fmb.org.uk
Sponsor:
Bibby Financial Services is one of the UK’s largest independent funding providers. We’ve been supporting SMEs for 40+ years and we’re committed to playing our part in enabling the construction sector to thrive and grow. As the first independent funder to offer finance specifically for construction businesses, we have an unrivalled understanding of the market and experience in 80+ trades. We’ve funded thousands of firms and recognise the challenges they face that impact cashflow and prevent growth. Our Construction Finance solution releases the cash that’s tied up in applications for payment (certified and uncertified) and invoices, enabling you to place orders earlier, pay suppliers upfront and negotiate better terms. We can also help you acquire equipment through our Leasing, Hire Purchase and Re-financing solutions. And, combining our facilities with our Bad Debt Protection helps mitigate the impact of customer non-payment. We have a specialist construction team and dedicated relationship managers, so you’ll know who in the team to call, not just a number. Rated Excellent on Trustpilot, you can be confident you’re working with an experienced, reliable partner who really cares.
Empty since 2006 with no prospect of secure redevelopment funding under private ownership, the six-storey building was purchased by Swansea Council in 2020. The vision was to transform it into a state- of-the-art Grade A flexible office and event space, while retaining its iconic features. Working closely with the council’s appointed conversion architect specialist, the team undertook a meticulous restoration, reconfiguration, and refurbishment. This included carefully stripping out fixtures, addressing the absence of a functioning roof, and resolving issues caused by a flooded basement to ensure a safe environment before construction could proceed. The project faced significant challenges, including disruptions to material supply and resources during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Ukraine war, and the cost of living crisis. Overcoming these obstacles required determination, close collaboration, and adaptability from all parties involved. Strong stakeholder relationships were maintained through contract framework coordination workshops and housekeeping meetings attended by the design team, client, and hosted by the client’s agent (TC Consult). These sessions were vital for effective stakeholder mapping and establishing collaborative protocols for the duration of the contract. The Palace Theatre’s transformation is a testament to the combined expertise and commitment of the client, design, and delivery teams. The result is a vibrant, flexible venue, with the capacity to revert to theatre use if required.
We’re delighted to sponsor the Commercial or Public Sector Project award and wish all of the finalists a huge congratulations.
21
2025 Master Builder Awards
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