Park, providing flexible accommodation options for office and/or laboratory use.
The new build facility aimed at users who have progressed beyond the initial research stages of business, and now require larger premises to develop further, whilst remaining within the Science Park campus and its environment of innovation.
Science Building 2
The building can be delivered as either a detached standalone building or a terrace of units enabling greater flexibility, the specifications include:
-
- Two storey flexible building
- Gross area – 3,000 – 16,200 sq ft
- Options to include self-contained terraced units or whole floors
- Offices or laboratory space
- Accessible rear elevation to allow the inclusion of access for larger equipment
Northgate Primary School
Northgate Primary School
Bridgwater, Somerset
Project Details
Project Summary
New build 2FE primary school with nursery classes in a two-storey building with upper floor built to shell and core only to allow the school to be opened as 1FE.
Enabling works involved asbestos strip and demolition of existing hospital buildings occupying the site.
Design Intent
Kier and the design team worked collaboratively to create two alternative solutions, one of which incorporated the client’s land-swap proposal. We worked closely with the Client and Planners to ensure that either proposal would be acceptable. Ultimately, the land deal was completed, and the Client’s preferred option was approved.
The original plan was to include two grass pitches. The pitch specification was subsequently upgraded to include a grass pitch and an all-weather to enable community use.
The initial concept design included brick facades which was not favoured by the Planners and so we redesigned the scheme with a cladding finish that met the Planners Conditions and the Client’s budget.
Kier used our ‘fabric first’ approach to environmental performance management. Through robust design detailing and confidence in our quality installation, we were able to increase the insulation and air-tightness of the building such that the proposed roof-mounted PV cells could be removed from the project and yet still achieve Part L/EPC building performance.
Design Development
The programme was driven by the need to achieve completion and occupation of the school to coincide with the new academic year.
During the project the Academy were chosen to run the school. Working in close collaboration with them and Somerset Council a number of changes were accommodated to allow the final layouts to be amended to suit their operational teaching requirements.
As part of the works a 4G sports pitch was installed to be shared with the local community.
Value Added
Kier were appointed to carry out the demolition of the existing buildings occupying the site and during that phase saved the crushed recycled aggregates to utilise on the new project therefore saving the client considerable sums for disposal of the waste.
The works included areas of ground remediation. This carried out in conjunction with the landscape architect, whereby levels carefully remodelled to minimise soil removals and costs.
“Excellent collaborative approach, the project team worked very well together. Very good quality of service and product.”
John Houlihan
Strategic Manager – Corporate Property
Somerset County Council
“A very impressive project showing the enthusiasm of the site team.”
Considerate Constructors Scheme
Performance Beyond Compliance
Score 42/50
BoFL Croydon Regional Centre
HMRC
Croydon
Project Details
Project Summary
HMRC’s flagship centre in Croydon was devised around the people who use it at its heart – expected to reach 2,500 strong. Shortlisted for a BCO Award, the building’s space is intended to create an environment where collaboration, efficiency and innovation can thrive. The spacious interior houses working areas and secure rooms divided by airy balconies, breakout spaces and cafes. In meeting the government’s challenge of “doing more with less”, this radical new design sets the bar high in revolutionising how civil servants work.
Completed as part of a two-stage design and build to Cat B fit-out standards, the building was handed over in just 23 weeks. This was achieved by efficiently programming the fit-outs to the 10 office floors simultaneously. As testament to our approach to the delivery, the project scored a high Considerate Constructor’s Scheme score of 45/50, with acknowledgement of our team’s commitment to community engagement and providing a positive working environment.
Key Challenges
• The initial design was not sufficiently detailed to allow construction to start.
• There were a significant number of previous outstanding works and base build defects to rectify before our works could commence.
• Significant client changes were made (totaling £1m) to the originally agreed programme of works.
• The modification of the base build installations for accessible users were hindered by complexities.
Our Successes
• To tackle the outstanding base build defects and outstanding works, we provided a turnkey solution using our in-house FM company, Mace Macro to provide interim building and FM services. This enabled the base build defects and outstanding works to be carried out as part of the CAT B programme.
• To accommodate the client change, we were able to carefully reschedule and accelerate suitable work packages. This approach allowed the programme to progress to achieve the additional works required while protecting the client’s move in date, which was sacrosanct.
• A requirement was raised from some of the building’s end-users to make it more accessible to all. We held working groups to listen to their needs and adapt the base build installations accordingly, for example we were able to install automated doors in areas to improve access.
Our Learnings
• Our decision to novate the Stage 3 design was hugely beneficial in accommodating the significant number of client changes and achieving an extremely short preconstruction period on time.
• Hosting working groups for the building’s end-users to discuss any concerns and ideas to make the space more amenable to their requirements was a great success and allowed us to alter the design early to incorporate changes, for example the installation of automated doorways.
