Merlin Regeneration
- Client
- Merlin Housing
- Location
- South Gloucestershire
- Project Leaders
- Richard Fellows Colm Coyle
Challenge
The overall scheme involved the redevelopment of 500 of Merlin’s existing PRC units. The projects within the Merlin programme are a good example of Quattro’s experience within Regeneration – taking a scheme from a speculative platform right through to completion. These schemes are often highly immersive. Being involved in the initial viability assessments, of every regeneration scheme, is critical to delivering the maximum potential. We are highly experienced in this area. Our input can include discussions from an early stage regarding potential value engineering, improving financial viability through to the provision of private housing and on larger sites, exploring joint venture options with private developers.
Quattro worked with Merlin to create a partnership with the local council that allowed us to express the vision for the redevelopment programme to key members of South Gloucestershire Council from the very early stages. The progression of the potential development sites and their unit mix has been an ongoing process within which Quattro have played a key role.
- Sector
- Housing
Regeneration - Services
- Partners
-
Bromford (previously Merlin Housing Association)Frazer Garner Associates
Gallery
Solution
A clear partnership between all key members led to a strong working relationship between the Design Team and the Local Planning Authority, resulting in the ability to obtain significant early planning advice quickly and easily. This ensured that 11 planning approvals were received, totalling over 100 units. Out of these, only one application was required to go to planning committee. The flagship scheme, which yielded 39 units has recently been completed with contracts signed for Phase 1, which will see the construction of a further 72 dwellings
Each phase of development was assessed for financial viability, rather than each individual site, meaning that it was possible to significantly improve the viability of Phase I when suggesting the inclusion of a nearby garage site. This amendment added 7 units to the phase and helped to ensure the viability of the scheme.
Consultation has been key to the success of this project. Always an integral part of our process, Consultation, with this project, has been to create a strategy from the ground up, in line with the exact aspirations of the client. This approach ensured that across 11 planning applications in Phase I – we received only two objections.
Quattro has played an integral part in the redevelopment of Merlin’s (now Bromford) existing PRC stock. The range of our work has spanned from initial redevelopment and refurbishment viability assessments, through to creating Sustainability Standards and Standard House-types. Quattro has also been retained through novation for the production of the technical drawings package for Phase I of development.
Having worked for a number of years on several frameworks and many local schemes, we have found that our projects have always benefitted from Quattro's talented and enthusiastic individuals.
Kier, Gloucester
They are always open to suggestions and commit to providing timely and accurate information, giving us the confidence that key dates will be met, whilst ensuring that the design is both affordable and buildable.
Kier, Gloucester
I knew their reputation and skill set from my work with previous employers, to their credit these standards have been maintained. They deliver to program and have the flexibility to respond promptly through out the design and building process.
Housing 21, Birmingham
Quattro's delivered multiple feasibility and options appraisals for Swindon Borough Council. Their early stakeholder consultation and engagement was key to ensure that multiple parties’ joint aspirations were achieved. The 3D visuals and models were extremely helpful in assisting us to communicate the design and supported our applications for funding streams.
Swindon Borough Council