The Challenge:
The project presented several significant engineering challenges, particularly when the existing culvert owned by the Local Authority was discovered to be collapsed and unsuitable for connection to the new drainage system. Additionally, the UKPN Independent Connection Provider (ICP) design was found to be incompatible with the available underground apparatus, requiring substantial redesign during construction. These unforeseen issues, combined with long lead times for specialist materials during a period of supply chain disruption, created potential programme risks that needed careful management.
Scope of Works
When faced with the collapsed culvert and incompatible electrical connection designs, we adopted a collaborative problem-solving approach, working closely with all stakeholders to develop viable solutions. For the culvert issue, we engaged with the Local Authority to redesign the connection method while ensuring proper drainage functionality. Similarly, for the UKPN connection challenges, we worked with the utility provider to revise the design based on the actual underground conditions encountered.
Recognising the potential impact of material supply challenges, our project management team took a proactive approach to procurement, identifying alternative suppliers and materials where appropriate to maintain programme progress. This forward-thinking strategy enabled us to navigate the supply chain disruptions that were affecting the wider construction industry at the time.
Location:
8 months (May 2024 - December 2024)
Project Value:
£1,393,407.00
Duration:
8 months (May 2024 - December 2024)
Client:
Glencar Construction
Contract:
Client Bespoke, JCT Sub C 2016
Jenkins Lane, Beckton
Highway improvement scheme delivering new roundabout and entrances for industrial redevelopment at Jenkins Lane, Beckton.
Our Approach:
Our comprehensive delivery included:
Roundabout Construction:
Construction of a new roundabout with decorative granite setts
Road widening and formation excavation to accommodate the new layout
Installation of new kerbing throughout the scheme
Creation of two new traffic islands for improved traffic management
Drainage Systems:
Culvert works to manage water flow beneath the highway
Installation of comprehensive drainage networks
Integration with existing systems following redesign
Highways Infrastructure:
Path formation for pedestrian access
Installation of ducting for services and communications
Comprehensive street lighting improvements
Final surfacing of all carriageways
Application of white lining to complete the road layout
Landscaping:
Implementation of soft landscaping around the new infrastructure
Reinstatement of affected areas to enhance the visual appearance
Overcoming Challenges:
The discovery of the collapsed Local Authority culvert presented a significant engineering challenge that required immediate resolution to maintain drainage functionality. Our team quickly assessed the situation and developed a redesigned connection method that accommodated the actual conditions while ensuring proper water flow. Through collaborative engagement with the Local Authority, we secured approval for the revised approach without causing substantial programme delays.
Similarly, when the UKPN ICP design was found to be incompatible with the available underground apparatus, our team worked closely with the utility provider to develop a practical solution based on the existing infrastructure. This collaborative approach to problem-solving enabled us to resolve the issue without significant impact on the overall project timeline.
The industry-wide supply chain challenges and long lead times for specialist materials threatened to disrupt the programme. Our project management team responded by identifying critical materials early, securing alternative suppliers where possible, and adjusting work sequences to accommodate delivery schedules. This proactive approach to procurement enabled us to maintain progress despite the challenging supply environment.
Key Achievements:
Despite the unforeseen challenges with existing infrastructure and supply chain disruptions, we successfully delivered this complex highway scheme on time and to the client’s exacting deadline. The completed roundabout and access arrangements now provide safe, efficient entry to the redeveloped industrial and warehouse facilities while improving traffic flow on the surrounding road network.
Our ability to quickly resolve the culvert and electrical connection issues demonstrates our technical expertise and collaborative approach to problem-solving in challenging situations. The high-quality finish of the roundabout, with its distinctive granite setts, creates an attractive entrance feature that enhances the overall development while fulfilling its practical traffic management function.
Through proactive management and collaborative stakeholder engagement, we navigated the complex challenges of this project to deliver infrastructure that meets both the client’s requirements and Local Authority standards, supporting the successful redevelopment of this former leisure park into valuable industrial space.