The fast-track construction system has allowed Morgan Ashurst to deliver the student accommodation in half the time of a conventional build.
The crane, which can lift 8t to 25m, is placing 152 modules inside the building. They come complete with kitchens and bathrooms as well as furniture, fitted carpets and curtains, The scheme in King David Lane, is being built for UNITE Group, the UK’s largest provider of student accommodation.
“Modular construction requires an extremely high level of precision,” says Morgan Ashurst project manager Matthew Thomas. “On this project, we had a margin for error of only 1mm, which is a fine level of tolerance. Normally, that can be up to 25mm. However, this has been a rewarding project because we have developed an excellent relationship with UNITE and we are excited about creating a first-class facility for students.”
The huge interior sections were assembled at UNITE’s specialist factory in Stroud, before being transported by lorry down to the site.
Chris Sorenti, project manager for UNITE Group said: “Using our own off-site modular manufacturing techniques, John Bell House will be delivered to the highest quality specification in half the time of traditional build. UNITE currently operate some 3,000 bed spaces across the Capital where demand outstrips supply by two to one. This latest development is due to open its doors to 132 new customers in time for the 2009/10 academic year.”
Morgan Ashurst will work one floor at a time as scaffolding is put up, until it reaches the top of the building in January.
The building will also feature two grass roof areas on the sixth and eighth floors, creating space for students to relax outdoors and soak up far-reaching views of the city. The accommodation will be available for direct let to any students studying in the area but it is expected that those studying at nearby London Metropolitan University will occupy most of the rooms.
John Bell House is the ninth student accommodation construction project that Morgan Ashurst has undertaken for UNITE Group. Previous student residences the company has built include an £8.1 million student residence and offices at Redmans Road, Stepney Green, and a £7.5 million scheme at Solebay Street, near Mile End, both in East London.