GIR CONSTRUCTION SOLUTIONS LTD
fresh air into the lobbies and prevents smoke from accumulating in escape routes, ensuring a safe exit during emergencies. Aside from fire safety, a major challenge was securing planning permission. Chalk says the site initially had permission for three additional flats. “We saw an opportunity to optimise the space and proposed adding a fourth unit, but the local planning authority rejected the application. “We had to go through a rigorous reapplication process, countering each objection with evidence and justification. Eventually, we got the fourth flat approved, but it was a long and frustrating process.” Additionally, Chalk says many building control surveyors are leaving the industry instead of requalifying as required by the new building safety regulations. “Over the course of this project, two surveyors assigned to us left the industry, forcing us to restart reviews and approvals multiple times. “Imagine somebody with 30 years of experience inspecting buildings, someone who really knows what they’re talking about, who now has to produce a 300-page report to prove that they are able to certify a building. So surveyors are dropping out, left and right.” Lessons learnt One of the key takeaways from this project, Chalk says, was understanding the importance of detailed planning and design from the outset. With requirements in the Building Safety Act 2022 to maintain a ‘golden thread’
space is scarce. London has an enormous demand for housing, but land is extremely limited. You can’t just buy a vacant plot in central London – they’re practically nonexistent. So, we have to think differently about how we build. “It’s about repurposing existing buildings or extending them backwards, sidewards, upwards, downwards, in whichever way you can to maximise space while respecting residents. That’s what makes it inspiring to me.” Chalk’s parting advice to fellow FMB members is to be observant, aware and creative. “Walk down the street, see what has been built, and check local planning portals to understand how those projects got permission. If something similar has been done nearby, you have a strong case to argue for your own project. “Be proactive. Seek pre- application advice from your local council. Understand the potential roadblocks before you submit a full application. Most importantly, embrace innovative solutions – whether it’s in planning, fire safety, or design – to unlock new possibilities for development.”
of information – meaning approvals, design decisions and evidence need to be documented and trackable – Chalk says being fastidious about the plan and design stages is essential. “Historically, construction followed a ‘design-and-build’ approach, where final details could be adjusted as work progressed. However, new regulations, particularly for buildings over 18 metres, require approvals at multiple stages before construction can even begin. Even though our project wasn’t over 18 metres, we faced similar scrutiny. “My advice? Get everything in writing. Avoid verbal agreements. Invest in thorough
design work upfront, even if it delays the project – it will save you time and money later by preventing you from having to jump over any unexpected regulatory hurdles.” Spaces that inspire The motto of Chalk’s business is ‘Building Inspiring Spaces’, and this project, he says, fits the bill. “It’s about creating new opportunities in places where
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Master Builder
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