Building good community relations has been a huge consideration for Seddon Construction Ltd

• Prior to the start of the project, residents were invited to an open evening to discuss how the site would run the project to ensure no-one would be disturbed.
• The site ensured regular communication with residents through monthly newsletters, monthly meetings with residents, issuing feedback forms and the positioning of information boards on the hoarding.
• The impact on the local residents was minimised by ensuring all trades parked onsite at all times, delivery schedules were set up to avoid school times and a gatemen and a deliveries manager were hired for the duration of the project.

As the project started during bird ‘nesting season’ and because there were many storm drains situated around the site, the following measures were adopted:

• An ecologist was hired to attend the site when removing bushes, shrubs and trees;
• A full report was requested to identify bats, birds, newts or other wildlife residing on the site;
• Three bat boxes, five bird boxes and a bug’s hotel were installed;
• The base of all perimeter hedges were removed to allow easy access for hedgehogs;
• A drainage protection plan was created to ensure no hazardous waste went into the water course; all drains were checked on a weekly basis and protected accordingly.

• Health and safety awards and prizes were used as an incentive for workforce contributions.

• The site created a library in the canteen and provided puzzles and a TV corner for the workforce.
• Free fruit, water and healthy breakfasts were supplied.
• A personal trainer was provided free of charge, to give operatives advice on healthy eating.
• A car sharing scheme and a ‘walk to work’ day were implemented on-site.
• A team building meeting was held on Fridays along with health and safety private discussions if required.
• Monthly meetings were held with site personnel to insure all operatives were happy and tasks were completed efficiently.
• The site manager produced an informative DVD detailing every aspect of the site in relation to the Scheme. This was freely given out to site visitors and any other interested parties, as well as being uploaded to YouTube (see below).