Knowl Park House – Build update July 2023
Here’s the latest from our new dementia day care build in Mirfield.
What’s been happening?
Following on from the tarmac being laid last month, a new hoarding is now in place.
The roof sheets are all in place and contractors have started work on tiling. The battens are currently being installed that will provide the fixing point for the tiles.
Stonework (masonry) for the walls has started as has the installation of the windows and curtain walling. Curtain walling is a non-structural cladding system that is used for the external walls of a building and is usually made up of glazed panels.
Keeping up appearances
As well as building our new dementia day care facilities, the contractors also dipped into some community work. The contractors joined volunteers from Mirfield in Bloom to help paint the Hopton Road Bridge.
Maisy Swift, Josie Hughes and Mel Shaw all helped to paint the bridge which will help improve the appearance of the area. The judging takes place this month and the final decision takes place in September on whether Mirfield can retain the prestigious best large town title. To support the bid, contractors have made sure the Knowl Park House site entrance is tidy. They have also mowed the grass in front of the site, helping to keep up appearances along Crowlees Road. Good luck to Mirfield in Bloom!
Site safety
During the summer months with long, light evenings, we would like to remind everyone that construction sites are dangerous places. Access onto them is strictly forbidden for unauthorised personnel. Unfortunately, over the years there have been many tragic accidents when people have climbed over security fences onto site, unaware of all the potential dangers.
Next up…
We’ve got some technical stuff coming up next as contractors will start work on the ‘first fix’ mechanical and electrical installation.
First fix is all the items that are installed before the plastering takes place i.e. the drainage, pipes and wiring that won’t be visible once the building is complete. Then come the internal partitions and screeding the floors. Screed is a thin layer of material that is placed on top of a concrete subfloor, usually consisting of cement and sharp sand or other coarse aggregates. This layer will then be covered with final floor finishes.
Community engagement
And finally, Tilbury Douglas are continuing their great work with our local schools as they have had two students visit for work experience placements – one from The Mirfield Free Grammar School and one from Upper Batley High School. They are taking on another two placements from Kirklees College in September.
They also attended the careers fair at Castle Hall Academy, just up the road from the site. Megan, a trainee site engineer, attending to speak to students about careers in the construction industry. This follows on from students from Castle Hall Academy visiting the site last month.
Next blog update: Knowl Park House – build update August 2023
Previous blog update: Knowl Park House – build update May 2023