The works consisted of a cyclical pre-paint repair and external painting project to historic Grade II listed buildings. Eagley Mills was a former complex of cotton mills in Bolton which have since been converted to residential use, exceeding over 150 units.
The works were led by our Operations Manager, Steve McArdle, who managed a team of six directly employed painters, including a female apprentice, and multiple subcontractors. Steve was also supported by a Black Hat Supervisor, who oversaw the 12-week project from start to finish.
Overview of Works
Our experienced team used a diverse range of equipment to support their work:
• 135ft elevated mobile elevating work platform
• Crash deck scaffolding
• Suspended cradle system
Working in conjunction with our preferred supply chain partners, PPG Architectural coatings (Johnstone’s paints). A site-specific specification was jointly developed to ensure a 5-year maintenance programme is achieved.
Careful Planning and Coordination
Seddon conveyed relevant information to residents through letters, emails, and messages on the occupants’ noticeboard about any changes and updates. Engaging each resident by informing them of the progress and discussing director’s meetings shows trust between Seddon and the occupants. Due to this they were very accommodating during the project and this ensured the team’s day-to-day operations weren’t affected. The subcontractors who were involved in this project benefited from daily briefs, providing clarity within the team, and ensuring a successful delivery. The team organised daily inspections regimes with the equipment they were working with, to maintain excellent health and safety standards in line with regulations.
Challenges
The main challenge of this project was caused by the previous contractor who conducted faulty works from five years ago, resulting in extensive defective timber. To resolve this, our team conducted a Condition Survey to ensure the preservation of the building is maintained. During this predicament, Seddon kept the client informed of the undergoing processes, and any changes to the cost.
Subcontractors
To supplement our direct workforce, we use specialist subcontractors for various elements of work. This included:
• Giraffe Access- Suspended Cradle Systems
• Higher Safe Solutions- MEWP
• ACE Scaffolding- Crash Deck Scaffold
• McNally Joinery- Specialist Door and Window Installations
Our 1500 strong supply chain was managed by Supply Chain Manager, Steve McCluskey and his team who have extensive experience across the region.
Client Engagement
Having weekly progress meetings with the client, PAD Property Management, to provide open and direct communication and to ensure the project milestones were reached as well as correctly delivering to the programme.
Environmental Impact
Due to the location of the mills, being near a canal with a nest of Canadian geese, the team was required to take extra caution:
• Empty paint tins were collected and sent back to the local depot to be recycled
• All waste was removed and disposed of safely at our local recycling plant
We were able to monitor traveling distances of everyone on site due to our Signing in and out sheets which meant we could calculate the CO2 produced and aim to offset this throughout the project life cycle.
Outcomes and Benefits
Our consistent communication amongst the residents has provided them with satisfaction throughout the duration and completion of the project. Despite the faulty works caused by the previous contractor, there were no programme delays, and the project finished ahead of schedule, due to our hardworking and committed team. The Grade II listed buildings have received a muchneeded face-lift, giving these former cotton mills a much more welcoming appearance for current and future residents.