Advent 1, 2 & 3 saw us appointed by Thomasons to support intensive fire-remediation works on three residential buildings in Ancoats, Manchester. Ranging between five and seven storeys and containing 386 apartments, the project involved removing noncompliant cladding and replacing it with a fully fire-safe façade system.

We were commissioned to undertake an extensive review of the facade systems across the three buildings with respect to fire safety. Our work began with analysing the external wall build-ups, cladding and fire and cavity barriers. Through this process, we identified several non-compliant wall types requiring remediation. There were also specific attachments such as deck access walkways and facade interfaces with other building elements which also required remediation.

The complexity of the programme became clear as the variety of wall types emerged. Detailed external wall surveys revealed that metal and timber cladding systems and insulated render system all contained combustible elements that required immediate removal following legislative changes after the Grenfell tragedy. Each element demanded bespoke detailing and technical solutions.

Additional challenges were identified at key interface points. The interaction between the balconies and the building fabric required careful integration with cavity-barrier systems. The courtyard-facing façade also presented water-ingress issues, and services mounted externally on the building created further regulatory complications.