LNT Construction recently acquired an aging 100-bedroom nursing home with plans to redevelop the site into a state-of-the-art, purpose-built nursing facility. The existing building was outdated and no longer suitable for its intended purpose, requiring full demolition to prepare for the new construction. Our team was contracted to demolish and clear the site, crush all appropriate materials on-site, and stockpile them in a designated area for future use. The project site was strategically located just off the main A259 road in a residential area, bordered by a Grade II-listed cottage on one side and a secured facility on the other. A significant aspect of the project was maintaining uninterrupted, 24/7 access to the secure facility, as it shared an access route with our demolition site.
To minimise disruption and ensure smooth operations, we developed a communication plan and worked closely with the secure facility’s manager. We scheduled regular meetings and provided updates on the project schedule, keeping the manager fully informed of any potential impacts. This proactive approach allowed us to identify and resolve issues in real-time, maintaining a steady workflow for both parties. By working collaboratively, we ensured that our work would not interfere with the facility’s operations, demonstrating our commitment to community engagement and effective project management.
The nursing home structure itself was a traditional build, with a concrete slab foundation, brick and block walls, and load-bearing slabs for the upper floors. The central core, which housed essential plant machinery, extended an additional level above the three-story building. Originally designed with a flat roof, the structure had been modified with a timber-pitched roof to support recently installed solar panels, adding an additional layer of complexity to the demolition process.
Following a small, controlled removal of notifiable asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), we began the strip-out phase. This stage involved the removal of all internal fixtures, fittings, and non-structural elements to prepare the building for heavy demolition. Using a mid-reach excavator with a selector grapple attachment, we systematically dismantled the building from top to bottom. The phased approach allowed us to carefully remove the timber roof, reduce the walls, and finally, remove the floor slabs while keeping the site safe and organised.
All materials generated from the demolition were sorted and processed on-site. Concrete, brick, and foundation materials were crushed to a 6F2 grading, producing approximately 3,500 cubic meters of recycled aggregate. By crushing these materials directly on-site, we reduced the need for external transport, minimising the project’s environmental impact and allowing for potential reuse of these materials in the upcoming construction. This sustainable approach aligned with our commitment to eco-friendly practices and responsible waste management.
This project required both meticulous logistical planning and flexibility to address the site’s unique challenges. Our commitment to open communication with neighbouring facilities, along with a focus on safety and sustainability, enabled us to deliver the project smoothly and efficiently. Balancing the operational needs of adjacent properties with our own demolition objectives helped us uphold our reputation for responsible construction management and community collaboration.
The project’s successful completion set the stage for LNT Construction’s new nursing home facility, contributing to the site’s redevelopment and exemplifying best practices in demolition and sustainable construction.
