DATE OF REPORT:- 8th July 2008
REPORT TO THE HOUSING MINISTER
THE CEDARS REFURBISHMENT
PROPOSED NON ESSENTIAL VARIATION
IN COMPLIANCE WITH FINANCIAL DIRECTION 5.6 PARA 5.8.19
During the initial design stages to refurbish The Cedars, various options had been considered with regards to the wall finishes within the communal areas. These are currently decorated with ‘artex’ which is a material which contains asbestos.
Various options had already been investigated in consultation with Health & Safety Executive to identify the safest method of dealing with this product. It was decided to leave the ‘artex’ in situ.
A new method of dealing with the artex has been identified encapsulating it by effectively plastering over the ‘artex’ leaving an ‘as new’ surface for decoration.
It has also been possible to identify a replacement for the outdated flat entrance doors which enhance fire proofing and add increased levels of security.
The Department wishes to add these improvements to the current refurbishment works for the costs listed below.
Works to plaster walls to landings and lobby to refuse chute £68,164.29
Work to plaster walls to staircase £12,040.00
Replace entrance doors to Flats £49,251.66
Fireproofing to fixed lights over 58 doors £4,460.00
Total £133,915.95
The cost of all of these works can be met from the savings already achieved in the contract, specifically from the procurement of the new lift systems, which have come in significantly below estimate.
Recommendation
The Minister authorised the Non Essential Variations in accordance with Financial Direction 5.6 Para 5.8.19 and authorised the Director of Estate Services to sign the necessary instruction on his behalf.
Report drafted by: S HUTTON Date: 8th July 2008
Report Approved by: C MAVITY Date: 10th July 2008