Challenges and Solutions of Constructing Commercial Properties in Congested Areas of London

<p">Did you know that between 2014 and 2024, the average planning permission acceptance rate for commercial properties in England was 91%? It tells us how rapidly the growth of commercial buildings has occurred in the UK, as well as in London.

The city of London is considered a major contributor to the United Kingdom's economy. It is only natural that the growing number of commercial buildings in London has made it a congested area. If you are planning to build a commercial building in the city, you ought to face construction challenges. Site accessibility challenges, planning permission complexity, power, and risk related to worker safety might be significant factors.

 In this blog, we will guide you through the challenges and their potential solutions when constructing commercial properties in congested areas of London.

The Urban Density Challenge

As per data from 2022, there were 8.9 million residents living in London. It becomes really challenging to conduct construction work in such a densely populated area. Additionally, a lack of open space makes it more difficult to transport construction materials and machinery to the construction site.

Pedestrians and vehicles in the city make it more complex for construction workers to complete their job seamlessly. Even if you put restrictions on traffic, the situation becomes more complex. As stranded vehicles create a more complex scenario for newly arriving vehicles

Solution

To resolve the issue, multiple options can be considered. For example, you can use just-in-time delivery logistics to transport necessary construction materials to the site. So you would not need additional space to store concrete materials.

Alternatively, prefabricated construction components can be used to expedite the construction process.  You can construct building parts at another site and transport them to the construction area. In this process, you would not need to bring any construction machinery or equipment to the construction site.

Planning and Regulatory Barriers

It is fairly difficult to obtain planning permission in the UK if it does not comply with legal regulations. If you plan to build a concrete structure in a protected area, obtaining planning permission approval can be challenging.

Moreover, if the new building is near a heritage site or residential zones, then you might not get permission to build a high-rise commercial building. To obtain planning permission, it is essential to comply with the regulations governing the construction of commercial buildings in the UK. 

Solution

Hire an experienced planning consultant with knowledge of the London Borough Council regulations. Besides, you should also conduct a community consultation. Understand the possible issues and challenges which the neighbours might face if you conduct a commercial construction project.

Limited Access and Site Constraints

 You may also notice that the roads are not wide enough to accommodate equipment on site. Narrow streets and space constraints will be a challenging factor in bringing a construction crane and other large equipment. Moreover, there may be restrictions on working hours due to residents living near your commercial construction site.

Narrow streets and low bridges limit vehicle access.

Solution

You can use smaller, modular equipment that can be assembled on-site. So you can carry them easily and use them for construction work.  Regarding working hours, I would like to request permission to work on weekends and night shifts. When working night shifts, be mindful of avoiding sound pollution.

Safety and Risk Management

For any construction work, risk assessment and safety measures are essential.  Before you start constructing the commercial building, ensure that the workers are aware of the risks and understand the necessary safety measures.  Dust and noise pollution in construction work can pose a significant risk to employees' health.

Solution

Provide safety training to all Workers employed in the construction work. Teach them how to use protective gear and safety equipment when working at heights.  Please provide them with safety equipment to protect themselves from dust pollution and noise pollution at the construction site.

Utility Diversions and Underground Constraints

You may encounter issues constructing a building on a site where old underground utility lines are present. Such as pipes, sewers or other utility lines. It is unlikely that you will obtain permission to build a concrete building on such a site. Otherwise, you might accidentally disrupt the utility services.

Solution

If you get the permission to work on such a site with complex utility lines underneath, use ground-penetrating radar surveys to identify the lines underground. Plan your building construction accordingly to safeguard the utility lines.

Conclusion

Completing commercial construction projects in the congested areas of London can be challenging, but not impossible. Use proper materials and techniques to construct a commercial building carefully. Consult with residents to determine a suitable time to complete the construction job that minimises disturbance to their peace.