Warehouse construction works at Flixborough, Scunthorpe

Project Overview

The Jotun Paints Extension Project involved the expansion and renovation of an existing office building. The project scope included significant civil engineering and groundwork to prepare the site for the new extension. This case study examines the key aspects of the civil engineering and groundwork phase, highlighting the specific tasks undertaken.

Key Project Objectives

• Site Preparation: Clear and prepare the site for the construction of the new building extension.
• Groundwork and Foundations: Establish robust foundations to support the extension, including ground beams, slabs, and pile extensions.
• External Works: Enhance the external areas with new paving, landscaping, and drainage systems.
• Services Integration: Accommodate and integrate new services, such as lighting and drainage, into the existing infrastructure.

Scope of Work

The civil engineering and groundwork phase encompassed a wide range of activities, as detailed in the provided data. These activities can be broadly categorized as follows:

1. Site Preparation and Mobilization:

   • Mobilization and site setup
   • Sawcutting existing concrete slabs
   • Breaking out and removing existing concrete
   • Excavation and disposal of soil
   • Working around and protecting existing services

2. Ground Beams and Foundations:

   • Excavation for internal and external ground beam thickenings
   • Forming and trimming battering faces
   • Reinforcement and concrete placement for ground beams
   • Finishing surfaces of concrete

3. Internal Ground Floor Slabs:

   • Preparation of hardcore surfaces and blinding
   • Installation of Visqueen and mesh reinforcement
   • Concrete placement and finishing for floor slabs
   • Sawcutting induced joints
   • Installation of column formers and curing of concrete surfaces

4. External Works and Landscaping:

   • Removal of existing tarmac and excavation for new paving and landscaping
   • Re-grading and preparation of levels
   • Installation of new paving, kerbing, and edging
   • Topsoil placement and landscaping
   • Cleaning and jetting of existing hard surfaces

5. External Sundries and Services:

   • Installation of external lighting ducting and sleeves
   • Removal of existing fencing and gates
   • Breaking out existing car parking and access road areas

Challenges and Solutions

The project faced several challenges typical of groundwork projects, including:

• Working around existing services: Careful planning and execution were required to avoid damaging existing services during excavation and groundwork.
• Ground conditions: The variability of ground conditions posed challenges in terms of excavation, foundation design, and drainage.
• Integration with existing structures: Ensuring the seamless integration of new works with existing structures required precise surveying and construction techniques.

These challenges were addressed through:

• Thorough site investigation: A comprehensive site investigation was conducted to assess ground conditions and identify existing services.
• Experienced personnel: The project employed skilled and experienced personnel to manage and execute the groundwork activities.
• Effective communication: Clear communication and coordination between the project team and subcontractors were essential to overcome challenges and ensure project success.

Conclusion

The civil engineering and groundwork phase of the Jotun Paints Extension Project was successfully completed, laying the foundation for the construction of the new extension. The project demonstrated effective planning and execution in addressing the challenges associated with groundwork projects. The new and improved external areas, including paving, landscaping, and lighting, have enhanced the functionality and aesthetics of the site.