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Project Overview

Built in 1964, Wellington Close in Walton-on-Thames comprises 132 two-bedroom apartments spread across three tower blocks with adjoining two-story spur blocks, all set in spacious grounds. For years, consecutive client boards, representing leaseholders' interests, sought a refurbishment project that would modernise the buildings' exterior while meeting current Building Regulations for thermal efficiency.

 

 

Keegans’ Role as Lead Consultant

Keegans was appointed as Lead Consultants, providing a range of multi-disciplinary services, including:

 

  • Design and Specification Writing: Creating a detailed project blueprint that met all regulatory requirements.
  • Tender Process Management: Overseeing the entire tender process to ensure a fair and transparent selection of contractors.
  • Onsite Clerk of Works and Contract Administration: Ensuring the project was executed to the highest standards.

 

Financial and Legal Considerations

The Wellington Close re-cladding scheme is groundbreaking, particularly from a financial perspective, as Keegans is unaware of any similarly sized projects for private, long-leasehold apartments. Under Landlord & Tenant Legislation, a robust consultation process was required with all 132 leaseholders. This was successfully completed, with one key issue being whether the work was classified as a repair or an improvement.

 

This challenge was resolved by seeking a pre-determination from the First-Tier Tribunal (Property Chamber), which confirmed that the consultation process was correctly administered, the works were permissible under the leases, and the improvements were necessary.

 

 

Communication and Resident Engagement

Throughout the planning and tendering processes, Keegans kept leaseholders informed of anticipated timelines and budgeted costs, ensuring residents had sufficient time to plan for the upcoming expenses.

 

 

Project Completion and Resident Feedback

All blocks are complete with all new double-glazed windows, cladding, new roofs and internal flat works. The mast climbers are dismantled. Block C has had the mast climbers erected and all the windows have been installed externally to all elevations. 

 

Many residents have reported significant improvements in energy efficiency, with some no longer needing to use central heating. Additionally, issues related to poor thermal efficiency, such as mould growth, have been resolved, leading to overwhelmingly positive feedback from residents.

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