Wheatsheaf Walk
Completed
2021
Value
Circa £170k
Project
Demolition & Reconstruction
Client
West Lancashire Borough Council
Wheatsheaf Walk is a shopping centre and one of four key pedestrianised streets in Ormskirk Town Centre leading to Wheatsheaf Walk car park.
Our work improved the aesthetics and facilities of Wheatsheaf Walk, with the inclusion of lighting and seating, enhancing the visuals and character of the area.
The works comprised public realm improvements at the Burscough Street end of Wheatsheaf Walk, including the careful demolition and removal of the existing steel-framed pagoda structure.
The project also involved the full reconstruction of the footway, incorporating new street lighting, street furniture, and the planting of a mature tree to enhance the public realm.
Dust was kept to a minimum using suppression/extraction on mechanical tools, scaffolding was encapsulated in sheeting and the pagoda removal was carried out by hand.
Noisy works were planned to avoid causing disruption to neighbouring properties. Waste was appropriately segregated for later disposal to our licensed facility. The work area and compound enclosed with anti-climb fencing/solid hoarding.
Banksman trained staff were on site for all plant/vehicle movements within the public car park and works area in Wheatsheaf Walk. Deliveries were coordinated to avoid busy periods.
Works were undertaken in such a way as to avoid causing disruption to neighbouring properties and businesses.
Due to the location being a busy pedestrian area the works were planned and carried out in sections to avoid pedestrian access issues and always maintain access to local businesses.
There was a weight limit on the road out of the one-way system, we used small plant and equipment where possible. Due to the weight restriction on the bridge we had to use small 8 yard skips which we endeavoured to fill and have removed on the same day.
There were unforeseen services encountered in the tree pit area, we advised the engineer of this, and further investigation of the trench was performed and we therefore advised a re-design to avoid disruption to any services.
Several members of the public approached us to request waste timber and paving materials to recycle at their home. We liaised with several businesses to address any impact the works would cause them in terms of access.
“This was a public realm improvement project in the centre of a busy market town. One of the requirements of the appointment was that the public needed access through this busy thoroughfare and access to the shops had to remain open during normal working hours. Despite the “tight” nature of the site both requirements were fully satisfied. In addition, the operatives on site were often quizzed by local residents and shoppers as to the nature of the work. The operatives were polite, courteous and positive at all times, and this reflected well up on the council as the project sponsor. And it is also reassuring when the project is delivered on budget!”
Aidan Manley, Project Lead
West Lancashire Borough Council
