Case Study

Project Overview:

Location: Sandling Park, Sandling Lane, Penenden Heath, Maidstone, ME14 2NY

Project Duration: 50 Weeks

Scope of Work: Provision of Principal Contractor services, including the design, development, supply, and installation of external cladding, render, and decking systems across 3 large live residential blocks.

Project Description:

The Sandling Lane project in Maidstone was delivered for Barratt Developments PLC and involved the comprehensive remediation of the building external envelope.

The works included the removal of existing combustible façade elements such as timber cladding, render systems, decking, and metal cladding, together with associated combustible sub-grids and insulation.

These systems were replaced with fully non-combustible solutions incorporating compliant sub-grids, fire barriers, insulation, and high-quality finishes including cedar click panels, render systems, aluminium decking, and metal cladding.

The completed works ensure full compliance with current fire safety regulations while enhancing the overall appearance and performance of the development.

Services Provided:

External Works:

• Timber Cladding Removal and Replacement: Removal of existing timber cladding, combustible timber framework, and PIR insulation, followed by installation of a new non-combustible system including sub-grid, fire breaks, insulation, and cedar click panels.
• Render System Replacement: Removal of existing render systems to walls and soffits, including PIR insulation, and replacement with a non-combustible fully filled insulation system and new render finish.
• Decking Replacement: Removal of existing timber decking panels and installation of a compliant non-combustible aluminium decking system.
• Metal Cladding System Replacement: Removal of existing metal cladding and combustible sub-grid systems, with installation of a new compliant sub-grid and replacement metal cladding panels around stair cores.

Challenges Faced:

The project was delivered within a live residential environment with residents in occupation, requiring careful coordination to ensure safety and minimise disruption.

Programme management was further challenged by adverse weather conditions, necessitating flexible sequencing and robust planning. In parallel, strict document control and coordination were maintained to achieve and uphold the Golden Thread of information throughout the project lifecycle.

Results:

Through close collaboration between DMC Walling and Barratt Developments, the project successfully delivered high-quality, visually enhanced remediated buildings. The completed works fully comply with EWS1 requirements and the latest fire safety regulations, significantly improving building safety while adding long-term value to the local area.

RLO:

When I first came onto the Sandling Park project, I wasn’t sure what to expect, as it was my first time working on a project of this size. Knocking on doors to arrange the initial internal surveys was a little nerve-wracking, but the residents were incredibly welcoming, which quickly put me at ease. It was clear from the start that this wasn’t just a site — it was people’s homes.

Because of the works, keeping residents informed was really important. I made sure regular updates were shared so residents knew what to expect and felt comfortable living around the works, while still following site rules. The site team took care in leaving the site tidy at the end of each day, always mindful that residents were living there.

There were times when unforeseen issues made expectations harder to manage, but open communication from DMC helped keep residents reassured and understanding. I received lots of positive feedback about how respectful and helpful the team were, and we often went beyond our scope to support residents where we could, from helping with rubbish to moving garden furniture or fixing small issues.

This project reinforced my belief that our work goes beyond the structure and safety of the building. It is equally about the people who live there and the relationships we build along the way. Sandling Park was not only a successful project in terms of delivery, but also a rewarding experience in supporting and engaging with the residents who call it home