PORTSLADE INDUSTRIAL UNITS – BREEAM PROJECT

This project included the design and build of two new industrial units and involved BREEAM Certification for a private client.

This was a Design & Build project which had a number of planning conditions that required discharging throughout the build process.

The project consisted of two new steel-built buildings with the flexibility for the tenant to add a mezzanine area and counter units.

Due to this brownfield site being used for a variety of industrial applications, the initial foundations work proved to be a significant challenge. We found numerous unidentified services, which were not able to be positively identified by the utilities companies.

We proceeded with caution and redesigned the foundations around some of the old unknown services. Foundations for the old buildings were also found, and these had old RSJ steel beams buried within the concrete. We had to fully expose the foundations and then diamond wire cut each section to remove.

The building consisted of RC strip foundations, a steel portal frame, secondary steelworks and a Kingspan Trocal insulated roof with integrated skylights. The external walls were finished with Eurocell Euro 60 wall cladding, and a Kingspan AS1000 feature section around the entrance doors which also incorporates a bespoke glass canopy over the entrance.

In addition to the works mentioned above external windows and doors and the roller shutter were upgraded to comply with the additional BREEAM security requirements. The internal finish included a power floated concrete floor and fair faced blockwork to shoulder height. The units were subject to Air and Thermographic Level 2 testing for building control and BREEAM.

The Considerate Contractors Scheme provided additional client, neighbour and
subcontractor engagement, resulting in better training and a healthier environment for all.

Despite the extra complexities and challenges of working alongside BREEAM requirements this project was completed on schedule and to budget.