Neilcott was appointed to undertake phase-3 of the nine-phase Royal Grammar School (RGS) masterplan. The new facilities in the heart of the listed school were co-ordinated around a live school environment and include conversion of old design & technology labs into state-of-the-art chemistry labs, followed by construction of a 725m2 fourth-floor extension over the existing three-storey ‘spine’ block between two central courtyards.

Neilcott undertook the third (most recent) phase of development, including: a 725m2 spine extension to the main building at height; relocation of construction-affected teaching accommodation; infill of existing courtyard spaces; and relocation of the library into the “heart” of the school; for completion prior to the new academic year

A key element of the project was the planned, phased decant and recant of working areas, swiftly completing moves as refurbishment works progressed through different areas.

During construction of the spine to accommodate the piling works, temporary designated access routes were formed to both courtyards through the existing school building at ground floor level to facilitate the specialist piling rig required to reach the designed depths. These routes also facilitated access for site personnel, excavated materials off site and concrete for the foundations to minimise interface with the live school.

We installed the structural steel roof structure and supporting columns, whilst leaving the pitched roof structure over the spine in-situ, until the it could be safely demolished in a weathertight environment.

We managed phasing and programming of works, ceasing all construction during the 2-week public exam period, ensuring no disruption or distraction to pupils, additionally scheduling works (including steel frame/composite floor works) from 4pm-8pm on many evenings to maintain school operations without disruption. During pre-construction period we identified interface issues e.g. service routing and new to old connections and coordinated effective value engineering work to ensure effective cost control and maintain viability for this complex project.

“There have been two big challenges on this project – the technical challenge of building it and keeping the school operating …Neilcott dealt extremely well with the health, safety and safeguarding implications of this, as well as minimising disruption for our teachers.”                                                                                                                                      Bob Ukiah – Chief Operating Officer