Westdale were awarded the contract to regenerate 144 non-traditionally constructed low-rise and intermediate-rise properties at Shaftesbury Avenue, Newport.
Project Design
As Principal Contractors, Westdale performed the duty holder role of ‘Principal Designer’ under the CDM regulations 2015, managing the delivery of a number of in-house resources and local supply chains alike. The ‘Principal Designer’ role ensured that we planned the project correctly from the outset – developing the Construction Phase Plan and completing all statutory notifications (inc. HSE F10, liaison with utilities, Planning Permissions, Building Control regulations, and the Control of Asbestos).
Scope of Works
The works consisted of Licensed ACM removal, re-roofing and velux window installation, balcony refurbishment and drainage works and External Wall Insulation (EWI) to first floors, soffits, fascias & gutters, porch roofs, etc.
Communications and Marketing
We facilitated a thorough community engagement exercise with residents, allowing them to ‘meet the team’, giving advance notice of the noisy elements of the work, which provided further reassurance.
We also co-branded a range of communications materials (including Welsh and foreign translation) to the satisfaction of the client. Our innovative Text Message systems provided timely reminders and updates to residents.
Aesthetic Considerations
Westdale worked closely with the client, their agent, and materials specifiers. Working iteratively, our in-house architect-led design team proposed a range of different design options, which took into consideration Newport City Homes’ vision for the estate.
This iterative process resulted in a comprehensive final design solution. As you can see from the before and after pictures featured above and below, the whole blocks were completely transformed and a very pleasing aesthetic achieved.
Delivery Programme
This ambitious programme was delivered within contract timescales of 48 weeks. Works were sequenced intuitively to minimise resident inconvenience, although were initially delayed by the unexpected identification of licensed asbestos in the roof spaces.
Our appointed partner, Shield Environmental, quickly mobilised to site, minimising further delays. The programme trajectory was regained by a series of active programme management methodologies, including increasing resourcing levels.
Problem Resolution
Our strong on-site management presence resulted in fewer ‘unforeseen’ problems, and ensured a responsive resolution to technical issues; through early coordination, we ensured that the project was not forestalled for need of a key decision.
Westdale’s experience of managing in-house resources and local supply chains alike, meant that our delivery timeframe had a positive effect upon minimising resident inconvenience – many of whom were either elderly or infirm.
