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Category: Projects £15-25m Name: Derek Foster Company: Morgan Ashurst Project: Willow House and Reed House, Norwich Contract: JCT 1998 D&B |
A spot-on performance by Derek Foster has generated benefits over and above the typical top-notch construction manager's pride in a job well done. Clearly in complete control of this scheme to build two office blocks from start to finish, Derek didn't just stop at the shell and core, as originally envisaged, but was also given the contract to fit the blocks out on the basis of his excellent performance.
Derek's meticulous attention to detail and planning allowed him successfully to revamp the construction programme to incorporate the fit-out instruction – even though it came in week 17 and had to be integrated with (and not added to the end of) the original base-build schedule. He delivered the fit-out designs and procurement for the two buildings as works were progressing to an already tight timetable, and accommodated subsequent tenant changes with adroit management and communications.
It all went more or less to plan, although Derek needed to come up with creative solutions to manage the interface and overlap trades when the late fit-out instruction pushed the M&E badly behind schedule.
He programmed the works so that the roof could commence when only 50% of the steel frame had been erected, so cladding could begin as soon as the steel had gone up. He also modified the precast floor design to provide a cantilever for the blockwork to be laid on, eliminating external scaffolding and so reducing risk, cost and programme.
Even when the cladding subcontractor went into sudden administration 12 weeks before the end of the project with substantial works still to complete and some serious defects to remedy on the first building, Derek wasn't fazed. He enlisted a specialist manager and a labour-only installer to get back on track and complete as originally planned. The tight control he kept on costs ensured the project achieved its forecast profit despite the cladding subcontractor's demise.
Derek's delivery of this project was perfect. Both buildings were on time, on budget and to a remarkable standard of quality. His achievement was a powerful reason for the client to award Amec the D&B contracts for another five blocks in the same business park.
