BAM Construction is progressing well with the second phase of the redevelopment and extension of Central House.

The £78 million scheme designed by AHMM for Frasers Property has proven to be highly complex and the original plans for the building have changed significantly as a result of the complexities and challenges the team has uncovered.

Rob Biddle, BAM’s Construction Manager, commented: ‘There were very significant structural risks associated with the scheme and it took all the parties to engage in detail to review how best to resolve these. BAM has conducted over 50 additional intrusive surveys to get to know the building fabric as well as possible. The solution was more radical than originally envisaged but the client and design teams have been very collaborative and Frasers Property has been patient and excellent to work with despite these immense challenges. Our working relationships have been tested and have stood up extremely well.’

The BAM team has commenced piling recently and has been trialling and deploying a raft of leading-edge digital techniques to conduct surveys and create virtual tours for the client team as the building progresses.

At ground level, a generous reception space will connect the building to the surrounding area with a café for building users.

The scheme is targeting Well Gold in addition to a BREEAM Excellent rating.

Rod Stiles, Director of BAM Construction in London, commented: ‘One thing essential to everybody’s success building in London, with its historic and compact structures, is a strong professional working relationship. I’m pleased this has been demonstrated by all parties here in creating a stunning new building behind a retained facade. BAM’s collegiate and collaborative approach allows us to solve problems, innovate and add value as well as make exceptional buildings. That is our DNA and I’m looking forward to seeing it produce yet another outstanding contribution to London’s skyline.’