Melhuish & Saunders, Winter 2023

Message from Darryl, Managing Director

As I reflect on this time last year, I could not have anticipated the twists and turns that 2023 would bring for Melhuish & Saunders. What began as the promise of another remarkable year, marked by our centenary celebration in the construction industry, took unexpected detours.

Despite a promising start with upcoming projects on the horizon, the reality of the business world reminded us that not everything unfolds as planned. Planning application delays and crucial decisions on project execution tested our resolve. Yet, with a century of experience behind us, we've weathered similar storms before. Although this year unfolded differently from our initial expectations, we take immense pride in completing outstanding projects, securing new ventures, and locking in various projects for the promising year ahead in 2024.

None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of our exceptional subcontractors, suppliers, clients, and fellow construction professionals. I extend my deepest gratitude to our dedicated team at Melhuish & Saunders whose hard work helps transform our Clients ideas, concepts and dreams to reality, demonstrating their commitment to achieving greatness.

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the construction industry, I am confident that our resilient team will continue to adapt and thrive. Here's to the accomplishments of the past and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead in 2024. All at Melhuish & Saunders wish you a Merry Christmas and all the best for 2024.

Strode College: Immersive Learning Laboratories - COMPLETE

Contract Value: ￡700, 000

Completion: October 2023

Alterations to Block B to form Immersive Learning Laboratories

This project was to create new immersive facilities, which included an immersive laboratory, a mixed virtual reality area with the facility to create content, a digital classroom and server room on a private network and a lecture room with a video wall and audio provision. The project involved repurposing the ground floor of B block; removing the existing spiral staircase and providing a reception, seminar rooms and supporting facilities for the teaching rooms described above.

Glastonbury Abbey

What an exciting time to be in Glastonbury with the Town Deal! Glastonbury Abbey is among the projects set to receive funding, and we were fortunate to play a role in the enabling works at the Abbey. This involved creating a new hardcore-laid area and pathway for the new ticket office. We also handled the removal of existing roof tiles, ensuring the safety of bats through specialised checks, and installed a new electrical service. Being local to the site allowed us to mobilise quickly, ensuring that Glastonbury Abbey's main project could proceed as planned, meeting their expected timeline.

Elim Housing at Oldland Common

Contract Value: ￡2 million

Completion: Winter 2024

Six self-contained bungalows

We are honoured to serve as the Principal Building Contractor for the design and build project of this specialised care scheme, working in collaboration with Ross Management Services Ltd and NOMA Architects. The project encompasses six self-contained bungalows tailored to meet the needs of individuals with learning disabilities, autism, and complex care requirements. Additionally, there is a separate unit for staff, enabling 24/7 support for residents. This initiative is a joint development involving Elim Housing Association, Bristol City Council, South Gloucestershire Council, North Somerset Council, Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire ICB, as well as key stakeholders such as Deeley Freed. We are excited to announce that we plan to break ground in the New Year!

Competition time!

Take a picture of our Christmas card or our latest Newsletter with your company logo, like us, tag us & share on your social channels using: #MelliesChristmas to be in with a chance of winning Glastonbury Abbey membership.

Broadbury Road Police Station

Contract Value: ￡2.2 million

Completion: Winter 2024

Internal refurbishment and reconfiguration

In early January 2024, we will begin work on-site at Broadbury Road Police Station in Bristol, starting with Phase one of the refurbishment. Our goal is to transform the existing police station across multiple phases, creating a modern and state-of-the-art facility to better serve and support the local community.

Date Palm Developments - COMPLETE

Contract Value: ￡900, 000

Completion: September 2023

Construction of new Laboratory facility over two floors including hard & soft landscaping

We are pleased to announce the successful completion of the new laboratory facilities in Baltonsborough for Date Palm Developments this year. This construction project enabled the client to install their specialised equipment, facilitating the expansion and development of Date Palm productions. The works entailed the use of specific equipment and services, some of which were provided and fitted by the client, with the main contractor attending as necessary. Additionally, the laboratory areas, referred to as 'clean areas,' required meticulous attention to detail. This included ensuring that internal finishes and junctions between walls, floors, and ceilings were well-sealed and free of joints and cracks. Furthermore, windows needed to be non-opening and well-sealed, while doors were tightly fitted when closed.