Ambitious improvements by Hamilton Building Contractors saves tower block from demolition
When Salix Homes secured funding for major improvements to its Fitzwarren Court building, the social housing provider appointed The Casey Group as main contractor for the work on the 23-storey block of 135 apartments.
The Casey Group then turned to Hamilton (Building Contractors) Ltd to be the external wall insulation (EWI) sub-contractor for this transformational project in the heart of Salford. The 1970s building had originally been earmarked for demolition as part of wider £120 million regeneration scheme in the area, but plans were halted in 2016 when funding became available to modernise the block.
The ambitious improvement project totalled £7.5million and involved new kitchens and bathrooms throughout, new doors and windows in all 135 apartments, a new apartment conversion on the ground floor, upgraded lobby and communal areas and a state-of-the-art digital property intercom system.
A sustainable ground source heating system was implemented and a new fire alarm and sprinkler system were installed.
Hamilton was brought in to complete the exterior wall insulation and rendering which had a metamorphic effect on the building’s overall appearance.
The distinctive blue and green was transformed in grey, green and orange tones as chosen by the residents, who have played an integral role in developing the proposals for the block.
Hamilton Managing Director, Robert Storton explains: “The Fitzwarren Court programme was a really rewarding project to be part of.
“We were able to play a small but significant part in helping The Casey Group and their client Salix Homes transform this building from an ageing tower block headed for demolition, to a modern, sustainable, sought-after place to live.“Residents stayed in their homes while the work was carried out, so it was important that everyone worked efficiently and considerately.
“The best method of access for our part of this project was mast climbers due to the speed of erection and the volume of external wall insulation and render to be installed at pace.
“The EWI system specified was a mineral wool insulation with an acrylic brick slip finish to the ground floor and a silicone render finish above.
“The existing substrate was slightly unusual, as it was of a ribbed concrete construction, meaning we had to use three different thicknesses of insulant in order to bring the surface of the building to the same level for the render to be applied.
“With 25 years’ experience, Hamilton was well placed to deal with these factors and carry out the high-rise installation to a flawless finish.
“One challenge faced during the project was the first lockdown brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The site was closed temporarily and The Casey Group acted swiftly and capably to put all relevant measures in place for the team to continue working safely with one another while residents remained in their homes.
“Thanks to Casey’s efficiency, the work was soon able to get back on track without too much impact on the project as a whole.
“The residents played an important decision-making role in developing the proposals for the block, and chose the new colours for the facade.
“The original, somewhat dated, colour scheme of beige, blue and greens has now been replaced with modern grey tones with areas of striking green and orange which bring the aesthetics of the building bang up to date.”
Alan Taylor, Director at The Casey Group, said: “The Fitzwarren Court scheme was a busy and multi-faceted project which has transformed the appearance, practicality and sustainability of the block for many years to come.
“It was a pleasure to work with Hamilton once again. The team’s consistent hard work and professionalism at all times meant we could rely on their communication, timescales and workmanship.
“We had no doubt that their contribution to the overall project meant the EWI and render would be finished to an exceptionally high standard. We’ll look forward to working with them again in the future.”
Sue Sutton, Chief Executive at Salix Homes, said: “For many years, residents at Fitzwarren Court have been in limbo about the future of their homes, so we’re delighted that our ambitious improvement and modernisation scheme is now complete.
“Our significant investment has given the building a new lease of life, complimenting the wider regeneration taking place in the Pendleton area, and ensuring this iconic building can stand proud on the Salford skyline for many years to come.”
The project was completed in August 2020 and in 2021 it won the Refurbishment – Insulation/Render Finish award at the INCA Awards. At the same awards, Hamilton also won Installer of the Year and received Highly Commended in the Refurbishment Insulation/Brick, Clay, Ceramic, Stone Finish category.
At this year’s 2022 INCA Awards, Hamilton were absolutely delighted when the Artesian House project we worked on with EQUANS, Wetherby Building Systems and Martin Arnold was Highly Commended in the Refurbishment EWI: Render / Traditional Finish: High Rise award.
