Francis Barber Educational Redevelopment

OVERVIEW

DELIVERING A MODERN LEARNING ENVIRONMENT FOR FRANCIS BARBER PRU

SITE : Tooting, London

Sector : Education

Client : Department of Education

Architect : Innes Associates

Main Contractor : Baxall Construction

D4S was commissioned to provide structural and civil engineering design for a two-storey administration block and a three-storey teaching block at the Francis Barber Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) in Wandsworth. The project also included improvements to the landscaping and a new multi-use games area (MUGA).

A key challenge was ensuring full compliance with the Department for Education’s requirements, including working within a comprehensive building information modelling (BIM) environment. Additionally, retaining an adjoining sports hall while demolishing the existing school building presented significant structural complexities that required a carefully engineered solution.

INTEGRATED ENGINEERING AND SEAMLESS COLLABORATION

THE SOLUTION

We were involved from the early development phase through to detailed design, covering the below-ground drainage strategy and steel frame structure. To support planning, our civil engineers prepared a flood risk assessment and a drainage strategy, integrating sustainable solutions such as green roofs and permeable paving to manage water runoff effectively.

Meticulous coordination was crucial, given the number of consultants involved. By leveraging BIM and Trimble Connect, we facilitated efficient collaboration between structural, mechanical, electrical and architectural teams. This ensured all design elements were aligned, preventing clashes and mitigating potential discrepancies ahead of construction.