The Challenge:
The project faced multiple significant challenges, beginning with the discovery of a badger sett within the proposed development entrance, which halted construction until the animals had safely relocated. Working on one of Cambridge’s main transport arteries during a period of increased roadworks across the city created substantial planning and coordination challenges, with initial resistance from authorities to permit another major scheme. Additionally, design issues emerged during construction, with tie-in points and levels proving incorrect and construction drawings not reflecting updated Cambridge HERC specifications.
Scope of Works
Our extensive delivery included:
Highway Improvements:
Carriageway widening and resurfacing on Cambridge Road
Installation of a new traffic signal network for junction control
Construction of a floating bus stop design to separate cyclists and buses
Installation of Cambridge’s trademark red cycleway asphalt
Raising of carriageway ironworks to new levels
Final surfacing and road markings
Pedestrian and Cycle Infrastructure:
Construction of new footpaths alongside the carriageway
Development of dedicated cycleways to support sustainable travel
Installation of a toucan crossing for safe pedestrian movement
Construction of a conservation cycleway within the development
Implementation of S38 footpaths throughout the development
Drainage and Services:
Installation of comprehensive drainage networks for surface water management
Construction of service ducts for traffic signals and street lighting
Installation of electric ducting for temporary builders’ supply
Coordination with existing services and infrastructure
Location:
23 months (May 2022 - April 2024)
Project Value:
£3,409,853.16
Duration:
23 months (May 2022 - April 2024)
Client:
BDW Eastern Counties
Contract:
Client Bespoke, Agreement for Large Package Contract
Darwin Green, Cambridge
Infrastructure package creating essential highways and pedestrian connections for Franklin Gardens development in Darwin Green.
Our Approach:
When faced with the ecological constraint of the badger sett, we worked patiently with wildlife specialists until confirmation was received that the badgers had naturally relocated to another sett outside the working area. For the traffic management challenges, our team engaged proactively with the local street works team and councillors, exploring all available options for phasing and sequencing to minimise disruption while maintaining progress.
We developed a collaborative approach to resolving the design issues, working directly with the client’s design team and Cambridgeshire County Council highways inspectors to ensure the junction construction not only conformed to but also reflected the new specifications. This close working relationship with both the client and local authority proved invaluable in navigating the technical challenges while maintaining quality standards.
Overcoming Challenges:
The original 18-week programme extended to 98 weeks due to various challenges, requiring exceptional patience and adaptability from our team. The badger sett discovery within the development entrance created an immediate ecological constraint that paused works in this area until natural relocation occurred, demonstrating our commitment to wildlife protection while managing programme implications.
The significant design issues with tie-in points and levels required collaborative problem-solving with both the client’s design team and local authority inspectors. Through careful survey and adjustment, we resolved these issues to ensure smooth connections with the existing infrastructure while meeting all technical requirements.
Perhaps the greatest challenge came in securing road space on one of Cambridge’s main transport arteries during a period of increased roadworks city-wide. Our management team worked tirelessly with the street works team and local councillors, developing innovative proposals for work phasing that minimised disruption. The eventual agreement allowed cycleways and footpaths to be constructed during daytime hours while restricting carriageway works to night-time operations, balancing progress with community impact.
Key Achievements:
Despite extending from 18 to 98 weeks, this project showcases our ability to navigate complex challenges while maintaining quality and stakeholder relationships. The completed infrastructure provides essential connections for the Franklin Gardens development while enhancing the wider transport network with improved junction control and sustainable travel options.
The floating bus stop design and Cambridge’s trademark red cycleways contribute to the city’s reputation as a cycling capital, promoting sustainable transport choices for residents and visitors alike. The toucan crossing enhances pedestrian safety, creating secure connections between the development and existing communities.
Throughout the extended programme, we maintained exemplary safety standards, with zero service strikes or incidents during construction – a testament to our careful planning and site management in a complex urban environment. The strong relationships developed with both the client and local authority have created a foundation for future collaboration on infrastructure projects in this growing city.