Independent Devon Contractors located in Clyst St Mary, Exeter has successfully completed a re-roofing project for the technical textile specialists Heathcoat Fabrics. The new roof was installed for the local manufacturer to facilitate the addition of new equipment currently prohibited by the low existing roofline. This will enable Heathcoat Fabrics to expand and meet the needs of their growing product range.

Established in 1946, Devon Contractors has built on its long-standing reputation for delivering high-quality buildings. The firm carries out minor and major works, including new-builds across a range of sectors up to a value of c.12million, working primarily across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset.

Heathcoat Fabrics specialises in the design and development of technical textiles. The Tiverton-based manufacturer has produced fabric used in applications ranging from space exploration and extreme sports to Hollywood blockbusters. Its ongoing production of diverse fabrics has driven the local business to achieve global success.

Business Project Manager, Alison Kitchener – Heathcoat Fabrics said: “We had at least three contractors turn this project down because of its complexity before Devon Contractors were recommended to us. We learned of their excellent reputation within the construction industry and were impressed with their technical knowledge and capabilities. The team that managed the project gave us confidence in their ability to deliver within the timescales we required, with the major preparation works completed as scheduled, in readiness for the steel installation.”

She added:“From the outset we made it clear to Devon Contractors that the key to the success of this project was in keeping production operational with little, or no interruption. The works surpassed our expectations, as did the overall site management for the project and good weather resulted in an excellent end result and a project we were all very proud to be involved in. Safety of operations was paramount and clearly demonstrated via the excellent safety audit reports forwarded on to us.”

Stuart O’Higgins, Contracts Manager – Devon Contractors comments: “This was a very challenging contract however, we worked closely with the factory management team to ensure programme delivery, and the client was able to continue business operations throughout construction. We are delighted to officially hand over the completed works to Heathcoat Fabrics.

Exeter-based Taylor Lewis Limited was engaged by Heathcoat Fabrics Limited to act as the Contract Administrator and CDM Principal Designer on the project. Peter Owens, Senior Associate said: “The first task was to help to engage a contractor who was capable of carrying out the works with as little disruption to the client’s activities and as safely as possible. Taylor Lewis compiled the contract and CDM documentation and administered the contract until its completion. The project faced many challenges but were overcome with great collaboration between the client and Devon Contractors and it was completed on time and within budget.”

Andrew MacManus, Engineering Director – Heathcoat Fabrics concludes: “Devon Contractors were professional in their approach to all aspects of the project – if there was an issue it was quickly dealt with and resolved to our satisfaction. The contractors on site were courteous to our staff members and co-ordinated well with them in operational areas resulting in very minimal disruption. It was a pleasure to have their team on site and as a result we would be keen to work with them again.”

www.devoncontractors.co.uk

www.heathcoat.co.uk / www.taylorlewis.co.uk

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