Where to find us
Job Location:
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service
Client:
Willmott Doxon
Programme:
TBC
Services:
Sub-structure, Superstructure, External Works
Building Resilience: GRK Civils at West Yorkshire fire and rescue service (WYFRS)
GRK Civils proudly contributed to the development of the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) headquarters and training facility in Birkinshaw, Bradford. In partnership with Willmott Dixon, we played an integral role in delivering a state-of-the-art complex, designed to support the vital work of the fire service. This project showcases our ability to execute complex groundworks with precision, efficiency, and a focus on long-term resilience.
Expertise in Action
Our comprehensive scope of works, valued at over £5.3 million, included:
- Concrete foundations for all new buildings, including the fire station, office block, and training facilities.
- Installation of gas membranes, concrete to the ground and upper floors.
- Construction of extensive drainage systems, incorporating attenuation tanks, petrol interceptors, and new ducting and service runs.
- Development of concrete retaining walls, service yards, and external works, including kerbing, paving, permeable car parking bays, and anti-ram bollards.
- Creation of state-of-the-art underground training tunnels, designed to simulate real-life rescue scenarios for firefighter training.
- Installation of concrete steps with granite finishes, grass guard parking bays, traffic islands, and preparation for tarmac works.
Throughout the project, our team maintained a high standard of quality, ensuring that every element of the infrastructure met the rigorous demands of an emergency services facility.
Overcoming Unique Challenges
The WYFRS project presented a range of challenges that tested our problem-solving capabilities:
- Design Complexity: Frequent design changes impacted all trades, requiring agile adjustments to our programme. We maintained project momentum through proactive communication, weekly coordination and Nialli meetings, and a robust RFI (Request for Information) process.
- Intense Quality Demands (QD System): Adapting to Willmott Dixon’s stringent QD system posed an initial learning curve, but our team quickly integrated these requirements, ensuring compliance without compromising efficiency.
- Water Management: Situated on a slight hillside, the site experienced water accumulation issues. We effectively mitigated this with clean stone soakaways and strategically placed land drains.
- Collaborative Dynamics: Navigating the complex dynamics of working with large contractor teams required strong leadership and adaptability. Despite these challenges, GRK Civils maintained professionalism, fostering positive relationships and delivering quality results.
Project-Specific Highlight
A standout feature of the WYFRS project is the underground training tunnel system. This innovative facility provides firefighters with a controlled environment to practice high-risk rescue operations, enhancing their readiness for real-world emergencies. Our expertise in precision concrete works was pivotal in delivering these tunnels to exacting safety and design standards.
Additionally, the project emphasised community engagement. Regular school and college visits provided educational insights into construction careers, while our team navigated and resolved concerns from local residents, maintaining positive community relations throughout.
Conclusion
GRK Civils’ partnership with Willmott Dixon on the WYFRS project exemplifies our commitment to excellence, resilience, and community impact. Our ability to adapt to complex challenges, uphold rigorous quality standards, and deliver innovative infrastructure underscores our reputation as a trusted partner beyond groundworks.
Through this project, we have not only supported the critical work of West Yorkshire’s firefighters but also contributed to the safety and resilience of the wider community—demonstrating once again that GRK Civils is built on a foundation of integrity, expertise, and lasting impact.
