Wellington Close external tower refurbishment

Wellington Close was built in 1964 in Walton upon Thames comprising of 132no. 2 bed apartments spread over 3 tower blocks with adjoining 2 storey spur blocks, set in spacious grounds.

 

For several years, consecutive client Boards, representing leaseholders' interests, had strived to bring about a refurbishment project to replace the roofs and external curtain wall facades with a modern system that meets current Building Regulations requirements in thermal efficiency whilst enhancing its overall appearance and increase the value of leaseholder's assets.

 

 

Keegans were appointed on this scheme as Lead Consultants providing multi-disciplinary services including design, writing the specification and tender process and once onsite Clerk of Works role and Contact Administration.

 

From a financial perspective, the Wellington Close re-cladding scheme, is ground breaking in that Keegans are not aware of any similarly sized projects for private, long-leasehold apartments.

 

Under Landlord & Tenant Legislation there was a requirement to undertake a robust consultation process with all 132 leaseholders at various stages of the tendering process; this was successfully completed. One of the key issues encountered was determining whether the work is classified as a repair or improvement. This issue was overcome by seeking a pre-determination of the works at the First-Tier Tribunal (Property Chamber); this tribunal confirmed that the consultation process had been administered correctly; that the works are allowed under the terms of the leases (repair or improvement) and that the works were necessary.