We were successfully selected to deliver the wholesale refurbishment of the Burgoyne and Napier Blocks at Brompton Barracks, delivering a comprehensive upgrade of two key accommodation buildings within a live military environment. The project required careful coordination, attention to detail, and strict adherence to security and quality standards. Our goal was to modernise the spaces, improve performance across all building systems, and provide a comfortable, durable, and compliant environment for future occupants.
The works encompassed a full internal refurbishment, beginning with a complete soft strip-out. We removed existing furniture, flooring, kitchens, sanitaryware, and wall and floor tiles to prepare the blocks for a full rebuild.
On the mechanical side, we installed a new ventilation system throughout drying rooms, ablutions, bathrooms, and cleaning cupboards. We fitted new showers, toilets, baths, and basins, and carried out remedial works to an existing flue to resolve a latent defect. The project also included the chlorination of the water system and the removal of redundant water tanks from the roof voids to improve efficiency and safety.
Our electrical works included a complete lighting upgrade, with new layouts in all kitchen areas and the installation of new distribution boards in risers (12 in total) and plant rooms (2). This work required carefully coordinated shutdowns to minimise disruption and maintain operational safety.
We also installed Whiterock wall cladding to all ablutions and wet areas, laid new vinyl and carpet flooring throughout, and supplied and fitted new furniture to 72 rooms. In addition, we installed 12 new kitchens, 12 IPS units, 6 baths, and 6 cleaners’ cupboards, creating a fresh, modern, and compliant living environment.
During the works, we discovered that none of the existing firestopping met current standards. We rectified this by carrying out full, compliant fire-stopping works across both blocks. Finally, we completed window and external door remedial works, ensuring the buildings were fully secure and weather-tight.
This project presented several challenges that required adaptability and strong communication. Last-minute variations were introduced late in the programme, affecting sequencing and closeout activities. We managed these efficiently by re-prioritising critical path tasks and maintaining open dialogue with the client team.
Midway through the project, the painting contractor unexpectedly withdrew, which created immediate resource and scheduling pressure. We responded quickly by mobilising a new team, maintaining quality and momentum without significant delay.
Working within a secure army base also demanded meticulous planning. Every contractor, visitor, and delivery had to be pre-approved and security-cleared, which extended lead times and limited flexibility. Despite these constraints, we kept the project on track through early coordination and disciplined logistical planning.
The tight programme required precise sequencing, close collaboration, and proactive problem-solving. Our team remained focused and solution-oriented, ensuring delivery within the revised timeframe.
Given the scale of the refurbishment, we generated a significant volume of waste. Initially, the quantity exceeded our expectations, prompting us to reassess our waste management approach. We increased the frequency of waste collections and improved segregation on site, ensuring compliance and minimising environmental impact.
We are committed to learning from this experience and now apply more robust waste forecasting and disposal strategies to similar large-scale refurbishment projects.
Throughout the project, we took opportunities to improve upon traditional approaches. We successfully resolved an existing latent defect in the flue systems for both blocks, ensuring the buildings now operate safely and efficiently. We also upgraded the ventilation system, enhancing air quality and comfort.
During the electrical works, we discovered that existing cables had deteriorated over time. We replaced these with modern, more efficient fittings, improving the system’s reliability and safety.
These upgrades not only addressed legacy issues but also enhanced the long-term performance and resilience of the building infrastructure.
We embraced digital tools to support efficiency, quality control, and communication throughout the project. On the electrical side, we used Procure to track RFIs, manage documentation, and monitor quality, which significantly streamlined coordination. While not all contractors adopted the platform, it proved highly effective in managing information flow.
Across the wider project, we relied heavily on Site Audit Pro for daily reporting, inspections, and tracking of site activities. This tool helped us maintain transparency, support proactive issue management, and improve overall project governance.
The refurbishment of the Burgoyne and Napier Blocks demonstrated our ability to deliver complex works in a secure and challenging environment. Despite late variations, tight deadlines, and logistical constraints, we completed a high-quality refurbishment that modernised essential military accommodation.
By combining strong project management, digital innovation, and a commitment to continuous improvement, we delivered a result that not only met but exceeded expectations — leaving the client with upgraded, compliant, and efficient facilities ready for long-term use.
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