Construct - Issue 49

its Surface Transport Infrastructure Construction (STIC) framework contract with TfL in 2021. “This is one of the more complicated jobs we’ve had on the framework to date,” says FM Conway contracts manager Matt Holland. “It’s been a success because there’s been such good collaboration between all parties.” The bulk of the work was on Kingston Road, where the extra lane has been added on the northbound side and footways have been changed on both sides and in the central reserve to create more space for cyclists and pedestrians. But the FM Conway teams also worked on the roundabout itself, changing the kerb line, upgrading substandard parapets, infilling two subways with lightweight foam concrete and upgrading the surface-level light-controlled crossings. Challenges included programming the works to minimise disruption, coordinating with the contractor building the access into the new housing development, and ensuring there was no impact on the smooth running of the A3. Regular meetings with key stakeholders were critical to the project’s success, says Matt: “TfL had instigated coordination meetings with the housing

developer and local authorities two years before we got onto site in April 2023. We joined those meetings six months before we started work. There are many programme risks when you have interfaces with other parties, so it was really helpful that the meetings were already set up.” Work started on the southbound side of Kingston Road, with the intention of building the new lane on the northbound side next. But delays with utility companies and negotiations over land acquisition meant that the work had to be reprogrammed to be done in small sections, rather than all in one go. “It was challenging at times where the works areas were small, because of the size of machines and the number of operatives working in a small area,” explains FM Conway’s site agent Philip Yau. TfL’s drive to use the project as a catalyst for environmental improvements resulted in sustainable drainage solutions (SuDS) being installed throughout the works to capture surface water run-off. These included permeable paving for footways and cycleways, rain gardens and tree pits. u

FACTS Project Tolworth Roundabout Improvements Client Transport for London Contract period 2023 - 2024 FM Conway divisions - Major Projects - Surfacing - Lighting - Traffic Management - Water and Drainage Management - Aggregates & Asphalt - Consultancy

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