Where to find us
Job Location:
Astley High School
Client:
BAM Construction
Programme:
32 Weeks
Services:
Pre-construction, Sub-structure, Superstructure, External Works
Building the future: Astley High School redevelopment project
GRK Civils is proud to have been a key partner in delivering the Astley High School redevelopment project in Seaton Delaval, Northumberland. This ambitious initiative, overseen by BAM Construction and Northumberland County Council, will provide state-of-the-art educational and sports facilities for over 1,000 students and the wider community. With sustainability at its core, this project exemplifies innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to creating a net-zero carbon operation.
Expertise in action
Our involvement in this project spanned a comprehensive 32-week program, during which GRK Civils delivered exceptional groundwork and formwork services. Highlights of our scope of work include:
- Mass Fill Pad Foundations: Over 200 foundations poured, totalling approximately 1,800m³ of concrete.
- Substructure and Superstructure: Construction of the ground floor slab, waterproof membrane installation, and concrete topping to SMD metal decking for upper floors.
- Installation of drainage systems, including two large attenuation tanks:
- Swimming Pool Construction: Complex formwork and concrete pours for the pool’s gradient base slab and FRC walls, working closely with Myrtha Pool Specialists.
- Off-Site Car Park: Development of an 11,000m² car park to streamline traffic flow and ensure safe access for students and staff.
a. Off-site car park tank: 440m² surface area, 502m³ capacity. The installation included Aqua Cell units, a full membrane wrap, and backfilling, achieving a significant milestone at this crucial project area.
b. On-site tank: 1764m² surface area, 2100m³ capacity—GRK’s largest attenuation tank to date. Our expert crew made impressive headway with the membrane installation reaching 60% completion, followed by the installation of NG Aqua-Cell units.
Overcoming Unique Challenges
Astley High School’s redevelopment presented several logistical and technical challenges, each of which GRK Civils overcame with meticulous planning and execution:
- Weather Conditions: Persistent rainfall prior to project commencement left the site waterlogged, requiring extensive de-watering systems and strategically placed water pumps.
- Accelerated Timelines: Despite a tight schedule, our team completed the foundation phase over two weeks ahead of program due to thorough pre-construction planning and daily progress meetings.
- Proximity Coordination: Managing multiple trades and high volumes of plant and operatives required robust site management to ensure safety and efficiency.
Project-Specific Highlight
One of the standout features of this project is the integration of cutting-edge sports facilities, including a Sports England 4G pitch and MUGA pitches, complemented by the meticulously constructed swimming pool. Drone imagery captured the pool frame’s intricate detailing, a testament to GRK’s precision and expertise.
Beyond the technical achievements, our team’s engagement with the local community exemplified GRK Civils’ commitment to creating positive relationships. A local resident, Chris, a retired lumberjack, contributed a handcrafted windmill now proudly displayed on-site as a symbol of community connection.
Conclusion
The Astley High School redevelopment showcases GRK Civils’ ability to deliver complex, high-profile projects with professionalism and innovation. By collaborating with BAM Construction and other stakeholders, we have laid the foundation for a facility that will serve as a beacon of education and community engagement for generations.
At GRK Civils, we go beyond groundworks, partnering with our clients to deliver excellence at every stage. This project is a shining example of our commitment to building a better future with integrity, expertise, and pride.
