JPP led the civil and structural design for 3 industrial units located in Kingston Park, Peterborough to produce a RIBA Stage 3 package. The developer, Firethorn Trust, is constructing the distribution centres, the largest of which is 168m x 122.5m in plan with 15m clear internal storage height and two stories of offices. Internal offices were included in all 3 units, with the third also accommodating a transport office.

The large portalised steel frames and suspended ground floor slabs are all supported by a piled solution. 3D modelling allowed for efficient spatial co-ordination between disciplines throughout the project, as well as enabling clear visualisation of the units through the design process. Clear communication with the architect ensured alterations were identified early and incorporated quickly, even at a later stage.

Key design issues included very poor ground conditions identified by JPP Geotechnical, which require specialised ground remediation to enable external yards and car parking to be construction. Extensive fire boundaries also provided a variety of challenges to the final foundation solution. Other issues included close proximity to a railway line which required close communication Network Rail.

Image credit – Invest in Peterborough