PCE Ltd. delivered a multi-functional building for Volkswagen, which is a 15,468m2 structure. It is a suspended four-storey facility with a service centre at ground floor, a showroom at first and second floors, offices, as well as 7300m² of car parking over four suspended levels.
PCE Ltd. worked with main contractor Longcross to win the project with an alternative tender by proposing a precast solution. This solution utilized innovative GT slabs, box units for stair and lift cores, removed a central row of columns, reduced lorry loads, reduced operatives on site, incorporated architectural circular white columns and delivered the project earlier. The project was constructed within a merely 18-week on-site programme.
The use of 3-D modelling during design and tight production control avoided clashes and erection delays. The building incorporates 230m2 ‘living wall’ which is irrigated using on-site rainwater collection and contributes to BREEAM excellent rating and an ‘A’ energy performance rating.
Nickie Brown, managing director of PCE Ltd. said “This project is an example of what can be achieved using off-site concrete construction techniques together with BIM and experienced trained personnel.”