Darrick Wood Estate, Farnborough, Kent

A scheme involving refurbishment, major demolition and rebuilding works to a general needs housing estate.

Client Keniston Housing Association
Contractor Stonecot Construction Ltd
Contract Sum £2.0m

The project

The Darrick Wood Estate was originally constructed in the early 1980s. It was built of traditional masonry, with timber framing and vertical tile hanging to the first floor at the rear of the houses. Windows were single glazed aluminium.

Our role

Churchill Hui was selected as the preferred partnering consultant for this major repairs programme. This followed concerns from residents about ongoing maintenance problems, particularly related to the sub standard performance of the timber frame and windows.

Our role covered the demolition and rebuilding of the traditional masonry framed section, the replacement of all windows and doors with double glazed ppc aluminium, and the upgrade of electrics and ventilation. All works were carried out with residents remaining in occupation.

The first stage focused on developing the brief for the works, which required close client liaison. This explored opportunities to carry out improvements beyond the areas already identified within the major repairs programme. They included the installation of positive pressure ventilation systems, roof insulation, and new high-security doorsets.

We participated fully in all pre-, during and post-contract meetings with the residents, assisting on issues as they arose. Once the major repairs programme was up and running, later phases could be then specified and brought forward with a reduced level of client involvement, enabling them to focus on other projects.

The result

Keniston Housing Association takes pride in its services and its understanding of the needs of its residents, whether gained through regular face to face meetings or questionnaires.

On completion of this particular major repairs programme, the resident satisfaction survey scored very high. This was commensurate with the overall team effort and cohesion throughout the process.