Thank you to everyone that attended our resident meeting on 27th June 2024.
Please see below for a summary of the minutes captured at the meeting - to view a full copy of the meeting minutes, please click here.
Last month's key steps:
- We have completed removing all the current external cladding system and installed new fire-rated system to match the existing look of the block
- Completed the Y boards and insulation works, including the EPDM water and fireproofing works
Next month's key steps:
- We are commencing with installations of the new claddings in all elevations, including the abseiling on the northeast elevation
- We are currently in the process of fire remediation works on all external gas flues, kitchen and bathroom extracts fans and flexy ducts
- Continuing with the installation of all Cavity and Fire Barriers as well as the Duo Slab Insulation behind the new cladding
Questions:
Q: When will the external works finish?
A: We continue with the facade work, thank you for all of you who have allowed access to isolate your boilers so we can work safely around the flues, we cannot emphasise enough how important this is. If we can't shut your boiler off so our operatives can work round your flue safely then we cannot progress, so thank you for your understanding. As stated, we will need further shutdowns so we will be in touch over the course of the coming weeks, once more thank you for making this a relatively painless experience.
We expect to see more noticeable change over the next month, a long time coming we appreciate but it should start looking like the building you knew in no time at all.
Q: Are you still planning to finish this project by the end of July?
A: Hopefully, we are hoping to be finished by the end of July 2024. A special thanks to the entire team and Site Manager, John Loftus for their dedication and efforts in pushing the completion date to July 2024.
Q: I have seen a couple of workmen smoking around the site.
A: There is a designated smoking area marked on site for the convenience and safety of everyone.
Q: When are you going to start work on the balcony?
A: Balcony works will commence towards the end of the project timeline.
Q: When you are mentioning fire remediation works, what do you actually mean?
A: Fire remediation works involve external enhancements, fireproofing measures, and the replacement of extract ducting to ensure the safety and security of our residents.
Thank you to everyone that attended our resident meeting on 23rd May 2024.
Please see below for a summary of the minutes captured at the meeting - to view a full copy of the meeting minutes, please click here.
Project summary:
- We completed the fire and waterproofing works as well as the fire barriers and insulation works to 100% on all levels and elevations
- We have completed 100% of the roof and balcony cappings
- 100% installation of the bracketry on the C channels to support the new cladding
- We have commenced with the abseiling works from the roof level on the northeast elevation
- We have completed the whole building in a new fire-retardant breather membrane which keeps the building 100% watertight behind the new cladding which will be starting in the next couple of weeks
Our aim is to keep your building fully fire rated, nice and cool in the summer with warmth in the winter as well as watertight at all times.
Next month's key steps:
- Commence with installations of the new cladding on all elevations including the abseiling works to the northeast elevation
- Fire remediation works on all external gas flues, kitchen and bathroom extract fans and flexy ducts will be undertaken
- Continuation of the installation of all cavity and fire barriers as well as the Duo Slab insulation behind the new cladding
- We will also be commencing with the installation of the rain screen cladding
Questions:
Q: When will the external works finish?
A: Stage 4 design has been issued, we await design sign off for the abseiling works on the north east elevation which is imminent. We are currently working hard alongside the Structural Engineer, Fire Engineer and Architect to ensure we get things right for you ensuring we leave you with a safe, warm and secure home. Please bear with us.
Q: How long will the works take?
A: At this stage, it is far too early to say the exact duration time of projects such as this one, but our target date for completion is the end of July 2024 - We will let you know if this changes. We are currently finding some unforeseen items that we would never have known about prior to opening up the building. We will try to be as clear as we can once we know the full picture.
Q: Are the timbers on the balconies going to be replaced completely?
A: Yes! This will be done at the end once all other works such as the cladding, gas flues and brick works have been completed.
Q: When will the internal part of the block be redecorated?
A: This is going to be done in house by Southern Housing.
Q: Has the broken glass in the front door been reported to Southern Housing?
A: Yes, new glass will be fitted tomorrow (24th May) morning.
Q: Are you on track to finish the work in July?
A: That is what we're aiming for. However, we are still waiting to procure the contractors who are doing the work so as to acquire the new product (Injectaclad) that is designed for cavity barriers around every window and door in the brickworks section, and which must be reviewed by our Fire Engineers to ensure that it is sufficient for the block. Once we get the go ahead, we will get the programme going by June and hopefully ending in July.
Q: Is it possible to put little spikes on the balconies to prevent pigeons escaping through?
A: We currently have brick guards to keep pigeons away and we will also try to put monoflex in front of it to help keep them away. These works will be carried out on 24th May.
During our routine patrol, we observed some rubbish on your balconies and cigarette butts scattered on the floor. These items pose serious hazards and increase the risk of fire.
We kindly urge you to take responsibility for your surroundings and maintain cleanliness for the safety of yourself and others.
