Bargoed High Street North

Works comprised the following:-

• Removal of existing surfacing, kerbing, street furniture and drainage gullie
• Excavation within the carriageway to new line and leve
• Installation of surface water drainage to include a linear drainage system
• Protection works to existing basements and cellars
• Resurfacing of footways in natural pennant stone paving with granite
• Kerbs and fluted channels to downpipes
• Carriageway resurfacing in tarmacadam with stone sets and tactile paving to crossing points
• Installation of new street furniture to include adjusting existing covers and frames to new levels
• Working concurrently with other contractors
• Working in a densely populated area with the need for constant public/contractor interface
• Working closely with Statutory Undertakers and other Stakeholders
• The need to protect the existing Environment from the works being undertaken

Difficulties Overcome

• Disruption to local residents and businesses was mitigated by early contact to gain awareness of concerns, with continued liaison throughout the works period
• Problems with services were mitigated by close liaison and trial holes taken well in advance of careful excavation
• Traffic and pedestrian movements were managed under a comprehensive traffic management plan.

Construction Methods

• Public realm works were undertaken in phased sequences separated into operational sections
• A satellite compound for storage required both the piecemeal disposal of waste and supply of materials

Health and Safety

• Health and safety was a major feature within a busy town centre. Well executed traffic management secured safe working operations for the labour force and general public
• No reportable accidents during 52,000 working hours

Working with the Community

• Public liaison was continued throughout the life of the scheme works with particular attention paid to the town traders to keep disruption to a minimum
• An “Information Centre” in the centre of Town provided the opportunity for local people to make their enquiries – manned 2 days per week by our Community Liaison Officer
• Bulletins and Newsletters were regularly produced
• The scheme was registered with the Considerate Constructors Scheme and scored 31.5/40 – A high level beyond compliance
• Working within a busy town centre requires well organised working and safety procedures, all of which have been achieved here.
• The Site Manager/Liaison Officer maintained personal contact with retailers to schedule works around individual requirements.