Behind the scaffolding at Britannia Phase 2B is a dedicated and hard-working team navigating the design and delivery of this transformative scheme. We spoke to members of the team across site to learn more about the challenges, innovations and experiences that make this project unique.
Jamie Bland, Electrical Manager, has overseen the project’s electrical systems from the ground up. For Jamie, one of the most interesting elements has been working with photovoltaic panels for the first time. “Overseeing the PV installation has been a great learning experience. It’s something new, and that’s been really rewarding.”
Oliver Davies, Graduate Design Manager, plays a key role in managing design coordination through the project’s change control process. He has found the scale both challenging and exciting. “The building has a lot of repetition in its floorplans, which is helpful. If you solve a problem in one place, you can apply it across multiple levels.”
As the project moves closer to completion, Construction Manager Sandi Loncar is focused on final finishes and handover. “It’s about keeping the team organised, confident under pressure and hitting small targets every day that push the bigger picture forward.”
For Senior Construction Manager Bryan Murphy, coordination is at the heart of the role. “We’re working in a busy environment with nearby parks, a school, a leisure centre and a major cycle and pedestrian route. There’s also up to 600 people on site at peak, so logistics and safety are critical. We’ve introduced new approaches to traffic management on this project, and while there were challenges at the start, it’s been rewarding to use experience to help shape how that works.”
Façade Manager Radu-Nicolae Popescu has been leading the installation of thousands of precast elements across the buildings. “We’re installing around 3,000 precast units, all at height. Whether it’s working on upper levels or roof steel, every part of the façade requires careful planning and attention.”
Project Surveyor Albie Langdon has been involved since the early stages, helping manage the commercial delivery of the scheme. “Given the size of the project, we’ve split packages across multiple subcontractors to manage risk and keep the programme on track,” he says. “It also gives flexibility—if one contractor has issues, another can step in to support.”
Apprentice Site Manager Joe Maguire highlights one of the project’s more unique logistical challenges. “Some of the precast units weigh up to 13 tonnes, so installing them has required a completely different approach. We’ve had to use dedicated cranes and adapt how we lift and install the units, transferring them onto chain blocks and installing them from mast climbers.”