CASE STUDY: FORMER BUS DEPOT

Introduction and Client Background

Our client agreed to acquire a former bus depot to facilitate the construction of a supermarket. The bus depot buildings had been demolished, but the floor slabs remained. The site sloped, and there were numerous basement structures and underground voids that could complicate redevelopment, potentially rendering the project unviable. Our client sought our development advice to help find solutions to navigate these site difficulties while accommodating the required size of the supermarket.

There was a risk of ground contamination from the site’s previous use, which the client aimed to mitigate. We provided a tailored solution.

Objectives of the Development Advice

The primary objective was to ensure that the risks associated with the ground, stemming from the former structure and potential contamination, were avoided. If they could not be avoided, they needed to be reduced to an acceptable level to keep costs within budget. Another aim was to guarantee that the supermarket operator was satisfied they would not inherit risks and future liabilities.

Development Advisory Approach

We engaged early with the site owners to understand the site’s history and gather all pertinent information that could benefit our client. We arranged for site surveys to be conducted early in the feasibility stage, ensuring our client was fully aware of potential risks. Mitigation strategies were then implemented to prevent costly delays and complications for the tenant later in the process.

Findings and Solutions

The initial site investigations enabled the design to develop while preserving some of the underground structures, thereby reducing costs. Localised ground contamination was found, along with an outbreak of Japanese knotweed. We advised on early intervention to mitigate risks and help our client minimise costs.

Engaging early with the local authority allowed solutions to be agreed upon, with the highways and drainage designs providing greater certainty for our client and aiding the planning process.

Outcome and Client Feedback

The project progressed successfully. The Tenant was pleased and approved the design for the supermarket, resulting in planning approval being granted. This enabled the client to proceed with tendering the work and appointing contractors to construct the supermarket within the Tenant’s timeframe.

Conclusion

At Inform Surveying, our development advisory services are tailored to provide clients with the expert guidance necessary to navigate the complexities of property development. From initial planning and feasibility studies to risk management and regulatory compliance, our strategic approach ensures that every project is founded on precision and foresight.

Considering a property development project? Contact INform Surveying today for expert development advice that empowers you to make confident, informed decisions and achieve successful outcomes.