Barnes Construction were appointed to undertake the refurbishment of the Barking Town Hall, the principle corporate office for the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham. The building accommodated 500 staff and the building remained operational during the works.

The project included major structural works, including the removal of most internal masonry walls, and the installation of a bespoke steel frame. Other works included the installation of triple glazed windows throughout as well as new heating and ventilation systems, electrical, toilets, kitchens, and finishes. The first phase saw works to the South Wing, with works to the North Wing completed in phase two.

During the second stage, we carried out a comprehensive review of the M&E strategy, as well as the steel frame. This involved client discussion, design team review, and subsequent evaluation of options. Our proposals for revising and rationalising in both areas saved £700,000, at no detriment to the programme.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
We ensured that the project delivered meaningful social value, with 60% of the project’s workforce living in the local area. Local schoolchildren were invited to decorate part of the hoarding around the site, which ultimately won the National Considerate Constructors Scheme Paint the Hoarding Competition. We also constructed an outdoor kitchen for a Dagenham-based charity.

Barnes Construction performed extremely well. From programme planning through day-to-day liaison and dealing with unforeseen issues, the Contracts Manager and the Site Manager in particular, worked pro-actively and in collaboration with the in-house client team (and externally appointed project managers) to ensure the works went smoothly. Working in an occupied building presented its own problem, but throughout the contract, Barnes Construction helped resolve issues and ensure that where possible, the disruption to services were kept to a minimum.
They maintained a clean and efficient site compound and kept the Council updated with on-site activities and any issues. Contract meetings were well organised. With works having completed in March 2018, the Council is satisfied with the end result, pleased with the quality of the workmanship and happy with the overall performance of Barnes Construction.
Andy Bere, Asset Manager & Client Lead Officer, London Borough of Barking & Dagenham.