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Portfolio: University of Edinburgh | St Leonards Land

Client: University of Edinburgh

Project Value: £325k

Project Timescale: 8 weeks

Architect: Adrian Cavaye

PQS: Adrian Cavaye

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The works are proposed to replace existing timber sports flooring to the Main Games Hall and Strength and Conditioning Gym. Installation of new timber sports flooring and weights resistant impact flooring, damp treatment, decoration and window film replacement.

Works involved the removal and replacement of the existing timber sports flooring within the Main Games Hall and Strength and Conditioning Gym. The works included the installation of new timber sports flooring to the Main Games Hall, together with new weight-resistant impact PLAE flooring within the Strength and Conditioning Gym to provide a durable and suitable finish for the intended use of each space.

Additional works included the application of damp treatment in the main games hall, together with associated preparation and remedial works to the existing substrates prior to the installation of the new floor finishes. Decoration works were also undertaken within the Strength and Conditioning Gym, including preparation and redecoration of the walls and downstand beams to provide a clean and consistent finish throughout the space.
The works also included the replacement of existing window film, completing the refurbishment and improving the overall appearance and functionality of the facilities.

KEY CHALLENGES

A key challenge was carrying out the works within a live university environment. This required careful planning and coordination to ensure minimal disruption to staff and students, with strict control measures in place to manage noise, dust, and access.

To ensure the safety of all staff and students, daily communication between the project team was important to ensure the project ran smoothly and efficiently. Equally important was the careful scheduling of deliveries to avoid traffic or busy university hours. 

During the works, a full layer of concealed rubber sports flooring was discovered beneath the existing floor within the Main Games Hall. This unforeseen issue required immediate action, as the new Junckers flooring was being delivered from Denmark and the delivery could not be delayed without impacting the programme.

A quick and effective solution was therefore developed to minimise disruption. The rubber flooring was removed, following which the exposed subfloor was extensively ground and planed to achieve a smooth, level surface suitable for the new Junckers flooring.

Through proactive planning and fast decision-making, the works were completed in time for the scheduled flooring installation, avoiding any delay to the programme.

ADDED VALUE

We worked closely with the Design Team and the client to keep the project on programme, while also staying in regular contact with end users to minimise disruption and keep things running smoothly. Our experience of working in live environments really helped, as we were able to plan the works carefully, keep communication clear, and put the right measures in place. This meant the project was delivered without issues and with full consideration of the university’s day-to-day activities. Even when services had to be relocated near the end of the job, this was managed quickly to avoid any delays to completion.