As part of multi-phase refurbishment works for Devon & Cornwall Police, by TCi construction WORKS, a brand-new public reception at Middlemoor now welcomes visitors to the site.
An impressive glass entrance with automatic doors welcomes visitors into a light and airy waiting area. The centrepiece is a bespoke, 5-metre, one-piece Corian® reception counter with a glass upper-shelf, built-in storage, cable management and accessibility features.
Wall decoration features soft-feel corduroy-effect tiles whilst an architectural wooden ceiling feature above the main desk helps to control sound levels. Three areas of breakout seating provide comfortable waiting space, with two large television screens installed to display multimedia information for visitors. A unisex, accessible WC and refurbishments to internal security door complete the interior.
Project Delivery
Having completed previous phases, including refurbishments to various buildings on the site, TCi construction WORKS embarked on this 10 week programme with a fully police-vetted workforce.
Temporary relocation of reception
With a secure external compound and strict Covid-19 access routes in place, the team commenced first with the relocation of the reception facility to a temporary environment, undertaking strip-out and light refurbishment (electrical, data, ceilings, decorations) to the new area and installation of the existing counter.
Main reception
Strip-out and demolition proceeded quickly, enabling constructive operations to start the following week. Throughout the project, it was essential to liaise closely with the client’s 3rd party service providers for data and security, CCTV and access controls. Several key programme milestones were incorporated to guarantee that these critical functions were incorporated fully into site operations. Early engagement with suppliers was essential to achieve the provision of several high-specification and bespoke products with some challenges following national lockdown, but with good management it was possible to avoid delays throughout. Working to the scope, the team communicated measurements and design ideas for the feature architectural ceiling with Cornwall-based manufacturer, Vtec. Working collaboratively, designers were able to share expertise and manufacture an effective structure for installation. Complementing the architect’s design and carefully selected furniture, a bespoke manifestation on the glass panels provides a continuous aesthetic along with a degree of privacy.
Completion
As the main reception for the entire police headquarters, staying on schedule was critical to other operations reliant on the facility. By maintaining excellent communication and stakeholder relationships, TCi was able to ensure that any delays to progress and problems were quickly resolved to achieve a positive outcome for all parties.
Additional refurbishment took place to return the adjacent temporary reception to office space to finish the project and all tasks were accomplished on time. The client has expressed that they are very pleased with the finish and that completion came in under-budget.
Speaking at the end of the project, Josh Arnold, Project Manager said, “this final phase brings our works to a neat close, having been on the site since February 2019. The public reception was a lovely opportunity to deliver a high spec finish that will be appreciated by a large number of visitors. It has been great to work with the Building & Estates team and staff at Middlemoor knowing that these refurbishments will be in place for many years to come.”