Works on the North West Cambridge Development have already begun with two discrete construction packages, including the £3million contract to construct a new junction to the Development site and a £1.5million enabling works package, both awarded to Skanska. Works on the Site Wide Infrastructure Contract will commence this month (August 2014) with scheduled completion in Spring 2017.
Gavin Heaphy, Construction Director of the North West Cambridge Development said: “The University’s investment in infrastructure reflects the deep commitment to creating a high quality urban development that will benefit not only the future residents, but also neighbouring communities. The complex logistics behind the infrastructure, coupled with the ambitious levels of sustainability, make this a great opportunity for Skanska to join the team and work with us to create a lasting legacy for the University and the wider area.”
One of the main features of the North West Cambridge Development infrastructure works is the largest rainwater recycling system in the country. The integrated, site-wide Sustainable Urban Drainage System will move rainwater via a series of swales towards a lagoon, before the water is treated and pumped back into the homes for non-potable water uses. This significant investment by the University meets the local and national planning framework and aims to ameliorate the problems of localised flooding in the new and neighbouring communities whilst also reducing the average levels of water consumption for future residents.
The drainage system will be integrated and enhanced by extensive planting to form one of the largest soft landscaping projects in the country. With over 2400 trees being planted and a third of the development site being landscaped as open, green space for a range of leisure and recreational purposes, the University’s investment in infrastructure will influence and create a strong sense of place.
In addition to these features, the Site Wide Infrastructure Contract will include the delivery of all utilities (Gas, Water, Electricity, Data/Communications), co-ordination of the installation of the site-wide District Heating Network, and the construction of primary and secondary roads and pathways that provide essential links through and from the site to enhance connectivity in the area. Finally, the Site Wide Infrastructure Contract will include for the provision of all logistics and management arrangements to enable site works, including: traffic management, security, delivery management, site access and egress and management of the roadways throughout the building works.
Bill Hocking, Executive Vice President, Skanska UK said: “The North West Cambridge Development is one we are particularly proud to have won. Our previous work for the University has demonstrated that we have a clear understanding of its requirements and can deliver to them effectively. It is a clear endorsement of Skanska’s ability to provide innovative, sustainable and cost-effective solutions and builds on our other extensive infrastructure services projects in the region.”
Skanska worked alongside the University of Cambridge team, with Turner & Townsend Project Management and Gardiner & Theobald Cost Management.
_______________________________________________________