project principles and objectives
Secured by competitive tender Ryebridge was contracted to build a new car park and upgrade an existing one to include EV charging points, new islands, and wider access roads. In addition, the College required a new entrance to give two-way access to the site. The new entrance required Section 278 works.
The new car park was to be constructed in a green field area with material to be removed off-site. The new car park was to be constructed using sustainable drainage (SuDs). The existing car park was to be planned and resurfaced whilst to accommodate two-way access, the access roads needed to be widened. In total, the car parks were to create 398 spaces including 40 disabled and 50 EV charging spaces.
The crucial part of the work was to construct the new entrance and resurface the existing car park in the summer holidays. The critical path meant that if the new entrance and two-way access and car parks was not available by the 6th September the College could not open.
Ryebridge completed the first phase in time for the College opening for the new term and completed phase 2 handing over all 398 spaces by October half-term.
project works and key quantities
Bulk excavation 6,089m3
Dynamic compaction and stabilisation 13,640m2
2,338m Kerbing
Type 1 2,046m3
Tarmac laying 13,640m2
Cycle rack and shelter overall holding capacity of 128 number of cycles 4
20,160 man hours worked
No incidents
innovation and best practice
Given the tight timeframe and programme Ryebridge broke the project into two clear phases. Over the summer Ryebridge focused on the S278 works, new entrance, and remediating and improving the existing car park. This meant that by the time the College reopened the access and sufficient spaces were available.
Phase 2 was the completion of the new car park with sustainable drainage, EV charging points, lighting, and cycle racks. The electrical works were rephased into 2 due to the focus on being able to open the college. Ryebridge provided temporary lighting to ensure safe access to the car parks before it was usable.
The green field area backed onto the residential area where residents were generally unhappy with the creation of the car park and the impact of the works. Ryebridge created a forum with the residents and open communication. For the entire duration of the project, Ryebridge produced a weekly progress update and look-ahead for the residents.
moving forward
Ryebridge will continue to tender for similar projects across all sectors.
