Trail Group Delivers Fast-track Build-to-rent Project in Tunbridge Wells

Appointed by client Dune Resources, Trail Group transformed a former commercial unit – previously a dental practice – into four one-bed apartments and two studios for private rental.

The build-to-rent project was delivered to a short programme, on time and on budget, and completed to a high standard in just six months.

The works were carried out in a live, multi-occupancy building, requiring close co-ordination and stringent controls to minimise disruption and noise levels to residents in the flats above.

Pre-agreed working times were carefully managed, whilst secure working zones were maintained at all times – a critical consideration given other occupants of the building included families with young children.

The project had a number of technical challenges typical of refurbishment and conversion schemes, such as the requirement for new structural steelwork to support a reconfigured layout and new corridor access to the apartments, and extension of the existing lift shaft to serve the new homes on the lower ground floor.

Trail Group delivered a comprehensive scope of refurbishment and fitout works to each apartment, including replacing floor joists, new insulation and partitions; ceilings and flooring; full electrical installations and lighting; heating, plumbing and drainage; kitchen and appliance installation; shower rooms, internal decorations and new entrance systems.

The project required a strong focus on building safety and compliance, with extensive fire compartmentation measures integrated into the build programme.

Jo Crosby, Property and Lettings Manager, Dune Resources:

“All the properties were let within just one month of completion, which reflects the quality of these new homes.

There were 34 occupied apartments within the building and so it was particularly important that our contractor on this project worked considerately. The construction team was always respectful to our tenants in their management of parking arrangements, noise levels and keeping residents informed.

The refurbishment and conversion works were delivered on time and on budget, and Trail Group maintained strong project management throughout.

We have worked with Trail previously on fire protection works and would be very happy to work with them again on future projects.”

David Humphrey, Operations Director of Trail Group:

“Our Construction Division’s successful delivery of this project at Lonsdale House reinforces the Group’s capabilities as a trusted partner to building owners and operators for the refurbishment, conversion and upgrading of their built assets, particularly in constrained urban environments and in occupied buildings.

We were also pleased to contribute to the urgent need for more homes for rent in the town.”

Trail Group’s Construction Division works across the public and private sectors, delivering refurbishments, extensions and complex retrofit schemes for clients including larger private landlords, social housing providers, commercial companies, hotels and local authorities, with a consistent emphasis on minimising disruption and programme certainty.

For further information, visit www.trailgroup.co.uk, call 01322 370711 or email enquiries@trailgroup.co.uk.