Builders ably found workaround during restrictions to create state-of-the-art school extension

The work which was completed for North Lanarkshire Council by Strathaven-based construction and refurbishment experts Procast had been due to begin in March 2020 but was put back to August because of the pandemic.

And the contractors admitted that there were “significant challenges” with the extensive makeover because a large proportion of the work took place during term time. Furthermore, the only access to to the the extension was through a communal entrance shared with staff, visitors and children.

As a result the management of downtakings and the scheduling of various works and deliveries had to be sensitively co-ordinated.

However, Procast – who had finished a similar project elswehere within the authority - at Whitelees Primary in Cumbernauld -drew on their expertise of delivering projects in high-footfall and public areas where the day-to-day needs of the client need taking into account.

As a result, the school extension now boasts a new dining area, kitchen facilities, a classroom and general purpose room and toilet facilities.

A Procast spokesman said: "The works that were due to commence in March finally got under way in a post-COVID-19 lockdown, so the world in which we were operating had changed. We had to ensure our work environment was a COVID-secure environment.

"On site, the challenges included the management of resources to ensure social distancing and ensuring a robust cleaning regime. Other challenges related to longer lead in times for materials due to demand.

"We adopted many measures that reduced disruption to the school and wider local community, which was very successful. Another great challenge of this project was the segregation of works and construction vehicles which again was managed successfully.

"We had a great collaborative and transparent working relationship with the head teacher and her staff. Aesthetically, we are absolutely delighted with how the project has turned out and the staff are very excited to move into their new annexe.”