Your cooperation in keeping your balcony clean and free of potential fire hazards is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Welcome to your resident's update from Equans. This is a great way for us to keep you up to date with all the work that has been going on so far and what we expect to achieve going forward.
If you have any queries about the works being undertaken by Equans, please direct your query to your appointed Resident Liaison Officer, Sanusi Conteh by calling 07855 967 608.
As you will be aware, Equans has been appointed by Southern Housing to replace cladding and associated fire remediation works at Whytecliffe Road.
Our progress so far:
- We have completed the water and fireproofing works to 100% of the building including the insulation and roofing works
- We have completed 100% of the grey capping on the roof and balcony terrace levels
Next month's key steps:
- Carry out abseiling works at roof level and north east elevation
- Fire protection works to all cavity barriers around all windows, doors and all brickwork areas including all gas boiler flues, kitchen and bathroom extract fan works
- Finally, we will commence the installation of the cladding and rainscreen works
This update has been extracted from the April Resident Newsletter which can be viewed in full by clicking here.
Thank you to everyone that attended our resident meeting on 25th April 2024.
Please see below for a summary of the minutes captured at the meeting - to view a full copy of the meeting minutes, please click here.
Project summary:
- We completed the fire and waterproofing works as well as the fire barriers and insulation works to 100% on all levels and elevations
- We have completed 100% of the roof and balcony cappings
- 100% installation of the bracketry on the C channels to support the new cladding
- We will shortly be commencing with the abseiling works from the roof level on the north east elevation
- We have completed the whole building in a new breather membrane 100% prior to new cladding and insulation, starting next month
- Finally, we will then commence with the installation of the rain screen cladding
Last month's key steps:
- The site team achieved a maximum score of 45/45 from the Considerate Constructors Scheme
- We completed the Y boards and insulation works, including the EPDM water and fireproofing works
- We have completed the removal of the current external cladding system and installed a new fire-rated system to match the existing look of the block
Next month's key steps:
- Continue with the installation of bracketry on the C channels to support the helping hand brackets
- We are currently in the process of covering the whole building in a new breather membrane prior to new cladding and insulation works
- Continue with the installation of cavity barriers as well as the duo slab insulation behind the new cladding
- Finally, we will commence with the installation of the rain screen
Questions:
Q: When will the external works finish?
A: Stage 4 design has been issued, we await design sign off for the abseiling works on the north east elevation which is imminent. We are currently working hard alongside the Structural Engineer, Fire Engineer and Architect to ensure we get things right for you ensuring we leave you with a safe, warm and secure home. Please bear with us.
Q: How long will the works take?
A: At this stage, it is far too early to say the exact duration time of projects such as this one, but our target date for completion is the end of July 2024 - We will let you know if this changes. We are currently finding some unforeseen items that we would never have known about prior to opening up the building. We will try to be as clear as we can once we know the full picture.
Q: Why has the project experienced delays despite initially being planned for only 12 months?
A: The project has encountered significant delays primarily due to the need to specify various aspects of the building. Once the block was stripped, the time-consuming process has led to setbacks in ensuring building safety.
Q: When is the project going to be finished?
A: We are aiming to complete the project by May/June 2024.
Q: I had a damp mark on my ceiling. What should I do?
A: Southern Housing is investigating the cause of the damp mark on your ceiling. It is important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage and potential health hazards associated with dampness. Be sure to follow up with Southern Housing to understand the findings of their investigation and the steps that need to be taken to resolve the issue.
Q: I have noticed that there is a gap in the net, and pigeons are entering through it.
A: We have replaced the net with mono flex and thoroughly secured it. However, we suspect that the pigeons are gaining access through the open hoist area - it has now been covered.
Southern Housing have issued a presentation regarding safety concerns they have at Whytecliffe Road.
Please read the following information carefully, a full copy of the presentation can be viewed by clicking here.
Safety is our top priority in our community, and we kindly ask for your cooperation in maintaining a safe environment for all. Please be mindful of the following safety concerns and guidelines:
Rubbish placed on balconies
Rubbish disposal: Please dispose of your rubbish in the designated areas to prevent littering and maintain a clean environment. Proper waste disposal is essential for the hygiene and safety of our community.
Cigarette butts
Do not throw cigarette butts onto the scaffolds or any other inappropriate locations. Properly dispose of cigarette butts in designated ashtrays or bins to prevent fire hazards and maintain cleanliness.
Barbecue
For safety reasons, barbecues are banned and are not allowed on the balconies or roof terraces. These guidelines are in place to prevent fire incidents and ensure the wellbeing of all residents.
Welcome to your resident's update from Equans. This is a great way for us to keep you up to date with all the work that has been going on so far and what we expect to achieve going forward.
If you have any queries about the works being undertaken by Equans, please direct your query to your appointed Resident Liaison Officer, Sanusi Conteh by calling 07855 967 608.
