The ‘Forging Ahead’ scheme consists of two area, the new build Visitor Centre which consists of semi- basement and three bay steel portals and Historic/Industrial Town which was a recreation of a 1920’s street within the Black Country consisting of 18no. Buildings. Both sites are within high risk mining area and having deep levels of made ground. The result of which were innovate foundation solution which included vibro- improvement method and cantilever ground beams to overarch exclusion zones. We were brought onto the scheme at RIBA stage 4 and as such assessed the design to that point.

The reviewed the drainage proposal confirmed the used of an existing sewer connection which would reduce the extent of runs down the site and logistically assist the contractor in construction. Structurally, we reviewed the design and confirmed there were a number of changes which could be implemented to the design which included a reduction in RC wall, piling and steelwork weight which all assisted the client to hit the required budget.