Retail developments are often challenging as more often than not designers can only proceed with primary frames and basic secondary layouts until tenants arrive further down the line. Consequently, anything from shop fronts to M&E and back of house stairs is unknown, which causes late and frequent design changes.
Our work at Gloucester Quays proved to be no exception. As a result we created bespoke teams at the design stage to accommodate late changes and co-ordinate the different demands of the primary and secondary frames so that both could be serviced without detriment to the programme. We also managed the floor decking, on-site intumescent paint and end connection design. Our work not only consisted of constructing the new designer outlet, which required the erection of two large 400 tonne frames, we also installed the steelwork for the concrete car parks spiral ramp and rotunda roof. The roof is a complex circular structure, which was assembled at ground level and then lifted into its final position as one piece.
In addition to the above, we also refurbished two existing grade II listed buildings. All work was done by hand to ensure the retained façade remained untouched. This stunning new waterside, shopping and leisure development incorporates a new designer outlet, waterways museum, antiques centre, multi-screen cinema, historic docks and new bars and restaurants.