School RAAC Removal and Gym Hall Refurbishment
25 weeks
210 tonnes
From a cost perspective, refurbishing an existing structure is often more economical. Demolition and new construction require substantial resources and time, whereas remediation aims to extend the building's lifespan, improve energy efficiency and safety, and enhance aesthetics.
Our approach provides a modern, safe, and energy-efficient solution that preserves the building's original purpose, making it ideal for this Dunblane school. Additionally, our project caused less disruption for students, as the refurbishment significantly shortened the timeframe for demolition and reconstruction; consequently, the gym hall was able to resume use.
Our Expertise
The project's complexity required us to apply our full suite of expertise across multiple integrated divisions. Client collaboration began early, with structural engineers and architects assessing refurbishment options.
Our team developed a construction plan that ensured the property's safety while introducing modern, sustainable solutions. Key tasks included the erection of a temporary roof to protect the building from unpredictable weather, managed and installed by our NASC-approved scaffolding division.
Our expert team removed and replaced RAAC panels and upgraded the building's façade with insulated render. Additionally, we installed an internal crash deck to ensure safety during operations, applying robust protective measures to safeguard the wooden gym flooring before the deck installation.
SCHOOL BUILDING REMEDIATION PROFESSIONALS
Essential to the roof refurbishment and removal of the RAAC panels was our installation of a new acoustic metal deck, vapour control layer, tapered insulation, and two layers of high-performance elastomeric felt membrane. By upgrading the property's drainage system with aluminium gutters and downpipes, we improved the material's aesthetic and longevity, and enhanced the roof's long-term performance.
As the building's original high-level windows had significantly deteriorated, we replaced them with new aluminium frame windows, achieving a U-value of 1.4 W/m²K. This upgrade enhanced the gym's interior and exterior appearance, improved its thermal performance, and improved structural compatibility with the new roof system.
Our UKATA-trained operatives identified potential asbestos-containing materials in the soffit sections above the windows. SEAS (Starfish Environmental and Asbestos Services Ltd), the ARCA-accredited asbestos division of Starfish Construction, promptly carried out a site visit to assess the material and the required works. The material was sampled and analysed by a UKAS-accredited laboratory that confirmed the presence of amphibole amosite and serpentine chrysotile. The material was asbestos insulation board.
SEAS ensured full compliance with Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR 2012), managing the licensed removal process with meticulous attention to health and safety. This was reflected in the unannounced ARCA site audit undertaken during the removal works.
The client was particularly impressed by the seamless integration of SEAS within Starfish Construction’s range of services, including the scaffolding provided by Starfish Access Solutions. This in-house capability not only streamlined the project but also ensured safety, compliance, and efficiency. With asbestos often present in properties featuring RAAC, SEAS delivers essential expertise and reassurance, making even complex projects safe and stress-free for our clients.
Our success
Undertaking a project of this scale required overcoming several challenges, including addressing the structural risks posed by RAAC panels, managing the presence of asbestos, and maintaining progress despite adverse weather conditions. Our integrated delivery model ensured that we efficiently resolved any property issues and challenges. The temporary roof allowed rendering works to continue uninterrupted, and the knowledge and expertise of the in-house SEAS team minimised potential programme delays associated with asbestos identification and removal.
The refurbished gym hall now stands as a testament to the advantages of remediation over rebuilding. By working with Starfish Construction, the client benefited from a streamlined process, enhanced sustainability outcomes, and a modern, safe, compliant facility that will serve the school for many years. Our project approach and delivery demonstrate our credibility in buildings with RAAC or asbestos presence, as well as the value of preserving and improving existing structures, offering a blueprint for sustainable construction in the future.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT PARTNER FOR RAAC REMEDIATION
Our remediation planning, knowledge and project delivery credibility make us a natural and trusted partner for clients. Our advisers provide comprehensive advice to help you make informed decisions about your property portfolio.
Through accreditation, specialist knowledge, and proven experience in successfully removing RAAC, we deliver expertise to complex RAAC and asbestos-inclusive projects. Our in-house surveying, design, roofing, scaffolding, façade, and asbestos management divisions work as an integrated team to reduce risk, avoid delays, and provide a single point of contact for safe, compliant, and sustainable building envelope remediation. Robust planning and management processes, supported by online reporting with real-time updates and photographic evidence, ensure stakeholders remain fully informed from preconstruction to closeout. By tailoring solutions to each project’s needs, we have built a reputation as a trusted partner across sectors, including Defence, Education, Retail, Healthcare, Hospitality, and Resident Accommodation.
