Nuneaton & Bedworth Council - Passive Fire Prevention

The Challenge

Nuneaton & Bedworth Council appointed Ventro to perform extensive fire-stopping operations across various locations under their jurisdiction. This ongoing partnership, spanning 2.5 years, involved addressing fire prevention needs identified in surveys of communal areas, lofts, and flats in sheltered accommodations. Key tasks included replacing fire doors and diligently checking and rectifying compartmentation across all properties. The project was further complicated by working during the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitating heightened PPE and sanitary provisions. Additionally, the team frequently encountered asbestos issues on sites, requiring clearance by the Council before work could continue. The presence of a Waking Watch system on all properties at the project's outset imposed a limited timeframe for completion.

The Solution

Ventro's approach for Nuneaton & Bedworth Council was built on proven efficacy and strong collaboration. Works were procured through the Communities and Housing Investment Consortium Limited (CHIC) Framework, providing the client with confidence in Ventro's ability to deliver to an exacting standard. Ventro assigned a designated project team, including a Project Manager, a fire-stopping team, a fire safety consultant dedicated to the area, and a Quantity Surveyor. This team collaborated closely with the council to ensure all resident and client requirements were fulfilled, which has fostered a consistently high standard of client relations.

To navigate the challenges of the pandemic, Ventro staff consistently wore the required PPE and implemented increased sanitary provisions across all sites. When asbestos issues arose, the project team actively tackled them by coordinating with the Council for necessary clearance. Ventro collaborated with the client to secure access to any flats that required work, and if access was initially denied, the client coordinated with residents to schedule a convenient time. Ventro also demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by registering with the Go Green Scheme, aiming to recycle as much waste as possible and reduce its carbon footprint.

The Results

Ventro's dedicated and responsive partnership yielded significant results for Nuneaton & Bedworth Council:

• Comprehensive Compliance: All sites were completed to conform with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and Building Regulations - Approved Document B, providing peace of mind for the client regarding their buildings' compliance.
  
  
• Accelerated Progress & Exceeded Expectations: Ventro went beyond the client's expectations by hitting challenging target completions, which led to the Council commissioning Ventro for additional fire safety works. The fire-stopping works have been progressing at an excellent rate.
  
  
• Enhanced Client & Resident Relations: Having a dedicated project team ensured a high standard of client relations. Site staff were particularly mindful and accommodating of residents, addressing all questions and queries, which ensured residents remained happy throughout the process.
  
  
• Commitment to Sustainability: Ventro's registration with the Go Green Scheme demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices, reducing the carbon footprint of the works and aligning with broader environmental goals.
  
  
• Long-term Partnership: The collaborative approach and successful outcomes have significantly strengthened Ventro's relationship with the client, proving their value over 5 years of consistent work.