Client

An innovator in urban warehousing in London, this client builds high specification inner-city developments. With better amenities, these units create a better working environment, delivering better outcomes for today’s businesses.

Objectives

This project involved the demolition of existing structures and the redevelopment of a new industrial estate in a highly constrained inner-city location. Surrounded by over 20 neighbouring properties and structures, the project faced significant logistical challenges, particularly with access and the need to manage multiple adjoining owners and surveyors. Thomas & Thomas was appointed to complete the pre-acquisition surveyor and as the Party Wall Surveyor.
 

Scope of Work

• Pre-acquisition: A thorough pre-acquisition survey was carried out by Thomas & Thomas of the existing structures on site. This survey was critical in identifying any structural or legal issues that could arise during the redevelopment and evaluating the existing buildings’ condition before demolition.
• Feasibility: A comprehensive investigation was undertaken to identify potential adjoining owners. Given the high density of commercial properties surrounding the site, this required detailed research and identified access issues that would require careful management of the procedure to ensure access was lawful.
• Schedules of Condition: Thomas & Thomas prepared detailed schedules of condition for all adjoining properties. These reports provided a clear record of the condition of these buildings prior to any work being carried out, minimising the risk of disputes and facilitating smooth negotiations with property owners.
• Party Wall Awards: Given the scale of the project and the number of adjoining owners, the negotiation and finalisation of party wall awards were particularly complex. Party wall agreements were negotiated and finalised over two phases, covering both the demolition of the existing structures and the construction of the new industrial estate. Access issues were a key point of negotiation, as the limited space around the site required creative solutions to ensure the works could proceed without undue disruption to neighbours.

Challenges

The project’s central location and the number of adjoining properties presented numerous challenges, particularly concerning access. The team at Thomas & Thomas used the Party Wall Act to resolve these issues effectively, ensuring that all necessary notices were served allowing access under the Act.
 

Sustainability

In keeping with modern standards for energy efficiency, the redevelopment was designed to achieve an EPC rating of ‘A’ and targeted a BREEAM Excellent certification. This involved implementing sustainable construction practices and materials with a focus on long-term environmental performance.
 

Outcome

Through meticulous planning and extensive negotiations with over 20 adjoining owners, the project continued without delay. Despite the inherent challenges of the site and the complexity of the party wall matters, Thomas & Thomas successfully managed to keep the project on track, ensuring all legal requirements were met and all stakeholders’ concerns were addressed.