The KKB Group won a competitive tender to deliver a new build residential scheme in the Medway district of Kent. Phase 1 of the development involved enabling works and construction of sixteen luxury 2, 3 & 4-bedroom semi & detached houses set in Ancient Woodland in Lordswood, a suburb of Chatham.
The contract included the enabling and civils works to facilitate the redevelopment of the site which was within designated Ancient Woodland and planning permission required us to install 500 metres of tree protection. The site survey had identified suspected corrugated sheet asbestos (ACMs) within fly-tipped materials on site. Trained operatives wearing protective equipment handpicked all suspect ACMs which were collected and disposed of as hazardous waste. Non-hazardous fly-tipped material was collected and screened.
Following this the site was cleared of existing vegetation under the supervision of the project’s biodiversity consultant, Bioscan UK Limited.
KKB excavated 150mm of topsoil which was stockpiled on the perimeter of the site for re-use in the build phase. Earthworks involved cut, fill and compaction to formation levels and a 450mm piling mat was installed consisting of 6F5 over terram.
The package of infrastructure civils work included installation of new full depth adoptable roads including surface water & foul sewers all to Kent Conty Council and Southern Water Specification, a new substation & associated electrical services installation, other key services installations such as water & telecommunications.
We also carried out plot-specific substructure works such as piling, construction of reinforced concrete ground beams, installation of insulated precast ground floors slabs, external private surface and foul water drainage, all new private services connections and new private roads, driveways and patios to the houses.
Following the enabling works the new build phase commenced in April 2025. This stage delivered a number of aesthetic and environmental features. The site layout ensures all properties are outward facing with views into the woodlands and the detached houses are fitted with large glass windows to provide views into the surrounding woodland.
The design required a high energy efficiency (SAP) rating which was achieved by installing state-of-the-art air source heat pumps throughout. A neutral matt green cladding material was used to reflect the surrounding countryside and all properties have natural timber carports to help reflect the natural environment.
An excellent standard of finish was specified and delivered, exemplified by the premium quality porcelain tile entrance halls.
Following the successful delivery of Phase 1 KKB have been given the go-ahead for an additional 70 units in Phase 2 commencing early 2026.