Construction Project Overview
The Gradel Quadrangles project involves the construction of a prestigious 3-storey student accommodation block and basement, along with a 7-storey tower and school extension. This traditional Oxford quadrangle style structure is located on a corner site adjacent to a grade 2 listed college building and residential properties. Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd has been awarded a Considerate Constructors Scheme Gold National Site Award for the incredible standards upheld during the project in 2023. The project team have stood out for their commitment to considerate practices and their dedication in achieving exceptional standards to support the environment, workforce and community.
Project Highlights
The project team have demonstrated exceptional performance in all areas. Numerous validated best practices, highlight their unwavering dedication and professionalism in tackling this complex project. With the external scaffolding coming down, the intricate stonework on the curved façades is revealed – a testament to the team’s meticulous efforts. Alongside the project’s busy schedule, the team remains committed to community engagement, exemplified by their collaboration with a Kidlington school to build a new outdoor play area.
Innovations and Best Practices
The project team demonstrated its unwavering commitment to best practice to improve on-site performance. The team utilised a flexible roof ladder to ensure optimal safety and efficiency. The ladder offers a quick setup, comfort, and ease of transport. MEP fitters also used the rigid strutslayr unistrut cutter to ensure fast, clean and safe construction cutting. The cutter eliminates sparks, is mobile, quiet, and reduces HAVS exposure.
Respecting the Community
The team’s focus on community support remains strong. Their collaboration with a Kidlington school to create an outdoor play area, including recycling materials like astroturf, showcases this commitment. Furthermore, they have promoted careers in construction by hosting a visit from architectural students.
Caring for the Environment
The project has displayed environmental performance data in a user-friendly format on site hoardings for public awareness. Partnering with Community Wood Recycling has been instrumental in upcycling materials, reducing the carbon footprint, and providing opportunities for disadvantaged individuals. The team prioritises reusing surplus materials as the project nears completion.
Valuing the Workforce
The team has also conducted multiple mental health training sessions to support workforce wellbeing. After a minor injury investigation, a ‘boot camp’ was organised to reinforce the importance of midsole protection in work footwear. The project maintains a robust recognition programme, offering monthly awards to acknowledge the workforce’s contributions.
Congratulations to the team for these outstanding performance levels.