Name: Terry Routledge
Employer: P Whelan Ltd
Project: North East Fire Control Centre, Durham
Contract: JCT 98
Terry Routledge, an exceptional and experienced construction manager, was the perfect choice for this taxing and unusual project.
While there was only limited design risk given the level of detail supplied at tender stage, it was the sheer weight of technical specification that demanded exceptional expertise and outstanding attention to detail. This complex building incorporated a very large M&E package with a highly prescriptive spec that included multiple backup provisions for all major systems.
Quality was paramount and zero defects at practical completion was an expectation. Terry delivered by proving an ongoing photographic record of the installation at various stages, insisting on thorough snagging lists and resolving any issues as soon as they arose.
From the outset, he showed outstanding attention to detail and an exceptional understanding of the work, alongside a vision for the completed building that delighted the client and the architect.
Central to Terry’s success was his problem-solving acumen, which helped him to establish logical and practical solutions quickly and to communicate them effectively. He wasted no time in implementing those solutions and stayed calm under the pressure of a tight time scale, directing all his energies towards the goals.
For example, with the construction already well advanced, the decision was made to comply with the 2006 Part L2A rather than the less onerous 2002 Part L2 that had been initially specified. Quick to grasp the implications, Terry proactively drove the required design changes to achieve compliance.
An efficient, approachable and respected leader, Terry formed effective working relationships at all levels. This was a key ability for a building whose uniqueness required close relations with the client, the designer and the horde of specialist subcontractors and consultants.
A skilled communicator, Terry motivated the rest of the team to emulate his own high standards and meet the deadlines and all deliverables of the complex construction programme. He completed safely, on time, on budget and to the highest standard of workmanship.