The CQS Solutions team used proactive thinking and co-operation to overcome foundation and height constraint challenges in an 80-week project to create 148 high quality apartments over five blocks at The Lampworks in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
CQS Solutions is engaged by the construction manager Build Fifty5 which is acting for Pedrano Engineering and Construction. The overall developer is Cordia UK and it is the developer’s first venture using a construction management contract. The CQS team, led by Zoe Clifton, is providing commercial support on The Lampworks project.
Early into the project the design team raised concerns about the suitability of some of the groundwork elements carried out in an earlier phase, which if left unaddressed could potentially lead to a significant risk to the proposed new structures.
This issue caused a substantial delay in the project timeline as the foundations needed to be re-evaluated, partially removed and redesigned.
The CQS team explored various solutions that balanced cost and time. Team members had to think outside the box, considering alternative foundation and superstructure methods. They completed various cost comparisons and presented the options to Pedrano allowing them to make an informed decision that balanced project completion time with budget constraints.
The other major challenge in the project was that one of the blocks exceeded the height limits for traditional masonry construction, presenting a structural challenge. This required a re-evaluation of the construction method, as continuing with the traditional masonry was not an option.
The CQS Solutions commercial department played a crucial role in this situation by investigating and comparing various construction methods such as LGSF, full structural steel frames and steel podiums. It meant CQS could provide detailed cost analyses and time implications for each option, enabling Pedrano to choose a solution that was both cost-effective and structurally sound.
The CQS team’s involvement in developing commercial templates for the developer’s first construction management contract also contributed to the developer’s experience equipping them with the necessary tools for future success.
It is not a straight-forward project but proactive thinking and co-operation means the CQS team has been able to progress the project and look forward to a successful outcome.