A spotlight on some refurbishment and fit-out projects we delivered this year.

Westlands Medical Centre: February-April 2023

Over a 16 week schedule, the G&E team transformed an unused loft into valuable office space. Expert site management was required given that both the doctors surgery and the pharmacy we were working in, around, and above remained open throughout. Luckily, Steve Pye was on hand to provide exactly that.

Footfall was unaffected by the works, with a temporary walkway and entrance allowing patients to access both the chemist and the surgery throughout the project.

As well as bringing a new lease of life to the loft area, there were changes throughout; the existing toilet space was converted into two accessible WCs, a new staff kitchen was created, plus an external steel staircase, skylights, and a new structural walkway above reception.

Thank you to everyone involved, and to the staff at Westlands for making us feel so welcome throughout!

Clarendon Road Dental Surgery: January-March 2023

An existing basement apartment was converted into three separate treatment areas and side rooms for the practice. With it having previously been a standalone apartment, the conversion also necessitated the installation of a new internal staircase to link the new areas with the ground floor. Full refurbishment of the new space included all new mechanical and electrical services; and then all existing spaces got a complete overhaul as well to ensure the highest standards throughout.

A phased schedule ensured that the surgery could remain live throughout the project and minimised disruption to the business - that said, we very much appreciate the patience of the surgery staff while we were on site.

The Cowplain School: February-April 2023

Over a 10-week period, our team at G&E undertook crucial safeguarding works at The Cowplain School, enhancing the safety of the school grounds. This involved the installation of 1.2m and 2.4m high welded mesh fencing around the perimeter, the addition of pedestrian and vehicle access gates—some of which are automated (CDP element). We also adapted and re-jigged the existing access road and pathway to align with the new scheme, along with associated whitelining, bollards, and kerbing. As part of the retrofitting process, maglocks were added to external doorsets (CDP element), and fire alarm adaptations were made, linking the access control elements from maglocks and automated gates, totalling £10,000 PSUM.

Working in a live environment, we navigated the challenges with the utmost care, ensuring the safety of the young people at the school during the construction of new access and egress routes. Our team managed traffic, staff, and pupil movements effectively, overcoming obstacles to deliver a project that enhances the overall safety of The Cowplain School.

We extend our gratitude to everyone involved in this project and express appreciation for the cooperation and understanding of the school staff during this live and dynamic construction phase.

Shorefield Holiday Park: November 2022-March 2023

In the period from November 2022 to March 2023, G&E took on the refurbishment of common areas at Shorefield Country Park, including the Restaurant, Bar, Showbar, and Arcade. The scope of work encompassed a full electrical strip-out and installation of new electrical services. Demolition works were carried out on blockwork walls to accommodate new external windows and doorsets. Stripping out activities extended to blockwork walls, finishes, joinery, etc. A cellar extension was added, bespoke joinery implemented in Bar & Showbar areas, and new soft finishes and decorating applied throughout. Provision of new LTHW and HVAC systems was integrated into the space, along with new lighting and an extension of 1nr gas main to the new Kitchen area, with the fitout executed by others.

The project posed challenges, including a short program period and an immovable deadline, as the client needed to reopen for the Easter holiday. Despite these constraints, the team successfully navigated structural alterations and met the deadlines, ensuring Shorefield Holiday Park was ready for a timely and successful reopening.

This year has seen the introduction of a few new faces (two from the Mallon family) to team G&E. Guy joined us in January as QS, and Rob arrived with us in September as Estimator. Emma Mallon (office administrator) and Frankie Mallon (apprentice quantity surveyor) have both been here since the summer, and all of the new recruits have already become valuable assets to the business, and we look forward to seeing them develop further in 2024.

Also we want to extend our appreciation and congratulations to Mark Mallon. After over 30 years in the industry, it's time to bid farewell as he leaves us to enjoy a well-deserved retirement! Mark joined G&E in March 2015, and his expertise as our Procurement Manager has been invaluable. Mark, your contributions to G&E have helped us become the business we are today. We all wish you a happy retirement!

One final update is that we’ve recently moved to a new, bigger office in line with our continued growth. Of course, being office fit out experts we have to be perfectionists when it comes to our own space. Stay tuned for more information on that in the new year!

Wishing you all a very merry festive period!