Simon Balle School

Scope of Work:

Laying foundations for a new building that would add new classrooms to the school’s existing facilities; excavating and laying drainage network; forming a hard play permeable sports pitch and laying two car parks.

Description:

This greenfield location was thought to be an historically significant site which attracted archaeological interest and underwent survey before excavation for ground beam and slab (covering 1300m2) could be started. A concrete pump was used to pour the foundations.

Groundworks involved excavating and laying two car parks, first installing a perforated drainage system and connecting to existing system. 2,500m2 of permeable sub-base was installed before applying tarmac to the two car parks. Works also involved remodeling a footpath (adding a tree protection system) and reinstating the school’s tennis court.

Challenges:

• Working adjacent to a ‘live’ school meant delivery times were restricted (i.e. no deliveries permitted during ‘school run’ hours).
• Maintaining site safety at all times.
• Managing archaeological interest which delayed the start date.

Outcome:

Project delivered on time with a successful handover to Balfour Beatty