Radley College Music Hall

The Expansion of Radley College Music Hall: Blending Tradition with Innovation

Radley College, a prestigious independent boys' boarding school in Oxfordshire, is renowned for its rich musical tradition and commitment to the arts. The school's Music Hall has been a cornerstone of this tradition, hosting countless rehearsals, lessons, and performances that have enriched the lives of its students and the broader community.

Now, the Music Hall is poised to enter a new chapter with an exciting extension project underway. Keith Cook Construction has been tasked with laying the new foundations and installing the drainage system for this expansion. This development is not just a physical growth of the space but also a symbol of the school's dedication to fostering musical excellence for generations to come.

The extension will provide additional facilities and state-of-the-art acoustics, allowing for an even more diverse range of musical activities. From orchestral performances to intimate chamber music sessions, the enhanced Music Hall will cater to the varied musical pursuits of Radley's students. The project reflects the school's philosophy of blending tradition with innovation, ensuring that its legacy continues while embracing new possibilities in music education.

As the construction progresses, anticipation builds among students, faculty, and alumni. The extended Music Hall is set to become a hub of creativity and collaboration, where the timeless beauty of music can flourish in an environment designed for the future. With this expansion, Radley College reaffirms its status as a leading institution where music not only lives but thrives.

For more information on Radley College's music hall extension keep checking back here at Keith Cook Construction Ltd.

Reduce dig and foundations

Foundations and Obstructions

Foundations are going well though we have found a number of obstructions which required bringing in a larger breaker than the one we have had on our 8t machine.

Drainage.

Drainage was excavated for stormwater management around the entire perimeter of the building, a critical step in ensuring that excess water is effectively diverted away from the structure. This drainage system was designed to handle significant volumes of stormwater, which is essential for preventing flooding and water damage during heavy rain events. The collected stormwater was directed into a crate attenuation tank, specifically engineered to temporarily store the water and gradually release it into the existing stormwater system. This process was facilitated through the use of a vortex flow control unit, which plays a pivotal role in regulating the flow rate and minimizing the risk of surges that could overwhelm the drainage infrastructure.

The crate attenuation tank was strategically situated within the original car park area, which posed unique challenges given the need for it to support substantial loadings of up to 40 tons. This requirement necessitated careful consideration of the materials used and the structural integrity of the tank, ensuring that it could withstand the weight of vehicles and other potential loads without compromising its functionality. The design and installation of the crate involved meticulous planning to ensure that it would not only perform effectively in stormwater management but also coexist harmoniously with the existing parking facilities.

Additionally, the project faced complications due to the depth of the excavation required and the presence of groundwater in the area. This situation demanded a cautious approach to the excavation process, as removing too much material at once could lead to the risk of uncontrolled collapse of the surrounding soil. To mitigate this risk, we implemented a phased excavation strategy, carefully monitoring the stability of the excavation walls and the groundwater levels throughout the process. This approach allowed us to maintain safety while effectively installing the drainage system, ensuring that both the structural integrity of the site and the functionality of the stormwater management system were preserved. Our team remained vigilant, conducting regular assessments to adapt our methods as necessary, thereby ensuring the project's success while safeguarding the surrounding environment.