The Green Quarter

Project Overview

Built on a former gasworks site in Southall, a new urban quarter - developed by the Berkeley Group will see the creation of 3750 homes, commercial and community floorspace including a primary school.

Joseph Gallagher was appointed by St Joseph, part of the Berkeley Group to deliver a package of works that included, Phase 1 basement works to deliver a 9500m2 car park, construction of 10 blocks with the tallest consisting of 11 floors.

Following the successful delivery of Phase 1, significant enabling works for Phase 2 and 3 was awarded to Joseph Gallagher. This included dewatering, installation of permanent and temporary drainage, all associated temporary works, setting out, excavation to level, ground remediation for the construction of permanent roads and kerbs, trenching works to facilitate a metered temporary water supply, excavations plus the construction of a batching plant.

Challenges

There were various challenges that were faced and overcome throughout the duration of the works. Here are a few examples of the main challenges we faced and the solutions we implemented to ensure the programme did not slip for the client.

Whilst delivering Phase 3 of the enabling works, delays were caused by the drainage drawings being issued late from the client. As a result, this led to delays to our programme, however we managed to minimise any significant impact by instructing the team to work through the weekend as well as rapidly deploying additional temporary labour from our extensive pool of labour supply.

Another challenge faced involved the mounds, which had to be had to be constructed as per the architects drawings. This was far more challenging than anticipated due to the curved profiles and complexity of the mounds. To help overcome this, Joseph Gallagher invested in bespoke software for our site engineers to set out more accurately and minimise error.

Due to the limited space available on site, we had to use sloped banks for the excavation. To prioritise a safe working area for our operatives, we consulted and employed a specialist subcontractor to install ground anchors to stabilise the slope and allow our operatives to continue working safely.

Added Value

• The utilisation and easy access to Group assets resulted in greater efficiency for our client
• Skilled operatives and highly experienced PMs led to excellent an quality project being delivered for our client
• Proactive management of procurement prior to works commencing, secured major savings on long term fixed prices for high volume materials

Community Involvement

• Supporting our client with community initiatives, promoting campaigns to encourage more 'women into construction'
• Making the site an 'Open Doors' initiative and allowing residents struggling to gain employment a chance to experience the world of construction