BACKGROUND
Cranford Community College is a leading secondary school located in the London Borough of Hounslow. When the school looked to upgrade its T-Level science facilities, Inspire Contract Services were invited to tender via a competitive process and were successfully awarded the contract to deliver the project.
The project involved the complete remodelling and refurbishment of the existing classroom to create a state-of-the-art science lab, ensuring compliance with modern safety standards and accessibility requirements.
Inspire needed to overcome a number of challenges throughout this project, such as working in a live school environment. Works were therefore scheduled to minimise disruption to the daily teaching activities with additional strict safety measures put in place in order to segregate construction areas from student pathways.
The existing asbestos flooring also had to be carefully removed and disposed of responsibly in accordance with relevant health and safety regulations.
In addition, enlarging the window openings also required close attention to detail and precision structural support to maintain the integrity of the building. New lintels were installed to provide the necessary reinforcement while the new aluminium framed windows allowed for improved natural light into the building.
THE WORKS
Inspire completed a full strip out of the existing classroom, including internal walls, asbestos flooring, windows, doors, ceiling. The existing external concrete path and handrail were also stripped. We then undertook the following:
- Structural alterations to allow larger aluminium windows to be fitted, including installation of new lintels.
- Installation of a new external aluminium door & replacement of internal doors with new FD30 fire-rated doors for enhanced safety.
- Upgrading the teaching wall to a 60-minute fire-rated specification, ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations.
- Construction of a new external access ramp with a Soft to Touch handrail, improving accessibility.
- Installation of a new wipeable suspended ceiling for easy maintenance.
- Creation of concrete floor to support new equipment & redecoration of walls to create a bright, modern learning environment.
- Formation of a new prep room & installation of new lab furniture and services including DDA-compliant section and accessible sink/eye wash station.
- M&E design package and installation including 3 new fume cupboards and associated ventilation.
THE RESULT
To ensure the smooth and efficient delivery of this project, Inspire Contract Services established a comprehensive site setup, including welfare facilities for site personnel, storage areas for materials and equipment, and secure fencing to maintain site safety and security.
A dedicated full-time, non-working Site Manager was also appointed to oversee the project, ensuring that all works were completed to the highest standards, on time, and within budget.
Despite the challenges faced, Inspire Contract Services were able to successfully deliver this project within the designated 12-week programme. Thanks to exceptional project management, quality workmanship and regular communication with the school, we were able to deliver a modern, fully compliant science laboratory that meets the specific needs of the school.
The successful transformation of Cranford Community College’s science lab ensures that students now have access to cutting-edge resources, supporting their educational journey for years to come. The new facilities will provide students with a modern, well-equipped learning and teaching space, enhancing the school’s ability to deliver their T-Level science curricula.
Overall, this project demonstrates Inspire Contract Service’s ability to deliver high quality, multi-faceted works while working within the constraints of a sensitive, live environment.
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