Seddon were awarded this project via the Constructing West Midlands Framework being the successful bidder in a two-stage open book mini competition.
Project Overview
The St Vincent’s Development involved the design and build of eight new homes on a small but highly complex brownfield site, previously occupied by a parade of shops and flats. The development required extensive preconstruction services, including design development, planning approval, highway and utility agreements, cost planning and programme management to facilitate successful delivery. Seddon worked closely with the council, utility providers and statutory consultees to develop a fully compliant scheme that met planning, regulatory and funding requirements, while supporting Homes England funding objectives.
Challenges and Existing Conditions
Despite its modest size, the site presented several significant technical and logistical constraints. Multiple strategically important utility services crossed the development area and required diversion into pre-constructed Section 278 highway works to release the site for development.
A 150mm surface water sewer, located within the front gardens of neighbouring properties, required diversion under a self-construct Section 185 agreement. This was necessary to increase the easement zone and enable the construction of the new homes.
The site was located within a coal mining risk area and comprised deep fill ground conditions adjacent to existing residential properties. As a result, a deep augured piling solution was required, together with careful management of party wall matters and engagement with neighbouring residents.
Access to surrounding properties and offices was provided via an existing unadopted highway. The project therefore required the design and delivery of a new adoptable highway and drainage infrastructure under a Section 38 agreement. Securing approvals from the highway authority, Severn Trent Water and warranty providers added further complexity to the scheme.
Delivery Approach
Seddon assembled and managed the full design team and consultant team, leading the development of architectural and engineering designs through to RIBA Stage 4. Working closely with the council and project stakeholders, the team ensured the proposals complied with specification requirements, Building Regulations, including Parts L and O, and warranty provider standards related to mining risk and foundation design.
The pre-construction phase included commissioning all necessary surveys, reports and technical studies, managing planning pre-application discussions, submitting the planning application and responding to consultee queries to secure detailed planning consent. Seddon also coordinated submissions to secure draft Section 278, Section 38, Section 104 and Section 185 approvals, while undertaking risk analysis, developing realistic cost plans and establishing the agreed contract sum.
Throughout the process, Seddon maintained proactive communication with local businesses, residents and other stakeholders who could be affected by the works. The team also supported Sandwell Council's Employment and Skills Programme, providing employment, training and ongoing support opportunities for local people.
Having successfully met all planning, technical and contractual requirements, the project progressed to site and compelted ahead of programme.
Environmental
The properties were constructed during the recent building regulations changes and were designed to comply with the new requirements of Part L and Part O plus Future Homes Standards.
Enhanced insulation values and renewable technologies were installed to achieve the appropriate EPC Levels and reduce the risk of fuel poverty.
Social Value & Community Benefit
The project delivered a range of positive social value outcomes for the local community. Following a necessary drainage diversion, a neighbouring resident's garden was temporarily disturbed. Seddon worked closely with the resident and reinstated the garden to a standard that exceeded expectations, resulting in a letter of commendation praising the quality of the work.
The local school opposite St Vincent's benefited from a new external play area, delivered by Seddon's groundworks team, providing an enhanced outdoor space for pupils to enjoy.
Peter Hughes Sandwell Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Infrastructure“Making the most of the site has been incredibly important, and we can now see how major an impact this regeneration work will have for the community and for years to come.”