Construction Commencement and Project Progress at The Chestnuts – Checkley, Herefordshire
Construction works have commenced under a JCT Minor Works Building Contract. Working closely with quantity surveyor John Crooks, we’ve established a robust contractual framework to deliver this technically demanding project.
Contractor: Bowie Carpentry & Construction
Quantity Surveyor: John Crooks
Structural Engineer: Kee Leung, Odace
Site setup was completed with demolition of the existing dwelling followed by foundation trenching, first course blockwork installation, and radon gas protection measures. The stick-built timber frame approach quickly became visible, demonstrating the robust construction methodology that would deliver the exceptional thermal envelope.
Structural engineer Kee Leung’s detailed drawings guided the construction of this highly-insulated timber frame, with site meetings maintaining focus on quality, programme coordination, and early identification of potential issues.
However, the project encountered significant challenges during 2024 when the original contractor abandoned the site. Richard and Nicola determined the building contract, and we moved quickly to secure alternative contractor Bowie to complete the works.
This disruption was extremely frustrating for our clients, but our full-service appointment proved invaluable during this difficult period. We worked intensively to ensure continuity of quality, resolution of outstanding issues, and completion to the exceptional standards this project deserves – providing continuity of design intent and technical coordination through the contractor transition.
Key Focus: Programme recovery, quality resolution, systems commissioning
Milestone: Building Systems Commissioning
Date: January 2025
With Bowie now driving the project to completion, the building’s sophisticated mechanical and electrical systems are being commissioned to full operational standards.
Heat Pump Installation (Sparta Mech):
- Stiebel Eltron WPL 25 ACS air source heat pump
- 395L hot water cylinder with exceptional insulation
- Underfloor heating throughout (45°C flow temperature)
- Winter efficiency: 337.57%
- Commissioning engineer: Chris Ruck
MVHR System:
- Vent Axia Sentinel Kinetic FH
- 84% heat recovery efficiency
- Balanced ventilation serving all rooms
- Superior indoor air quality
Electrical Installation (Electricsfixed Limited):
- Full LED lighting throughout
- NAPIT certified installation
- Building Control notification complete
The combination of these systems will deliver exceptional comfort, minimal running costs, and outstanding environmental performance – demonstrating that despite the contractor challenges, the technical quality of this project remains uncompromised.
