Lutterworth Unit 4
Project Overview
Lutterworth Unit 4
Location: Lutterworth, United Kingdom
Duration: 40 weeks
Client: Mulberry Commercial Developments
Project Highlights
Lutterworth Unit 4 is a 44,000 sq ft Class A speculative B2/B8 industrial warehouse development incorporating on-site renewable energy generation, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and BREEAM Excellent accreditation. Following contractor appointment by the client, we were engaged as Employer’s Agent and Cost Manager, taking responsibility for contract compilation, post-contract cost management and contract administration.
The Challenge
The scheme was delivered on a constrained brownfield site requiring remediation and ground improvement before construction could begin. The works also involved diverting live drainage serving neighbouring properties and widening and resurfacing a shared access road.
Site logistics were particularly challenging. The development occupied the full planning boundary, leaving little room for construction operations, while two shared access points on a one-way system had to remain operational throughout the project due to neighbouring ownership interests. Prolonged periods of poor weather during the autumn earthworks phase also caused deterioration of the capping layer, creating a risk to programme, ground performance and remediation warranties.
Our Solution
We played a key role in the final negotiation of contractor particulars and provisional sums, reducing employer risk and strengthening commercial certainty before contract execution. Working closely with both contracting parties, we refined the developer’s specification to remove ambiguity and improve deliverability, while incorporating bespoke change management and handover procedures into the contract documents to support tight post-contract cost control.
To address the site’s logistical constraints, we collaborated with the client and contractor to develop robust construction sequencing, risk mitigation measures and contingency plans. Early engagement with neighbouring occupiers helped minimise disruption and maintain access throughout the works.
Recognising the potential risks associated with drainage and the remediated ground, we identified concerns early and recommended temporary surface water management measures and adjustments to site logistics. Following adverse weather conditions, we coordinated with the engineer and contractor to remove affected capping materials and undertake additional testing of the remediated ground. This verified compliance with the performance specification, maintained the remediation warranty and provided assurance to both the engineer and employer.
The Outcome
Practical Completion has now been achieved, with the building attaining BREEAM Excellent accreditation and generating strong occupier interest. Despite challenging ground conditions, restrictive site logistics and adverse weather, the project was delivered through effective contract administration, proactive risk management and close stakeholder collaboration.
The completed development provides a high-quality, sustainable industrial asset while maintaining programme certainty and cost control throughout delivery. The agreed handover and soft landings processes continue to support a smooth transition into occupation and long-term operational performance.
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