Chelmsford New Build Flats

New Build Residential Flats

This project involved the development of a residential site in Chelmsford with planning permission for new-build flats. Simple-Build was appointed to deliver full structural engineering design, provide remedial specifications addressing contractor defects, and undertake construction-stage supervision through to completion.

The scheme required careful coordination between structural design, on-site problem solving, and quality control to ensure the development achieved both regulatory compliance and long-term structural integrity.

Project Overview

The development comprised the construction of multiple new residential flats on a cleared site with existing planning consent. The structural form incorporated load-bearing masonry, structural steel framing, engineered timber floor systems, and rooflight-integrated pitched roof construction to create bright, modern internal spaces.

During construction, several workmanship and detailing issues were identified, requiring technical intervention and remedial design to protect the integrity of the structure and maintain programme certainty.

Structural Engineering Scope

Simple-Build provided:

• Full structural design of foundations, superstructure, and roof structure

• Steel frame design for primary load transfer and lateral stability

• Timber floor and roof design including engineered joist systems

• Structural detailing for connections, bearing arrangements, and load paths

• Coordination with architectural and Building Regulations requirements

• Particular attention was given to ensuring structural robustness, compliance with Eurocodes, and efficient buildability for the contractor.

Remedial Specifications & Contractor Defects

During construction, defects and inconsistencies were identified, including issues relating to workmanship, structural detailing, and sequencing.

Simple-Build:

• Undertook site inspections to assess structural compliance

• Produced remedial structural specifications

• Designed corrective strengthening measures where required

• Ensured all works met Building Regulations and structural performance standards

• Early identification and technical resolution prevented potential long-term performance issues and mitigated programme risk.

Construction Supervision

Ongoing structural supervision was provided to:

• Verify correct installation of steelwork and timber systems

• Inspect bearing conditions and structural connections

• Ensure compliance with design intent

• Monitor remedial works implementation

• This active involvement ensured that construction quality aligned with the approved structural design and regulatory standards.

Outcome

Structural approvals achieved

Construction defects identified and resolved

Development completed successfully

Delivery of high-quality residential flats

This project demonstrates Simple-Build’s capability not only in structural design but also in on-site technical oversight, remedial engineering, and safeguarding structural integrity throughout the construction process.