Our Lady & St Bede Catholic Academy, Stockton-on-Tees

Overview

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The project refurbished and reconfigured pupil toilet facilities. Originally scheduled during the summer holiday, on-site discoveries revealed dividing walls were structurally supporting upper floors and the roof. This required a redesign, reconfigured layouts and significant structural works.

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Scope of works

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Works began with the strip-out and demolition of all sanitaryware, IPS panels, partitions, cubicle doors, ceilings, flooring, redundant M&E and associated services.

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Structural works included temporary supports, permanent steel beams and padstones. Room layouts were reconfigured to accommodate the revised design. New drainage connections were installed, redundant pop-ups were capped and heating systems were diverted.

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Full 1st and 2nd fix mechanical and electrical works were completed. This included revised containment, lighting, hand dryers, roller shutters and access control adjustments. Fixtures and fittings included new cubicles, IPS systems, vanity units, DDA-compliant WCs, grab rails and washroom accessories.

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Finishes included Whiterock wall cladding, plastering, full decoration, vinyl flooring and skirting.

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Challenges and solutions

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Load-bearing walls required redesign and additional steelwork, which extended some works into term time.

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Structural and noisy works were prioritised and completed during holidays. The remaining fit-out was carefully phased during term time to minimise disruption.

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In the live school environment, hoardings, dust screens and external fencing maintained segregation. Daily liaison ensured safe operations alongside pupils.

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Noisy works were restricted to evenings and weekends. Deliveries, waste removal and M&E tie-ins were carefully planned.

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Health and safety compliance was maintained through fortnightly audits, hot works permits, fire alarm isolation and strict access procedures.

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End result

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Despite mid-project redesign and extended duration, high-quality refurbished toilet facilities were delivered on schedule.

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Modern, hygienic finishes, fully DDA-compliant WCs and enhanced accessibility create a safer, brighter and more user-friendly environment for pupils and staff.