The Quadrant, Brixton
We were appointed by Notting Hill Genesis to deliver the design and construction of comprehensive façade remediation and fire safety improvements to Oak Square, an occupied Higher Risk Building development in South London comprising nine residential blocks of up to nine storeys and 271 homes. Acting as both Principal Contractor and Principal Designer (Building Regulations), Higgins is delivering the project under the Building Safety Act 2022, leading design coordination, Building Safety Regulator compliance and construction delivery through to Gateway 3.
The works include the removal and reinstatement of external masonry and terracotta façade systems, installation of new Teplo wall ties, masonry support angles, horizontal and vertical cavity barriers, together with the full replacement of Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems serving all 271 homes. Associated fire stopping, ductwork replacement and pressure testing are being undertaken to enhance fire performance and ensure compliance with current Building Regulations. The project successfully achieved Building Safety Regulator Gateway 2 approval before progressing to construction.
Delivering the programme within a fully occupied development requires careful coordination of extensive internal and external remediation works whilst maintaining resident safety and uninterrupted access. Higgins has developed a phased construction strategy that coordinates façade remediation with intrusive MVHR replacement works, supported by temporary resident decants using void properties, an off-site consolidation facility for just in time deliveries and licensed wait and load waste collections to minimise disruption within the constrained site. Terracotta tiles are also cut-off site before delivery, reducing dust, noise and manual handling activities within the occupied environment whilst improving installation efficiency.
Working collaboratively with Notting Hill Genesis, the consultant team and specialist subcontractors, Higgins manages Building Safety Act compliance through robust design coordination and Golden Thread information management. Design, construction and compliance records are maintained within Viewpoint, providing complete traceability of design decisions, product approvals, installation records and regulatory submissions throughout the project lifecycle.
Effective communication with residents is fundamental to successful delivery. Monthly resident meetings, Meet the Contractor events, newsletters and a dedicated Resident Liaison Officer ensure residents remain informed and supported throughout the programme. Complemented by full time site security and a proactive approach to community engagement, Higgins continues to deliver this complex remediation programme safely while maintaining occupation and achieving high standards of quality, compliance and customer satisfaction. The project has achieved 92% (Excellent) under the Considerate Constructors Scheme.