The design and build stages of a project can be, potentially, the most bumpy. Alliance Leisure business development managers James Foley and Julia Goddard share how they helped smooth the way for clients in Doncaster and Cwmbran

How is the process managed?
From the start, Alliance works to develop the scheme concepts affordably and innovatively with the client and our property consultants Savernake Property, and other contractors. This is very different to other approaches where design and build outcomes can’t be delivered because only one contractor was involved at the start.

How does the design and build process begin?
Alliance has a unique approach and works with clients from the start and at every step until the project is delivered successfully. As Business Development Manager this involves establishing the project is viable before thinking about how that concept might look. We’ll look to increase participation by adapting, reinvigorating or in cases such as Adwick Leisure Centre in Doncaster, totally transforming an underutilised space to create something different but relevant to users.

What was the brief a Adwick? Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust (DCLT) wanted to explore options for increasing fitness provision at the site and improving the overall centre offering – looking at the facility catchment and competition – such as the introduction of new academy sports hall facilities. Our design team created a journey through the site with three distinct areas which all feel like they belong. Where the sports hall used to be, there is a new ‘family adventure’ area at ground level, with ten pin bowling, café, bar and play facilities. Upstairs there is a newly formed mezzanine ‘fitness’ area, with a space for large scale fitness fitted out by DCLT, along with studio provision and changing rooms, and the modernised reception leads through to the pool.

What about changes at the design and build stages?
Alliance works with the client to create a vision and design the project. As the build commences the vision on paper or a 3D model can look different to the real thing. We can adapt the design and change the build while ensuring that the total project cost is still maintained.

How are challenges along the way overcome?
No build project ever runs perfectly smoothly, but commissioning surveys and expertise at the start helps us avoid risks where possible. With issues that would normally fall outside of our remit, we work with the client to see how we could cost effectively integrate these into the project. For instance at Adwick Leisure Centre, putting in new ten pin bowling, 100 stations of gym equipment and new infrastructure will add power requirements to the site. Instead of paying for an expensive new supply, we gave Doncaster Leisure Trust the option to work creatively with our team to use energy saving techniques, avoiding unnecessary cost and keeping energy performance within existing limits.

What marks the end of the design and build process?
The end of the process for Alliance doesn’t stop when the build is complete. We then ensure a robust handover takes place and work with partners to train staff to operate elements, such as the bowling at Adwick. We work hard to resolve late snags, and are proud that our repeat project rate with clients is high – a testament to us having clients’ interests as our number one priority.