BMW Mini Plant, Oxford – Groundworks

OVERVIEW

Natta delivered a specialist full groundworks package as part of the expansion of the BMW Oxford Mini Plant for our client, McLaughlin and Harvey. As a result, our works supported a new building extension and associated infrastructure upgrades designed to boost production capacity and site efficiency.

SCOPE OF WORKS

Our scope involved the installation of heavy-duty foundation pads and drainage systems for a filtration plant and services for the new electric factory unit. These were designed to meet the rigorous specifications of an advanced manufacturing facility.

We also undertook the formation of external concrete slabs, the construction of retaining walls, and the development of large-scale underwater attenuation and pumping tanks. Additionally, we completed all external finishes to ensure the extension was seamlessly integrated into the existing plant layout. Non-standard methods were employed to ensure tolerance within enclosed buildings, where standard dimensional control was being interfered with by the adjacent factory.

In addition to the main extension works, we were also awarded a further package to expand the site’s parking infrastructure. Our team carried out the upgrade of on-site utilities. They diverted and rerouted the existing water main to allow construction of the new car park. In addition, our works comprised the installation of a large-scale underwater attenuation and pumping tanks.

These works required detailed planning as well as close coordination with the client and utility providers to minimise disruption to ongoing plant operations. Since the site stayed live during construction, we prioritised keeping all essential services operating without interruption.

CONCLUSION

Throughout this live environment project, Natta continued to demonstrate our expertise in working to tight tolerances, adapting to site constraints, and maintaining clear communication with all stakeholders. Consequently, we adopted a methodical approach that allowed us to deliver all works safely, efficiently, and to the high standards expected on a high-profile site such as BMW.

Furthermore, through collaboration of the PC, we implemented value engineering for the service diversions, lowering costs and shortening programme durations to ensure the client met contractual dates, even with additional utilities identified on site.

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