Houndshill Shopping Centre – Slate Roof Replacement

Project Overview

Slate Roof Replacement

Location: Houndshill Shopping Centre, Blackpool (Management Office Roof)

Duration: 12 Weeks

Client: Blackpool Council

Project Highlights

The Houndshill Shopping Centre Management Office Roof Replacement project involved the complete renewal of the existing roof covering to address persistent water ingress, deterioration of the roof structure, and associated maintenance issues. The scheme delivered a heritage-compliant slate roofing system incorporating new breathable underlay, treated battens, lead flashings and rainwater goods, together with repairs to external masonry and render.

Additional works included asbestos removal, structural investigations and drainage improvements, ensuring a comprehensive and long-term solution. The completed project has enhanced the performance and resilience of the management office while protecting a key operational asset within the shopping centre estate.

The Challenge

The existing roof had reached the end of its service life, with failing slates, defective leadwork and widespread water ingress causing ongoing maintenance concerns. The works required extensive high-level access arrangements, including scaffolding and edge protection, with one elevation overlooking a busy public high street and incorporating a four-storey drop.

Further challenges arose following the discovery of asbestos-containing materials within the roof build-up, requiring licensed removal before construction works could commence. During the programme, a structurally unstable gable-end chimney was also identified, necessitating a design review and scope adjustment. All works were undertaken within a live operational environment and in an exposed coastal location, requiring careful planning and weather protection throughout the project.

Our Solution

Early involvement enabled us to develop a detailed delivery strategy that accounted for the operational requirements of the shopping centre and the technical complexities of the project. Utilising drone survey technology, we captured detailed information on the existing roof, including bespoke terracotta features, intricate leadwork and historic cast-iron rainwater systems. This allowed the preparation of a comprehensive scope of works and a robust tender package.

Specialist contractors and consultants were engaged at an early stage to address access, health and safety, and asbestos management requirements. Through proactive stakeholder engagement and clear communication, we ensured all parties understood the procurement and delivery process. When the unstable chimney was identified, our change control procedures enabled a swift response, facilitating its safe removal and capping while maintaining programme certainty and eliminating a future maintenance liability.

The Outcome

The project was delivered safely, on programme and within the approved budget, with no incidents, defects or outstanding actions at completion. The new roofing system provides a durable, heritage-sensitive solution that permanently resolves the building’s water ingress issues and is supported by a 25-year performance guarantee.

Our proactive approach also created opportunities to add further value during the works. By maximising the benefits of the temporary access arrangements, additional repairs to external façades and window elements were incorporated, addressing maintenance issues that had previously been difficult to access. The client commended the team’s communication, project control and commitment to achieving the best possible long-term outcome for the estate.