"Demonstrating value for money and certainty of outcome is critical for all public bodies. Budgets are limited, and the challenge is to maintain security of budgets during the entire process." Cliff Thomas, Sector Director, Construction
Osborne has a long and successful history of completing building and civil engineering projects within the public realm, including civic buildings, city centre regeneration projects and parks.
During the past year we completed the £15 million refurbishment and remodelling of Isleworth Crown Court in west London for Her Majesty’s Courts Service. The project involved building a two-storey extension housing six new courtrooms, and four single-storey extensions to provide further facilities. Not only did the work have to be carried out without disrupting the existing courts, the site is also within a residential and conservation area. We worked hard to minimise the impact of our operations on local residents and businesses in the area.
Construction of the London Borough of Hackney’s new £43 million Customer Services Centre is on schedule for completion later this year. This modern building, which features a central atrium at its heart, will benefit local residents and staff by bringing together all Council services under one roof.
Osborne won the contract in a two-stage design and build tender. Despite very tight budgetary constraints we will be able to deliver a building that meets the designer’s intent and the requirements of the building’s users. We were also able to add considerable value for the client through the design process, including offering energy saving options and prefabricated M&E elements.
Our understanding of environmental requirements for public buildings enables us to advise public sector clients on meeting BREEAM standards and incorporating renewable energy into their projects.
During the last year Osborne has been appointed to undertake a major improvement of the area around Peterborough Cathedral, following the successful completion of the London Road Gateway scheme for Peterborough City Council. The regeneration scheme includes new fountains, utility diversions, and landscaping. It has been procured through the Midlands Works Framework 3, which enables Midlands Highways Alliance member local authorities to appoint contractors that have pre-qualified through the Highways Agency to work in the region. Peterborough City Council’s proven relationship with Osborne enabled it to enter into its first framework arrangement with confidence.
This year for the first time we have also been appointed as a framework contractor by the Environment Agency for minor works in the south of England.
Working in the public realm comes with responsibilities to represent our clients in a positive manner and to build relationships with local communities. Our major projects are registered with the Considerate Constructors Scheme. We aim to employ local people and use local suppliers where possible, and we engage with local businesses to ensure our work does not adversely affect their day-to-day operations.
Osborne is making excellent progress on the build of Hackney’s Customer Services Centre – we are looking forward to a successful handover in December. The building marks a key milestone in the consolidation of the Council’s estate and improvement journey. It will provide our residents and visitors to the borough with central modern facilities to do all their Council business. The atrium not only meets our requirements for first class customer services, Osborne has also embraced and supported the Council’s commitment to sustainability and value for money at the heart of our improvement programme. Mike Sofianos, Assistant Director for Customer Service, London Borough of Hackney
For more information please contact construction@osborne.co.uk
