Priory View
Delivered for Clarion Housing Group
Project introduction
Lawtech have successfully completed the cladding remediation works at Priory View in Southsea, Portsmouth. The project was delivered on time against the EOT programme issued.
Solution/Our Approach
Lawtech were tasked with the replacement of combustible EPS render and timber cladding to all elevations for Priory View, which is 10 storeys at its tallest point, comprising of 71 residential flats.
Non-combustible alternatives including SPS Envirowall EWI and a Rockpanel FS-Xtra rainscreen cladding system were installed.
All balconies were also replaced with AliDeck balcony decking.
Further works included the replacement of localised elements of fire-stopping, fire breaks, cavity barriers, cement particle board and insulation with non-combustible alternatives.
"Lawtech’s commitment to quality was the standout feature on the project, as well as ensuring the residents and visitors were safe during the works. Their clear and regular communication ensured that all stakeholders were up to date on progress and developments. Lawtech have successfully completed further remediation projects for Clarion and I am confident in recommending them for future works."
Challenges
Traffic Management
Traffic management was necessary to minimise the risk of injury from possible interaction between vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Concurrent Projects
Works had to be coordinated with neighbouring site Collins Place, for Vivid Homes. For example, the children's play area had to be shared for waste management and this required effective communication with the team.
COVID-19
Due to the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, arrangements were put in place to protect the workforce on site.
Social Value Impact
Lawtech always look to provide social and added value on all contracts. Our Resident Liaison Officer (RLO) worked with residents to minimise disruption and enhance customer satisfaction.
Community Day
Lawtech hosted a Community Day for residents of Priory View and the neighbouring block. Collins Place. This event provided an opportunity to speak to contractors, ask questions about building safety, and complete feedback forms.
The event included a visiting fire engine, a burger van, a 'smoothie bike', a children's play zone, and a number of stalls. Feedback about the event was excellent.
Community Hub Donations
We also supported Clarion in assisting Fratton Community Hub financially, including a donation of two computer monitors, plywood, two heaters and other materials for projects for the youth group.
In January 2022, The Hub offered two-day CSCS card courses free of charge, giving people the opportunity to gain a qualification to work in the construction industry. For people interested in hospitality, they also offered Food Hygiene courses.
Hiring Local
Lawtech are committed to hiring local where possible. This was demonstrated in this project as we employed 85% of the sub-contractors and four full-time labourers from the local area. The site’s Apprentice RLO was also recruited via a flyer posted through the Community Hub. The local Portsmouth resident has received an NVQ 2 in Business Administration, on-the-job training, mentoring and support from our team. He has been taught skills in Excel, Office 365, customer service, phone manner, business level verbal and written communication, administration skills, and is doing exceptionally well at the company.
Ship2Shore Playground
The children’s play area was proposed to be used for the placement of skips. We had to ensure this was kept tidy at all times. The play equipment was carefully removed and placed in storage and the ground was protected.
As a joint effort between Lawtech, VIVID, and Clarion, a new playground, named 'Ship 2 Shore' was opened in the summer of 2023 for the residents of Collins Place and Priory View.
In addition to members of Lawtech's South Coast Team, around 30 children and their parents attended the opening ceremony. The children were very pleased to have a playground once again, and especially excited to have been given brand new equipment.
