Articles

Chelsea Academy

Chelsea Academy
Presented to: Dominic Hattee
Contractor: Wates Construction
Client: The Chelsea Academy Trust

This project required the construction of a new school in a mixed residential and commercial area, with the new building occupying the entire site area and site offices located in nearby buildings.

Excellent neighbour communications were established from the start of this project, leading to a productive ongoing dialogue. The site team not only attended forums and meetings regularly but helped to advertise their existence to encourage attendance. Issues and concerns were dealt with promptly, while a community day was held and assistance also given in creating shelving for a youth project. A sample bay was established to allow public viewing of progress, and a total of 160 students visited the site for a presentation on the project.

Despite the off-site location, operative facilities were of a high standard and included a good food offer in the canteen. In the hot weather a cool down zone was provided along with suitable sun-screen creams. In return, smart appearance and appropriate behaviour was expected.

Commenting on the project, Rob Hannan, Secondary Development Officer for the London Diocesan Board for Schools, said:

"The neighbourhood is very sensitive to developments but Wates’s management of communications with residents and their daily management of work on site were exemplary."