The construction team behind a major expansion project in Hull has achieved the highest possible score for its work while expanding the city’s University Technical College (UTC).
Working in partnership with Hull Esteem, Sewell Construction is transforming the former nearby Hull Central Fire Station to enable Ron Dearing UTC to increase its capacity from 600 to 800 students following growing demand.
STEAM Studios will be completed in summer and open to students in September, while the existing school building has also been reconfigured.
Sewell Construction has recently been awarded 45/45 in its Considerate Constructors Scheme inspection, recognising how the team respects the community, cares for the environment and values its workforce.
A post-inspection point was also awarded for implementing innovative best practice as the Sewell team engaged with students to produce a 360 degree video tour of the project as it progresses.
The Considerate Constructors Scheme is a not-for-profit, independently managed organisation which supports and guides positive change within the construction industry.
Dave Major, Sewell Construction Project Manager, said: “We’re continuously looking for innovative ways to develop the business and deliver sustainable solutions to help our clients while supporting skills development. This score echoes that and is testament to the hard work of the team and the quality approach we take when delivering projects.”
The industry average for schools and college sites in the scheme is 40.77 and there are more than 3,000 sites currently registered with Considerate Constructors nationwide.
Gavin Barley, General Manager at Hull Esteem, said: “We’re very proud to work in partnership with Sewell Construction on an important project to expand capacity at Hull’s Ron Dearing UTC.
“The school has been oversubscribed since it opened its doors in 2017 and this project will make a huge difference to increase the number of places available from September 2023.
“We know the Sewell Construction team is doing everything possible on site to ensure the very best outcome for the UTC and the team and this outstanding Considerate Construction Scheme score reinforces that.”
Considerate Constructors Scheme Monitors look for projects which follow the ‘Code of Considerate Practice’ in three key areas and the site team achieved 15/15 in each category.
The results highlighted Sewell Construction’s conscientious effort to engage with the local community, months before work began on site, through analysing the local area to ensure community impact is targeted and benefitting the right people.
It was noted there is a comprehensive plan in place to promote construction as a career and ensure the employment of a local supply chain, as well as employment of apprentices and work experience opportunities to local students, ex-forces personnel and those not in Education, Employment or Training (NEETs).
Sewell’s awareness of its environmental responsibilities was also highlighted, noting the aim of being Net Zero in its own operations by 2030.
It said the project is being carried out with a strong emphasis on sustainable construction practises, making use of green technologies to bring the former fire station back to life and ensure it is transformed into a vibrant, low carbon building.
Another highlight also focused on how the workforce is engaged daily through toolbox talks and site inductions, with the Monitor recognising a clear safety culture on site.
Regular audits take place, as well as specialist mental health talks, supporting an inclusive and diverse workplace and ensuring safe working as well as physical and mental wellbeing at work.
The Monitor said it was positive to see a number of female personnel on site, including Community Investment Champion Bethany and Document Controller Mel being directly involved with the Considerate Constructors Scheme process and Monitoring visit.