The Project
Mitchell Court, located on Alness Street, represents a significant development project undertaken for West of Scotland Housing Association, with a contract value of £2.6 million. The project, initially planned for 48 weeks, extended to 58 weeks due to various challenges encountered during construction. This development marked a notable milestone as Procast's first new building project.
Overview
The Approach
The comprehensive development encompassed a full ground works package, including both hard and soft landscaping elements. The project's infrastructure included the installation of essential services such as electricity, gas, water supply, EV charging stations, and street lighting. The construction featured full timber kit new build flats, complemented by modern amenities. A particular emphasis was placed on sustainable technology, with the integration of solar panels and electrical vehicle charging points, demonstrating a commitment to future-ready housing solutions.
Weather conditions posed significant challenges throughout the construction period. The development faced disruptions from severe storms, with high winds affecting scaffolding and raising health and safety concerns. Additionally, the combination of heavy rain, wind, and snow impacted the programme timing. Other challenges were effectively managed through close collaboration with architects and engineers, who provided expert input on design elements to overcome emerging issues.
A robust working relationship with the client was maintained throughout the project's duration. Daily communication ensured consistent project oversight. The client's Quality Control Officer conducted weekly site visits, supplemented by monthly client inspections. A rigorous approval process was implemented, requiring client sign-off on all material samples, including facing bricks, kitchen worktops, and windows, prior to ordering and installation.
The project demonstrated a strong commitment to skills development, with apprentices integrated across all trade disciplines. This included opportunities for trainee joiners, plumbers, electricians, and bricklayers, contributing to the development of future construction professionals.
Environmental responsibility was prioritised throughout the construction process. Through partnership with CMI Waste, excess materials were recycled with comprehensive documentation maintaining transparency in waste management practices.
The project employed a workforce ranging from 20 to 40 personnel, depending on construction phases. Notably, the development required specialised equipment, including substantial mobile cranes weighing between 60 and 80 tonnes, utilised for roof erection operations.
A comprehensive health and safety protocol was implemented, featuring daily checks and weekly scaffold inspections. Any modifications to safety arrangements were meticulously documented, ensuring consistent compliance with safety standards.
Upon completion, the development will receive NHBC warranty coverage for its structural elements, providing assurance of construction quality and compliance with industry standards.
The Outcome
Whilst the project exceeded its initial timeline by 10 weeks, it successfully delivered modern, energy-efficient, new-build flats for West of Scotland Housing Association. The development's incorporation of sustainable technologies and comprehensive infrastructure positions it as a forward-thinking addition to the local housing stock.
This case study demonstrates Procast's capability to deliver complex residential developments while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and environmental responsibility.
