Client: Highland Council
Key Consultants
- Bracewell Stirling Consulting
- Fairhurst
- CDMM
- Goodsons
- Hirst
Project duration
18 months
Project overview
This design and build project represented the second phase of a significant social housing development for Highland Council in Fort William. The scheme delivered a total of 63 high-quality residential units, comprising three blocks of nine flats, five blocks of cottage flats and a mix of two, three, and four-bedroom villas.
The comprehensive scope of works encompassed all aspects of the build, including full plumbing and mechanical & electrical installations, painting and partial floor finishes. External works included the installation of foul and surface water drainage, water, electricity, telecommunications and street lighting services. The project also involved significant groundworks, the construction of roads and parking areas, footpaths, retaining walls, fencing and soft landscaping.
Key challenges
A notable challenge encountered during the initial stages of the project was insufficient capacity within the Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) infrastructure. This posed a potential delay to the energisation of the new homes. However, through proactive and collaborative discussions with SSEN, the project team successfully negotiated an agreement for the provision of power ahead of the initially projected timeframe, mitigating any potential impact on the overall programme.
Key successes
Despite the initial infrastructure challenge, the Highland Council Social Housing Project – Phase 2 was successfully completed on program and within budget over an 18-month period. This achievement underscores the effective planning, coordination and execution by the entire project team.
Furthermore, the Site Management Team and TSL employees demonstrated exceptional efficiency throughout the construction process, resulting in a high-quality handover of the 63 new residential units to Highland Council. The quality of the build reflects the collaborative and dedicated approach of all stakeholders involved in delivering much-needed social housing to the Fort William community.
