Lemsford Road, Hatfield

Lemsford Road is a comprehensive fire safety remediation project being delivered for Metropolitan Housing Trust Limited across three occupied residential blocks in Hertfordshire, providing 78 homes. Procured through a collaborative two stage strategy comprising a Pre-Construction Services Agreement followed by a JCT Design and Build contract, Higgins is working alongside Silver as Employer's Agent, CZWG Architects and Osborn Associates as Fire Engineer to deliver a coordinated programme of fire safety improvements that enhances resident safety and supports long term building resilience.

Constructed using a timber frame with terracotta tiles and timber cladding, the buildings required a carefully developed remediation strategy following intrusive fire safety investigations and PAS 9980 assessments. The works include the replacement of non-compliant rendered and timber rainscreen façades, installation of compliant cavity barriers, remediation of window and door interfaces, upgrades to fire stopping and compartment walls, installation of cross corridor fire doors and improvements to fire safety systems throughout the development.

The collaborative procurement approach enabled early contractor involvement to develop buildable solutions, coordinate investigations and refine the remediation strategy before progressing into the main construction phase. This early engagement has been fundamental in achieving Building Regulations compliance and supporting the delivery of a fully compliant external wall system.

With the buildings remaining fully occupied throughout the programme, maintaining resident confidence has been a key priority. A dedicated Resident Liaison Officer works closely with Metropolitan Housing Trust's Customer Liaison Team to coordinate access arrangements, provide regular programme updates, undertake pre and post works condition surveys and support residents throughout construction. Specific arrangements are in place for vulnerable residents, including tailored access procedures and DBS checked operatives where required, ensuring the works are delivered safely with minimal disruption to day to day living.

Delivered through Higgins' Specialist Works division, the project is supported by robust quality assurance procedures, digital inspection records and independent third party verification, providing confidence that every aspect of the remediation works is delivered safely and in accordance with current fire safety standards.

Alongside the construction works, Higgins is developing a targeted programme of social value initiatives focused on local priorities, creating lasting benefits for the community while delivering safer homes for residents.