PROJECTS
High Street, Grantham
Probus Construction Ltd were appointed as principal contractor on an unforgiving and logistically-challenging project in Grantham. 17, 18 and 19 High Street, Grantham are terraced buildings owned by the largest landlord in South Kesteven, Buckminster Estates.
The project outline
The task for Probus Construction was to convert derelict office spaces within the Grade II Listed Buildings into 9 high-end, high-spec, luxury apartments, offering quality- yet affordable- accommodation. As these living quarters are based on the High Street in Grantham, they were designed to offer convenience on the doorstep, as well as being within a 1-hour commute of the country’s capital, London.
A sympathetic restoration
When Probus Construction Ltd took possession of the Listed Buildings in Grantham, it became apparent that the building had been left to ruin for decades. The derelict building(s) revealed a curious case of dry-rot, mould and damp. The first task was to carefully and considerately treat, remove or replace areas of disrepair. The care and attention that Probus Construction took in these treatments or replacements were always completed sympathetically and in conjunction with both heritage consultants and conservationists. Whilst the buildings’ internal period features were retained, the surrounding structural elements all had to be strengthened or even replaced in order to improve the ‘bones’ of the building(s). Again, Probus Construction always had the ‘character’ of the building at the forefront of their minds in every change they were required make.
Overcoming logistical challenges
Given that this particular project is based on the High Street in Grantham, Probus were presented with logistical challenges. The site entrance on the High Street elevation was immediately adjacent to the foot traffic of local shoppers and residents. This meant that Probus had to introduce a barricade system to keep the general public safe throughout the contracted works. Whether this was just construction operatives moving between 18 and 19 High Street (via the two front doors) or completing window restoration at high level and introducing scaffolding to the High Street sidewalks and pavements. Probus always conduct their works in line with awarded licences from controlling authorities and always meet the safety requirements of working near the general public. As a company built on trust, this extends to the public, not just the client and/or the consumer.
Retaining the building’s heritage
Adding the required ‘character’ back in to a restored Grade II listed building is difficult. Probus Construction are no stranger to maintaining period properties and being considerate in construction. For example: on the ‘Finkin Street’ (a side street next to the building) elevation of 19 High Street, Probus Construction were required to repair, replace and reinstate bespoke timber sash windows to maintain that character that usually comes with Grade II Listed Buildings. Similar, the internal elements of 17, 18 & 19 High Street required sensitive re-instatement of period features, such as lime-ash flooring. These types of installations really bring the character back to a historic building that is undergoing modern construction to bring it up to today’s standards.
Working on Grade II Listed Buildings is a delicate balancing act. Probus Construction are no strangers to works of this nature. Due to our vast experience, Probus have the consideration and compassion required to blend modern-day structural and safety requirements with the character and features of period buildings.
Contact Us.
If you are currently looking at a development project or in need of a trusted and highly regarded building contractor get in touch with the friendly team at Probus Construction to discuss your future plans and see how we can help.
HEAD OFFICE
Probus Construction Ltd
Spalding Road, Bourne
Lincolnshire PE10 0AU
CONTACT
Telephone:
01778 428214
Email:
info@probusconstruction.co.uk
