Macclesfield Learning Zone

Interserve’s design and construction of part of the new Macclesfield Learning Zone (MLZ) in conjunction with other partners has delivered a 21st Century learning campus for the area that benefits the whole community and provides a win-win solution to each of the partner institutions.

Interserve’s share of the MLZ project includes two new buildings – the LZ6 sixth form building and the new college as well as remodelling and refurbishment of the existing learning resource centre to create the European Centre for Aeronautical Training (ECAT) Interserve’s balance of skills, leadership, processes and organisation allowed a complex project, within a live campus environment, to be completed on time and within budget.

Achievements

Close liaison within the construction team, with multiple end clients and with local people were all vital elements of the project’s success. This was facilitated by the MLZ Communications Committee of which Interserve was a key member, along with careful scheduling of construction, demolition and deliveries to minimise disruption.

Sustainability has been a key element in the design of the new buildings, which include recycled timber, natural ventilation and high efficiency building services plant. All spoil from demolition work was retained within the site, while the use of low percussive piling reduced noise levels.

Innovative techniques to meet the project deadlines included the use of a Metsec solution for the inner leaf of external walls, allowing internal trades to start work before the outer skin was completed.

Interserve also provided a temporary car park on the site of the existing football pitch using a recycled plastic eco-grid system, which will remain in place after project completion to improve drainage.