Tocris Bioscience Avonmouth

Client

KIER

Location

Bristol

Package Value

£200K

Sector

Commercial

Tocris Bioscience Avonmouth project transforming a derelict DIY centre into a cutting-edge scientific laboratory.

[Image credit: Kier ]

Overview

A challenging project, transforming a derelict DIY centre into a cutting-edge scientific laboratory. Retaining the building’s shell and floor slab, the project required significant alterations to accommodate the new purpose. The collaboration with Kier was pivotal in navigating the complexities of the project. Effective communication and coordination between all stakeholders were instrumental in overcoming challenges and ensuring the successful realisation of each goal. Solum’s core contributions to the Tocris Bioscience project encompassed the following scopes of work:

Drainage Installation

The change in building use demanded a comprehensive drainage system below ground. This involved cutting through the existing floor slab to install the necessary drainage systems. Trenches were excavated, drainage components were laid, and the trenches were reinstated to ensure a seamless integration of the new infrastructure.
Main Foul Connection

Another critical aspect of the project was establishing a connection for the main foul pipe. A challenging aspect of the project as it required passing through a live aviation fuel line that extended from Avonmouth to Gatwick.
External Services & Landscaping

To accommodate the change of building use, external services and hard landscaping were strategically deferred to later stages of the project. This deliberate decision provided the necessary flexibility to adjust based on the evolving requirements of the laboratory.

Tocris Bioscience Avonmouth - Site image

Challenges

The project posed a logistical and structural challenge due to:

Navigating the Aviation Fuel Line

A significant hurdle was the presence of a live aviation fuel line running from Avonmouth to Gatwick. The main foul connection had to pass the fuel line. A 2m exclusion zone surrounded the fuel line, and any activities near it needed supervision from the fuel company. The Solum team successfully made the foul connection while respecting the exclusion zone and adhering to stringent safety protocols.

Key Results

XX m³

of concrete poured

XX m

of drainage laid

XX m²

of concrete floor slabs constructed

XX m³

of material excavated

XX

tonnes of aggregates placed

Client: Kier

A strategic supplier to the UK Government with key strengths in education, healthcare, custodial, transport, and defence. For around 100 years, they have worked on vital infrastructure supporting communities.