In early 2024, plans to demolish and rebuild two blocks of social housing flats in Barn Close, Bracknell, were approved, following their classification as ‘defective property’ due to being constructed from pre-cast concrete panels (PRC) which developed structural and subsidence issues, as well as deterioration of the external insulation cladding.

By early 2025, managing housing association Abri Homes (previously operating as Silva Homes) had begun work on the project, which creates 25 new homes (15 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom flats) and car parking for 28 vehicles.

Briefed to provide a sub-base replacement solution for the car parking element of the project (a 350 square metre area with a depth of 300mm), Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation [CGU] were able to provide a full solution in the form of Permavoid, with accompanying Permafilter and permeable paving.

Abri Homes Bracknell (Barn Close)

“Our involvement in this project initially began because our Permavoid product was specified,” Russell Summers, Technical Sales Manager at Polypipe CGU, said, “the site’s levels proved to be challenging, with very limited cover, and our solution was able to fulfil the requirements that come as a result of that so, when Jason Thomas [Area Sales Person at merchant Grant & Stone] came to us on behalf of the contractor, B. Jacks, with a brief, we worked our magic, produced a take-off and secured the order within two weeks.

“This was our first time working with B. Jacks, so it was great to be able to lean on the strong relationship that Jason has with the team to fulfil the requirements of the project.”

Jason Thomas, Area Salesperson at Grant & Stone, said: “B. Jacks are one of our biggest customers and we’ve had a very long working relationship, which has only grown stronger over time. They trust us because of our knowledge and our quality product offering and the fact that our relationship with Polypipe CGU is so solid only supports that further.

“The process for this project has been seamless – as soon as we contacted Russell, he took the lead and the project went perfectly. Communication and deliveries have been as good as they can possibly get, which has resulted in a great experience all round.”

Abri Homes Bracknell (Barn Close)

Following delivery of the product to site, the installation team benefitted from some on-site assistance from Russell and Nathan Burns [Specification Sales Manager at Polypipe CGU], who provided a toolbox talk, ensuring the team were confident and correct in the installation of the product.

“Working with Polypipe CGU on this project has been a great experience,” Andy Greenough, Site Foreman at B. Jacks, said, adding that, thanks to the on-site support provided by the Polypipe CGU team, the installation went smoothly with no issues – “we found the product very easy – and quick – to install, and the service and communication from all parties involved has been brilliant so we would definitely recommend Polypipe CGU.”

“Permavoid is the best thing on the market if it’s specified correctly, and this project is a perfect example of that – it’s the only solution that would’ve worked in this scenario, so it’s great that we’ve been able to set the team up for success with our product,” Russell concluded.