This made the completion of each stage of the project during the students' absence a key priority for our approach. As a state heritage listed residential university college, the works also required careful consideration and respect for the historic fabric. HAA leveraged its materials experience to identify potential challenges posed working on historical fabric within a constrained timeframe.

At the handover stage, HAA compiled a comprehensive final report for the College. This included detailed records of materials used, methods employed, any modifications made during the project, and recommendations for future maintenance and archival photography. 

The work was phased to allow flexibility in funding and address the vagaries of slate procurement. As part of the tender documentation, HAA proposed the most clear and logical sequence for the roof restoration works, replacing concrete tiles with Penrhyn Welsh slates. The ability to deliver slate became a key consideration for selecting the right contractor. The key issues of staged procurement and supply was investigated with in-depth tender interviews. Topics of discussion included ensuring the secured supply of slate supply, the application of innovative demolition methods, and provision of a safe and secure work site.

Delivering all four stages under a single contract streamlined the process, saving both time and costs for the client and contractor. As the stages progressed, HAA managed alterations to the original staging plan to coordinate with other major works occurring within the college schedule, and Covid opportunities

Throughout all stages of the project, HAA monitored the contractor’s performance and progress with regular site inspections in the usual way to ensure the work met the highest standards for slate replacement and historical reconstruction.  

The College is thrilled with the results of the roofing project. The roof, now watertight and beautifully restored with Penrhyn Welsh slate, is restored to its former glory. The final phase was completed a week early, and previous stages finished on schedule, ensuring minimal disruptions to the College and students. The key achievement for the project was its cost effectiveness. By consolidating the work under a single contract with the same contractor, the College was able to secure slate prices early on, locking in a level of price certainty giving the client confidence in its budgeting.