Gosport New Build Housing | Cost Consultancy Services by Keegans

Challenges and Solutions

The primary challenge was to control out-turn costs and maintain the project's commitment to Passivhaus standards. The local supply chain's initial lack of engagement due to perceived complexities threatened the project's viability.

 

To address this:

• Building Technology Simplification: Keegans worked closely with the project architect to simplify the building technology behind Passivhaus construction. Recognising that the architect's experience in Scotland involved more complex timber solutions, Keegans facilitated workshops to explore more familiar masonry-based designs, which local contractors were more likely to adopt.
• Engagement with Local Contractors: To further engage the local supply chain, Keegans organised two tender review workshops. These sessions aimed to ensure potential contractors understood the tender documents and the project’s requirements, increasing the number of tender returns. 
• Procurement Framework Adaptation: Although the chosen procurement framework was limiting, Keegans confirmed with the client that awards could be made with fewer tender returns as long as value for money was demonstrated, allowing us to proceed with the most competitive bid

 

Unique Aspects and Outcomes

The Gosport New Build project stands out as the first Passivhaus initiative undertaken by Gosport Borough Council.

 

The energy efficiency of the homes on each of the sites has been achieved through their form factor and orientation, maintaining airtightness, optimised solar gains, continuous thermal envelope, high performance windows and doors, renewables (PVs), minimised thermal bridging, and the use of compact units which offer energy-efficient heating / tempered air, hot water and ventilation

 

Presently, the contract has been awarded, the initial design team meeting has been held to review contractor design portion items and works are now on site. The tender sum aligns closely with our pre-tender estimate, showcasing the project’s feasibility within the current construction market.

 

Our collaborative efforts have not only positioned the client to successfully deliver their first Passivhaus project but also encouraged them to explore similar opportunities across other council-owned sites. The contractor is enthusiastic about the challenges and opportunities that this high-performance project presents and the architect is pleased to have contributed to a more traditional yet effective Passivhaus fabric solution.

 

 

Client Feedback

Gosport Council has expressed excitement about pioneering their first Passivhaus project and recognised the importance of our cost consultancy team’s leadership in navigating the complexities of this innovative construction approach. Our market-tested insights into Passivhaus construction have laid a foundation for future projects and reinforced our commitment to sustainable public-sector housing solutions.

Conclusion

The Gosport New Build project exemplifies how effective cost consultancy can bridge the gap between ambitious performance standards and practical delivery within local authority frameworks. Through strategic engagement, simplification of construction methods and proactive risk management, we successfully facilitated a ground-breaking initiative that promises long-term benefits for Gosport Council and the community.