Rotherhithe Estate, London SE16

Project information

This £10m regeneration project consisted of both the refurbishment and modernisation of 7 blocks in 7 years whilst using the latest sustainable methods and technologies at Rotherhithe Estate in South East London.

The seven elegant three-storey red brick apartment blocks on this William Sutton Housing Association project were built over 90 years ago and required extensive modernisation. Each block was stripped back to its original structural walls to allow for an increase in accommodation and improvement in layout. A typical block was reduced from 24 two-bedroom flats to 17.

Central heating was substantially upgraded to high efficiency condensing boilers with state-of-the art control systems, as well as this the installation of damp proofing systems and new window fittings were introduced, including patio doors to all properties which increase natural light to living rooms. There are low energy light fittings throughout the apartments and in communal areas. Residents were able to choose the colour of their new kitchen fittings and their own white goods from an energy efficient range. They were also introduced to several leaflets encouraging them to get the most out of their new environment, especially in terms of energy and water saving.

Externally the brickworks were repaired and walls cleansed. Bike stores were provided and security features such as well-lit walkways and police approved front entrance doors were introduced.

Durkan are delighted with the results. When Eco Homes awards were introduced in 2004, Codicote House, the fifth block to be completed achieved an Eco Homes ‘Excellent’ rating, this is believed to be the first ever awarded for a refurbishment project in the UK. The refurbishment also received ‘The George Plucknett Award,’ which is an acknowledgement by the National Homes Improvement Council for exceptional projects.

During the project Durkan ensured each of the 7 phases were completed on time (or before) and within budget. Disruption to residents was kept to a minimum whilst the quality of work was kept to a high standard. Residents at the Rotherhithe Estate are now able to enjoy more economical and environmental lifestyles.

Client Details

Client:

William Sutton Housing
Association Limited
Sutton Court
Tring
Hertfordshire HP23 5BB

Form of Contract:

JCT 1998 with Contractors Design

Contract Value:

£10m

Professional Team

Architect:

Hunter & Partners
26-28 Hammersmith Grove
London W6 8HU

Quantity Surveyor:

Pierce Hill, Cooper & Wood
Tubs Hill House
London Road
Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 1BL