Three projects have already been delivered under a framework agreement to modernise the University of the West of England's campuses including a new animation studio for Aardman Animations, creators of Wallace & Gromit.

Under a four-year framework agreement Beard is providing construction services including new build, extension and refurbishment works as part of the University's plans to create a modern learning environment to support its 30,000 students.

Beard's experience in the education sector, ability to project manage a wide range of complex works and deep understanding of working in live university environments has proved invaluable to the University's estates team in planning and executing some technically challenging projects.

Challenges & Solutions

Working in a live environment and phasing the works with the college to ensure minimum of disruption to daily activities and completion before the start of term, required proficient programming.

Construction of temporary walkways through the middle of our site to retain access to cash points and security areas was carefully planned and monitored.

Specially constructed gantry and hoist platforms to get plant to a fourth-storey room resulted in commendation for 'exemplary safety management' by the University.

In addition to an asbestos type III survey, all the workforce were trained in awareness of asbestos.

"We are really pleased to have Beard working for us . ”
Helen Baker , Head of Procurement, UWE