Underpinning of the original structure is two thirds done this week. The formwork used is simple but robust, and is moved from stage to stage in line with the sequence advised by the structural engineers. Its a labour intensive process for the contractor, with the relative depth and small footprint making excavation slow and confined.

While programmed separately, the contractor opted to move on with works to the upper floors, showing that even on the smallest jobs, effort can be spread across the job to maximise efficiency. As a result the second floor stud walls have been rebuilt and are ready for electrical first fix.