Specialised External Works and Landscaping in a Secure Residential Setting

Executive Summary

We delivered a comprehensive programme of external works at Hafan Children’s Home on behalf of Carmarthenshire County Council, managing complex landscaping and fencing tasks within a secure, occupied environment. By prioritising safeguarding and site security, we successfully modernised the facility’s grounds and improved accessibility while maintaining zero disruption to the vulnerable young residents.

About the Client

Carmarthenshire County Council is a primary client for whom we have completed numerous external works schemes across their social housing and residential estate. Hafan Children’s Home is a secure residential facility in Carmarthen that provides a safe setting for vulnerable young people, requiring the highest standards of governance and delivery.

The Challenge

The project required the delivery of multiple external work elements within a high-security, occupied environment.

Safeguarding and Security: The primary challenge was ensuring the absolute safety and segregation of vulnerable residents from the construction works.

Environmental Conditions: Work was carried out during a period of challenging weather and varied ground conditions, which threatened to impact the programme and the quality of the finish.

Operational Continuity: The facility remained fully operational 24/7, meaning all noise, dust, and access had to be meticulously controlled to avoid distressing the residents.

The Solution

We implemented a structured, multi-phased approach that focused on both structural longevity and aesthetic improvement.

Sustainable Infrastructure: We replaced traditional concrete paving slabs with a sustainable Eco-grid stone footpath system to improve drainage and long-term performance.

High-Quality Materials: We utilised larch timber for the construction of bespoke planters, chosen for its natural durability and visual appeal, and repaired the perimeter using robust hit-and-miss fencing with concrete posts and gravel boards.

Horticultural Enhancement: The solution included a full soft landscaping package, including vegetation clearance, the importation of high-quality topsoil, and the planting of new shrubs, hedging, and trees.

The Implementation

Site Segregation: Before works commenced, we installed temporary Heras fencing to fully secure the construction zone. These controls were checked daily and adjusted to ensure no unauthorised access was possible.

Collaborative Coordination: We maintained daily contact with Carmarthenshire County Council officers and on-site staff to coordinate access and agree on sequencing that worked around the facility's daily routines.

Safeguarding Protocol: All operatives were briefed on the specific safeguarding requirements of the site. We maintained a calm, non-confrontational approach to resident interaction, with a clear escalation route to Council contacts for any concerns.

Landscaping Execution: Following the construction of the larch planters and Eco-grid paths, we applied a thick layer of mulch to all planting areas and raised beds to suppress weeds and retain moisture, ensuring the long-term health of the new greenery.

Additional Projects and Challenges

The varied ground conditions required an adaptable approach to the footpath installation. Upon lifting the existing concrete paving slabs, we identified areas of poor subsoil. We managed this by adjusting the sub-base depth before installing the Eco-grid, ensuring the final path was stable and level. Furthermore, the planting programme was carefully sequenced to coincide with weather breaks, ensuring that topsoil and mulch were laid without causing unnecessary mess or runoff within the secure unit.

The Results

Safety and Security: The project was completed with zero safeguarding incidents or security breaches.

Project Delivery: Works were delivered strictly to the agreed programme and specification, receiving final sign-off from Carmarthenshire County Council.

Functional Improvement: The transition from paving slabs to Eco-grid significantly improved site drainage and reduced trip hazards, while the new fencing and larch planters enhanced the site’s security and aesthetics.

Minimal Disruption: The facility continued its vital work without interruption, proving our ability to manage complex contracts in sensitive housing environments.

Lessons Learned

The project reinforced the necessity of robust temporary security measures and the value of flexible sequencing when faced with adverse weather. Most importantly, it highlighted that clear escalation routes and close collaboration with site staff are the most effective ways to manage risk in sensitive residential settings.