BLOCK MANAGEMENT CASE STUDY · BEXHILL-ON-SEA
Wallington Towers, Bexhill-on-Sea
Restoring structural integrity and meeting high-rise fire safety requirements.
Originally part of a larger freehold company of three properties, Wallington Towers RTM Company appointed Oakfield as managing agents, taking over from the freehold company’s agent.
- CLIENT
- RTM Company
- BUILDING
- High Risk Residential Building
- KEY PROJECTS
- Structural repair and fire safety
- MANAGED FOR
- 6 years
3
main steel columns replaced
18
months of structural work
2023
work began on the southern elevation
6
years of Oakfield management
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01
Background
Initially managed by our department manager, Oakfield hit the ground running, and the Board of Directors were keen to begin maintenance on the building.
Over six years of management, Wallington Towers has had to tackle a number of significant issues. These have been handled incredibly well by the Board of Directors and leaseholders alike, with Oakfield providing support and guidance throughout. We are very grateful to work alongside such a close and understanding group of people.
02
A major structural discovery
In 2020, planning began to repoint one of the western elevations. During this work, a major structural concern was uncovered on the southern elevation: the steel beams supporting it had completely corroded, and the side of the building was being held up by the brickwork itself.
-
Detailed surveys
Working closely with the Board and Meridian Surveyors, areas of brickwork, balconies and pointing were removed to expose the steel frames and produce a specification.
-
First Tier Tribunal dispensation
Because of the severity and urgency, Oakfield applied to dispense with the requirement to consult leaseholders under Section 20 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.
-
Finding the right contractor
Approaching a number of contractors, which was a challenge given the size and complexity of the work.
03 · THE STRUCTURAL REPAIR
Returning the building to full structural integrity
After 18 months of hard work, unforeseen challenges and ongoing man-hours, the project has reached its final stages.
Work begins
Work started on the southern elevation with Total Project Management, overseen by Meridian Surveyors.
Structural scaffolding
Scaffolding was erected to take the weight of the elevation so the steelwork could be removed.
3 main steel columns
The three main steel columns were removed and the building returned to full structural integrity.
04 · FIRE SAFETY ENFORCEMENT
Meeting the deadline, practically and affordably
During the early planning of the structural project, Wallington Towers was served an enforcement notice by the local fire authority. New legislation then categorised the building as a High Risk Residential Building.
Oakfield worked closely with the Board, holding regular meetings with East Sussex Fire and Rescue, specialist fire safety consultants and contractors to meet the conditions in a structured and financially practical way, and within the enforcement notice deadline.
Around Wallington Towers
LOOKING AHEAD
The next phase
As both significant projects come to a close, we are preparing for the next phase of work with the Directors, continuing the journey to bring the building back to its highest standard.
- Full structural integrity restored
- Fire enforcement deadline met
- Next phase being planned
05 · CLIENT FEEDBACK
A few words from our clients, but says so much
“As a Director of an RTM Company that inherited considerable problems I have greatly appreciated the professional support we have received from Oakfield. They have helped to navigate us through a multitude of issues where their expertise and experience has be invaluable. I would certainly recommend their services.”
“Oakfields have dealt with the many issues and complicated problems that we have had in a very timely and professional manner. I would certainly recommend them.”
THINKING OF CHANGING AGENT?
Considering a change of managing agent?
Whether you’re an RMC director, freeholder, RTM company or developer, we can take the time to understand your building, current arrangements and priorities before recommending the right approach.
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4 Hayland Industrial ParkMaunsell Road
Castleham Industrial Estate
St Leonards-on-Sea
East Sussex TN38 9NN