Collaborative working has been at the heart of CQS Solutions’ involvement in the Llain Ddysg affordable housing development at Niwbwrch on the Isle of Anglesey. Delivered on behalf of Isle of Anglesey County Council, the £3.15 million scheme is transforming a former school site into 14 much-needed affordable homes, helping to increase housing provision within a rural Welsh community.
CQS Solutions secured the commission through a competitive fee bid via the Sell2Wales platform and was appointed to provide a fully integrated service, acting as Employer’s Agent and Quantity Surveyor. The development comprises four one-bedroom flats, eight two-bedroom homes, one three-bedroom dwelling and one four-bedroom dwelling, together with associated roads, drainage, infrastructure and external works.
The project required extensive pre-contract planning, including the preparation of cost plans, Employer’s Requirements and tender documentation. One particular challenge was managing market volatility within the construction sector. To provide greater certainty for both the client and contractor, CQS Solutions developed contractual mechanisms to address fluctuations risk and ensure appropriate protection was embedded within the procurement process.
As the project progressed into the design and construction phases, the team worked closely with the client, designers and contractor to ensure compliance with Welsh Government requirements and Secure by Design standards. Early engagement and ongoing collaboration enabled compliance issues to be identified and addressed proactively, helping to maintain programme certainty and minimise risk.
One of the most significant technical challenges involved a live Scottish Power substation and underground high-voltage cables located within the site. The infrastructure restricted construction activities and required detailed liaison with Scottish Power, the client and contractor. CQS Solutions coordinated discussions around legal responsibilities, easements and service diversion requirements, helping to facilitate the safe relocation of infrastructure and ensuring progress could continue without compromising safety or programme objectives.
Throughout the project, CQS Solutions has maintained a strong emphasis on communication, risk management and collaborative problem-solving. By bringing together the client, design team, contractor and statutory stakeholders, the team has helped overcome site-specific challenges while maintaining effective cost control and governance.
The Llain Ddysg development demonstrates CQS Solutions’ expertise in delivering affordable housing through Design and Build procurement, while highlighting the importance of partnership working in achieving successful outcomes.