Revitalising Heritage in a Live Environment
Westminster Kingsway College
Victoria Centre Refurbishment
Westminster Kingsway College, renowned for its further and higher education programs in the catering sector, embarked on a significant redevelopment of its Grade II*-listed building on Vincent Square. Following a successful Phase 1 upgrade in 2010, Phase 2 focused on refurbishing and remodelling the existing structure while adhering to planning and listed building consents.
This phase involved creating a new top-lit student social space within the former courtyard and refurbishing internal areas to establish modern teaching kitchens, classrooms, and staff facilities. The project featured the construction of a lightweight steel-framed atrium that infilled a central light well, enhancing natural light and connectivity within the building. All work was executed in phases over 15 months, with the building fully occupied throughout.
The project faced several challenges, including the complex phased refurbishment of a listed building and the late appointment of 3PM to the team to replace another project manager, which necessitated the reintroduction of structured project management. Change control measures had not been implemented since Stage D, posing a risk of scope creep and cost overruns. Additionally, the College was committed to minimising disruption to neighbouring properties, particularly an adjacent primary school.
Successful outcomes included the development of a comprehensive Project Execution Plan, robust change control, and regular governance reporting, ensuring the project’s smooth progression within the constraints of a sensitive environment.
Victoria Centre Refurbishment
Westminster Kingsway College, renowned for its further and higher education programs in the catering sector, embarked on a significant redevelopment of its Grade II*-listed building on Vincent Square. Following a successful Phase 1 upgrade in 2010, Phase 2 focused on refurbishing and remodelling the existing structure while adhering to planning and listed building consents.
This phase involved creating a new top-lit student social space within the former courtyard and refurbishing internal areas to establish modern teaching kitchens, classrooms, and staff facilities. The project featured the construction of a lightweight steel-framed atrium that infilled a central light well, enhancing natural light and connectivity within the building. All work was executed in phases over 15 months, with the building fully occupied throughout.
The project faced several challenges, including the complex phased refurbishment of a listed building and the late appointment of 3PM to the team to replace another project manager, which necessitated the reintroduction of structured project management. Change control measures had not been implemented since Stage D, posing a risk of scope creep and cost overruns. Additionally, the College was committed to minimising disruption to neighbouring properties, particularly an adjacent primary school.
Successful outcomes included the development of a comprehensive Project Execution Plan, robust change control, and regular governance reporting, ensuring the project’s smooth progression within the constraints of a sensitive environment.