Vocational Learning Centre

Newton Aycliffe

A partnering project for the construction of a 2 storey Vocational Learning Centre for 16 – 19 year olds, on a brownfield site in Newton Aycliffe. The site had many environmentally sensitive features including a colony of Great Crested Newts. Consequently these were relocated prior to commencing of the construction phase of the main project with the installation of protective barriers to prevent migration back to their habitat until the site was vacated. Commencement of the construction phase was deferred until the end of the spawning season whilst specific Risk Assessments and Action Plans had to be in place to protect the relocated habitat from encroachment by the construction activities.

We contributed significantly to integrated working with the team to develop detailed design, resolve issues of buildability and develop the Target Cost. That collaborative process also involved key members of our supply chain to ensure that a best value approach was adopted by all parties to the project.

Sustainability was a key driver for the project and workshops enthusiastically engaged in the development of initiatives to benefit the project, especially in respect of renewable energy supplies e.g. ground source heat pumps, photovoltaic, grey water recycling etc.in order to achieve a BREEAM 'Excellent' rating.