The Bentall Centre

Commissioned as part of The Bentall Centre’s wider “Fresh Eyes” investment project, we delivered a complex £4.6m modernisation programme that has considerably improved the “retail shopping experience” for its visitors and tenants. Our range of works included the redesign of projection bays and structural improvements, including the prefabrication and installation of two new foot bridges. Significantly, the revamp has expanded the centre’s floor space so that it can accommodate 20% more footfall. Delivered to plan, on time and to budget, we were praised by the client for being “very approachable, courteous and friendly”.

Innovative design and value engineering were key features of our operational programme. In particular, we revised the initial design concept for the two link bridges, adopting an off-site manufacturing solution as opposed to a traditional construction methodology. As a result, core sections of the bridges, that link the car parks to the main body of the centre, were efficiently fitted into place “Just in Time”.

Importantly, the application of this Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) approach removed the need for scaffolding, view lines and hoardings. From the client’s perspective, it was also hugely beneficial as the solution resulted in no “downtime” during retail hours, and therefore avoided any potential rent reduction for tenants who may have been adversely affected if the initial plan had been adhered to. We also implemented a phased resolution to the redesign of the projection bays. By sectioning off areas of flooring for tiling and sequencing their completion, we ensured that the mall remained open at all times and, therefore, no impact was felt by tenants.