We were appointed by a contractor client as the landscape architect for this 0.53ha school site. Our role focused on developing a practical landscape design that met the requirements of both the school and contractor.
We then prepared landscape architect information to discharge landscape-related planning conditions. In addition, we produced a full package of landscape tender and construction information. We also monitored the external works as construction progressed.
The main contractor refurbished the existing school building and provided a new extension. The project also improved the external areas and connected them with the extended school building.
The site is approximately flat. Mature trees define the eastern and western boundaries. A group of young trees also surrounds the main building entrance. Existing tarmac and grass areas provided play spaces. In addition, the site contained various items of street furniture that the project team planned to retain and reuse.
Meanwhile, the school needed to remain operational throughout the construction works. Therefore, the contractor needed to occupy the eastern playground during construction. The western car park consequently became a temporary playground.
Our landscape architect prepared phased landscape drawings and specifications to support this transition. This approach allowed the school to maintain suitable play provision while the building works progressed. It also helped coordinate the temporary arrangements with the wider construction programme.
The existing play area for the youngest children was too small for the number of pupils using it. Therefore, our landscape architect developed a landscape design strategy to increase the available play space.
The proposed extension occupied an area containing an existing stand of trees. As a result, the landscape architect specified a no-dig construction solution within the trees’ root protection areas. This approach helped protect the existing root systems while allowing the play area to expand.
The landscape design incorporated a coloured rubber-bound chipping surface. This provided a durable and practical finish for the extended play area. Consequently, the school gained more usable outdoor space without compromising the existing trees.
Overall, our landscape architect provided a coordinated landscape design and technical service from planning through construction. The resulting landscape improved the school’s external environment while responding to the site’s existing trees, operational requirements and phased construction programme.
Landscape Institutes Work Stages: D to K
Client: London Borough of Redbridge
Architect: Cayford Design
Developer/ Contractor: Cosmur Construction