Value Added
- In total, our employment and skills targets delivered 91 apprentice and trainee weeks.
- £7.5k was raised by our project team for a local homeless charity.
- Croydon College students studying construction skills were given tours of the project at each stage to give them a valuable insight into the changing dynamics of a live site.
- 83% of project spend was made to SMEs.
- Joinery mock-ups – We built workstation mocks during the preconstruction stage to help the client gauge the final result in terms of materials and build and make informed decisions early to make any changes.
| Contract | Gateway 3 Contract Formation | Gateway 4 Project Completion | Variation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | £16,345,919 | £16,515,504 | +£169,585 (1%) |
| Time | 23 weeks | 23 weeks | 0 |
Barnet Waste Transfer
London
Project Team
Architects: Capita
Electrical: Capita
MEP: Capita
The project was a design and build development of Oakleigh Road South Vehicle Depot to create a Barnet Council vehicle depot and a base for their fleet of 46 household recyclable waste collection vehicles.
The Challenge
There were several challenges faced throughout this project. There was restricted access on a long and narrow site which caused difficulties when trying to overcome other challenges such as dealing with the below ground water, removing underground drainage structures and the buried hazardous waste.
The Solution
To overcome the narrow site, the Willmott Dixon team worked in a ‘patchwork’ fashion, sectioning off the works and moving operations around to keep the access road fully open throughout the build.
Willmott Dixon found existing sewers and then got permission from Thames Water to use them instead for the below ground water. They found a solution using a land drain pump to drain the ground water which was causing surface water.
The Results
Now built, the depot will allow Barnet Council to operate its vehicle maintenance and recycling collection fleet from single coordinated site, ensuring the most efficient service for residents across the borough. The construction also consisted of a tractor barn and car parking, together with associated ancillary facilities, a recycling waste transfer building and bulking facility, a two storey office and welfare building.
2
New Apprenticeships
Apprentices
88%
SME Spend
£1.2m
Raised levels by introducing engineered ground geotextile, saving £720k
Resulting in programme saving £110k
Added surveys resulting in reduced risk on hazardous waste, saving £205k
Added Value
9/10
Client Satisfaction
Contractor Performance | Commitments
Fair
Regular payments and payment periods did not exceed 30 days
Sustainability
Early contractor engagement realised that by raising finished floor levels by introducing an engineered ground geotextile design produced a saving of c£720k, helping significantly reduce excavated materials
Safe
Zero RIDDORs
Legacy
2 starter apprentices who went on to gain full time graduate employment
Aftercare
SCF handover and aftercare promised carried out
SCF Framework Manager
Alex Nelhams
Email: alex.nelhams@hants.gov.uk
Phone: 07717 003869
Contractor Framework Manager
Guy Dawes
Email: guy.dawes@willmottdixon.co.uk
Phone: 07989179444
Middlemoor Criminal Justice Centre
Exeter
The Challenge
The main challenges relating to this project were optimising the design to meet budget and making sure the design of the custody cells were Ministry of Justice compliant.
The Solution
Early appointment formed an ‘integrated team’ newly formed with common agreed objectives were able to de-risk prior to any works commencing on site. This aided and protected final account predictability which contributed to completing on time and on budget.
Built to Ministry of Justice standards using the Yellow book design guide providing first-class accommodation for solicitors and partners has been incorporated in the design, including interview rooms and medical suites. The custody centre will use modern technology to monitor the health of vulnerable detainees and offers a virtual courts system. The linked-hub buildings provide modern office and meeting space for all operational police functions.
The Results
Completed on time and on budget. Willmott Dixon worked collaboratively with their Works Partner of the Year, Stephenson Group, to reduce the in-situ concrete frame programme by 12 weeks Exeter Police Station met all the requirements for Time, Cost and Quality achievements: defect free, on budget and handed over on time after being completed two weeks early. The project used 67% Mandated Suppliers and 82% Cat A suppliers, proving that building closer relationships builds trust and improves quality and service BREEAM Excellent certification accredited to design stage and is in UK’s top 10% sustainable buildings.
6
6 work placements and 6 ex-offenders trained in Willmott Dixon’s Building Lives Academy
Apprentices
78%
within 50 miles of the site
SME Spend
£6.3m
Added Value
10
Client Satisfaction
Client Testimonials
Contractor Performance | Commitments
Fair
99% of regular payments and payment periods did not exceed 30 days
Sustainability
The facility uses 22% less energy than a traditional building of the same size, generates 68kwh of electricity a year from solar panels and carbon generated from its construction has been offset
Safe
Zero RIDDORs
Legacy
Held 100 school children visits
1,600 students engaged at career events and workshops
2 ex-military personnel joined the construction industry
Aftercare
Zero defects at handover & aftercare
