York Street and Swallow Street public realm improvements
VolkerHighways recently completed public realm improvement works on the historic York Street and Swallow Street in Bath city centre. The £800,000 project was delivered on behalf of Bath and North East Somerset Council.
Having received National Heritage Lottery funding to expand the Roman Baths and create an educational centre in the heart of Bath, the council appointed VolkerHighways to carry out refurbishments and upgrades to the roads in the centre of this historical area, situated close to the famous Roman Baths, the Abbey and the Thermae Spa.
The project was completed in two phases, to respond to local business concerns about the impact of construction on York Street trading during busy periods. Works on Swallow Street took place between June 2021 and August 2021 and works in York Street from January 2022 to May 2022.
The project involved the removal of the existing asphalt, raising the level of the surface to create an even layer, and resurfacing the roads and footways with high-quality natural stone, in keeping with the landscape. The team has also completed works inspecting pit covers and frames, as well as kerbstones and replacing those as required.
The team also worked with sister business unit, VolkerLaser, to install a waterproof membrane to provide a watertight environment for the newly opened World Heritage Centre.
The project went through a rigorous Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) phase where the combined engineering strength of both VolkerHighways and VolkerLaser provided Bath and North East Somerset Council with sound advice on the design of the scheme. As the roads are heavily populated with statutory services and a major culvert, VolkerHighways liaised closely with these providers to ensure the protection of their assets.
Jerry Pert, operations director for VolkerHighways, said: “This is another successful project, showcasing the effective collaboration between VolkerHighways, sister business unit, VolkerLaser, and client, Bath and North East Somerset Council. We hope these improvement works will bring more visitors to the area, where they can enjoy the new World Heritage Centre, finding out why Bath is so special, and benefit from the expanded Roman Baths.”