Bakersfield, Islington
Bakersfield is a major programme of fire safety and structural remediation being delivered for Notting Hill Genesis across seven residential blocks in the London Borough of Islington, ranging from three to eleven storeys and comprising 148 decanted homes. Delivered through the Notting Hill Genesis Contractor Framework under a proposed PPC partnering contract, Higgins is working collaboratively with Airey Miller as Employer's Agent, PRP as Architect and Fire Engineer, and Tullys Consulting Engineers to deliver extensive fire safety improvements and structural strengthening works that enhance the long term safety, resilience and performance of the buildings.
The fire remediation works include the replacement of windows and spandrel panels throughout the development, incorporating fire rated glazing to selected elevations and new cavity fire protection systems around openings and compartment lines. Internally, existing doors are being replaced with compliant FD30 fire doors, redundant mechanical and electrical services are being removed from risers and fire stopped at each compartment line, while electrical installations within every apartment are being upgraded with full rewires and new compliant distribution boards.
Alongside the fire safety improvements, Higgins is delivering a comprehensive programme of structural remediation across all seven reinforced concrete framed buildings. The works include the installation of Helifix remedial cavity wall ties to strengthen the cavity wall construction, the introduction of reinforced concrete elbows to tie party walls and façade walls back into the structural frame, and the installation of steel tie rods to strengthen intermediate timber floors, improving the long-term stability and resilience of the buildings.
Although residents have been temporarily decanted throughout the programme, Higgins continues to work closely with Notting Hill Genesis and key stakeholders to ensure the works are delivered efficiently while creating lasting community benefits. A tailored programme of social value initiatives, including local employment opportunities, education outreach and improvements to shared estate spaces, is helping to leave a positive legacy alongside safer, more resilient homes for future residents.
Delivered through Higgins' Specialist Works Division, the project benefits from robust quality assurance at every stage of the construction process. Comprehensive quality management procedures, digital inspection records and independent third-party verification provide complete traceability and support compliance with the Building Safety Act, ensuring every element of the remediation works is delivered to the highest standards.