As you will be aware, Equans has been appointed by Southern Housing to replace cladding and associated fire remediation works at Whytecliffe Road.
Our progress so far:
- We have completed the EPDM and 80% of the breather membrane and C channels on all levels and all elevations
- We have also completed 25% of the grey capping on the roof and balconies terrace levels
Next month's key steps:
- Installation of bracketry on the C channels to support the 'Helping Hands Brackets'
- Installation of cavity barriers as well as the duo slab behind the new cladding
- Finally we will commence the installation of the rain screen
Reminders/notifications
- Residents are advised to desist from throwing rubbish in the under croft for health and safety reasons
- We are appealing to you to kindly desist from organising BBQs, throwing cigarette butts, bottles and sharps onto the scaffolding
- We thank you for the continued support and cooperation in giving access to our contractors while the works are ongoing
This update has been extracted from the March Resident Newsletter which can be viewed in full by clicking here.
Welcome to your resident's update from Equans. This is a great way for us to keep you up to date with all the work that has been going on so far and what we expect to achieve going forward.
If you have any queries about the works being undertaken by Equans, please direct your query to your appointed Resident Liaison Officer, Sanusi Conteh by calling 07855 967 608.
As you will be aware, Equans has been appointed by Southern Housing to replace cladding and associated fire remediation works at Whytecliffe Road.
Our progress so far:
- Completion of structural investigations to the facades of the building
- Ongoing investigations to the facade front and rear elevations to ascertain the integrity of the new cladding
- Also checking the integrity of cavity barriers around the windows and doors in all brickwork areas
- We have completed the Y board and insulation works as well as the EPDM water and fire-proofing works
- We are currently in the process of covering the whole building in a new breather membrane prior to new cladding and insulation works
- We have also removed all the current external wall cladding system and installed a new fire rated system to match the existing look of the block
Next month's key steps:
- We will commence the installation of new breather membrane, bracketry and cladding for the fire remediation works on all elevations
- We will also commence the abseiling works on the N/E elevation as well as all new cladding fire remediation works on all other elevations
This update has been extracted from the Resident Meeting Slides provided at the meeting held on 22nd February, please click here to view the slides in full. Information has also been taken from the February Resident Newsletter which can be viewed in full by clicking here.
The team at Whytecliffe Road South have achieved an impressive top score of 45/45 from their recent audit visit by the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS).
When the CCS monitor visited the scheme on 20th February to carry out their audit of the site, they commented things like "Credit is to be given to John and the site team for the commendable efforts made to promote and deliver the scheme's core values. Excellent working relationships have been established with residents and site management creating and supporting an array of initiatives for the residents' community. Communications are supported by a dedicated quiet room for residents and information micro screens."
The CCS is an independent organisation founded to raise standards in the construction industry to ensure all construction sites present an image of competent management, efficiency, awareness of environmental issues and above all neighbourliness. Monitors from the scheme regularly audit our sites to ensure we are adhering to the scheme’s Code of Considerate Practice which is designed to encourage best practice beyond statutory requirement.
Each audit is split into three categories; respect for the community, protecting the environment and valuing the workforce each with a potential score out of 15 with a total combined max score of 45 available. To score above 13 in any category warrants an excellent level of achievement for that category.
Congratulations to Site Manager John and the rest of the site team, who work so hard every day to maintain such high standards
If you'd like to see a copy of the full CCS report, please click here.
Welcome to your resident's update from Equans. This is a great way for us to keep you up to date with all the work that has been going on so far and what we expect to achieve going forward.
If you have any queries about the works being undertaken by Equans, please direct your query to your appointed Resident Liaison Officer, Sanusi Conteh by calling 07855 967 608.
As you will be aware, Equans has been appointed by Southern Housing to replace cladding and associated fire remediation works at Whytecliffe Road.
Our progress so far:
- Completion of structural investigations to the facades of the building
- Ongoing investigations to the facade front and rear elevations to ascertain the integrity of the new cladding
- Also checking the integrity of cavity barriers around the windows and doors
Next month's key steps:
- We will be commencing the installation of new insulation, bracketry and cladding for the fire remediation works on all elevations
- We will also commence the new interface sealing membrane cladding fire remediation works on all other elevations
Resident respite:
As you may or may not be aware, a resident respite unit is available at our site office located at 53 Whytecliffe Road South. This area is where residents can escape any disruption and noise due to the works being undertaken.
The respite consists of Wi-Fi, a television, a fridge along with tea and coffee making facilities.
Please don't hesitate to contact RLO, Sanusi for further information regarding using the respite.
This update has been extracted from the Resident Meeting Slides provided at the meeting held on 25th January, please click here to view the slides in full.
Resident Meeting Updates
Resident Meeting Update_Jan25.pdf (1.35 MB) (pdf)
