Medina House

Work programme and delivery

Elkins Construction was appointed by Southwark Council to undertake an extensive refurbishment project at Medina House. The works included concrete and brickwork repairs, decorations, asphalt repairs, roof repairs and cladding renewals.

The scope of the project also included the design and production of bespoke non-combustible window panels and the associated renewal of gas mains that previously protruded through the panels.

Project challenges

This was a challenging project due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which hit during the initial stages of the work. Elkins quickly established effective Covid practices and protocols, and adjustments to the programme had to be made to meet the requirements of the residents and Contract Administrator.

The team proactively managed the project schedule by looking ahead to plan resources and deliverables, creating more time to anticipate and resolve any issues that arose. Elements of the work were prioritised based on their urgency, with tasks and responsibilities on the critical path completed first. The team used the Project Risk Register to evaluate the risks faced and allow for expedient mitigation measures to be put in place.

Despite the additional challenges posed by Covid, Elkins provided additional resource for the project to accelerate the programme, at no extra cost to the client, and completed the works two months ahead of schedule.

Community engagement

The works were project managed to ensure detailed, honest, and transparent communications with the residents and other stakeholders. Elkins listened and incorporated feedback to enable the least disruptive and most efficient means to programme the project works. Where Covid protocols allowed, various methods of communication with residents were used, including letters, emails, meetings, coffee mornings, surgeries, newsletters and website updates.

Elkins’ Site Manager visited each property daily to monitor progress of works and ensure quality of workmanship. A check was carried out at the end of each working day to ensure the property was clean and secure.

When works were completed, the Site Manager conducted a snagging visit. The resident was involved with the snagging visit, giving them an opportunity to raise any issues and ensuring that they were satisfied with the works carried out.