Case Studies

WMS has completed an extensive 10-month refurbishment of Bridgwater Library for Somerset County Council, bringing together specialist heritage skills, traditional materials and modern roofing solutions to protect and improve this important public building.

 A Complex Programme of Works

The project began with the installation of a complete scaffold enclosure to weatherproof the building ahead of the removal of the existing roof coverings.

The roofing works included new insulation, felt and battens before the existing tiles were reinstated, alongside extensive new leadwork. A large Alumasc flat roofing system was installed together with two new skylights and replacement roof glazing.

Specialist works were also undertaken to the high-level rotunda, including a new lead gutter and flashings, new glazing and copper flashing repairs and replacement.

Further improvements included external decoration and rainwater goods replacement, timber repairs and scarfing, lime render and masonry repairs across the external areas, as well as internal lime plaster repairs and full decoration.

Specialist Skills & Traditional Materials

The nature of the building required a wide range of specialist trades and materials.

Detailed lead and copper works were undertaken alongside certified Alumasc flat roof installation, carpentry, lime plastering, specialist glazing and complex scaffold and access planning. Traditional materials including lime plaster and lime paints were used alongside the new roofing systems.

Overcoming the Challenges

Working on a heritage building of this nature presented significant challenges throughout the project.
The extensive scaffold installation required road and pavement closures, with careful consideration given to public safety, security and access. The project initially began while the library remained occupied, before the building was later closed to ensure the safety of staff and members of the public.

As areas were opened up and accessed, a number of previously unknown works were identified. This required the programme to adapt, with schedules and completion dates revised as the full extent of the works became apparent.

A Project to Be Proud Of

Following 10 months on site, the result is a successfully completed refurbishment that combines modern building solutions with the specialist skills required to work sensitively with a heritage property.
For the WMS team, it is a project to be proud of - one that called upon a unique combination of skills and expertise to help ensure Bridgwater Library can continue to serve the public for many years to come.

Our Cornwall team has successfully completed a patio and pathway improvement project at a residential property, helping create safer, more accessible outdoor spaces for the resident.

 Delivered by Daniel, Max and Jamie, the works involved replacing existing paving with new, durable surfaces that will provide a practical, long-lasting solution for years to come.

The project was completed during one of the hottest periods of the summer, with the team working professionally throughout the challenging conditions while maintaining the high standards WMS is known for.

External improvement projects like these play an important role in enhancing residents' homes, improving accessibility, safety and the overall appearance of outdoor areas.

A huge well done to Daniel, Max and Jamie for another excellent job completed.

Project: Comprehensive Upgrade of a Long-Term Rental Character Property

Overview

WMS was recently commissioned to refurbish a charming long-term rental property in Bossington, Somerset. The goal was to modernize the home while preserving its unique character and traditional features.

Scope of Works

• Full electrical rewire
• Complete plumbing overhaul and new boiler installation
• External lime render and lime pointing
• Traditional lime wash external decoration
• Replacement of cast iron downpipes
• New cobbled frontage and patio installation
• Wood burner and flue fitted
• Cork insulation to eaves with internal lime plaster finish
• New lime plaster throughout
• Full internal decoration
• Brand-new kitchen installation
• New floor coverings throughout
• Soakaway and drainage improvements

Challenges

The project required balancing modern functionality with heritage preservation. Specialist skills in lime plastering and traditional finishes were essential to maintain authenticity while meeting current standards.

Delivery

The refurbishment was managed by Richard Cole, WMS Contracts Manager, with works delivered by our multi-skilled operatives from the WMS Yeovil office.

WMS Key Team Contributions:

• Simon Thomas (Site Supervisor): Delivered site works with professionalism and efficiency.
• Vincent Wilson: Initially joined as a temporary team member and is now a valued WMS employee, contributing significantly to internal cork insulation and painting.
• Jack Smith: Demonstrated exceptional craftsmanship in lime plastering, particularly on kitchen walls.

WMS Specialist Subcontractors:

WMS called on the services of our local long term sub-contractor partners for:

• Groundworks
• Mechanical & Electrical
• Plumbing & Heating
• Wood burner installation
• Flooring and carpet fitting

Outcome

The result is a beautifully restored property that seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with modern comfort. This project showcases our ability to deliver complex refurbishments with attention to detail and heritage integrity.

Project: Major External and Internal Upgrades to Listed Residential Blocks

Overview

WMS successfully delivered a significant refurbishment project at Queen Anne Court, Barnstaple, earning high praise from the client for quality and professionalism. The works were managed by Senior Contracts Manager Matt Kempster and executed by our skilled in-house team alongside trusted subcontractor partners.
This £800k project focused on two multi-occupancy residential blocks, ensuring structural integrity, aesthetic improvements, and compliance with heritage requirements.

Scope of Works

• Complete Roof Replacement: Installation of natural slate tiles for durability and heritage compliance.
• Window Upgrades: Fitting of 120 new timber sliding sash windows, semi-factory finished and completed on-site with Dulux Trade Weathershield Exterior Gloss for enhanced longevity.
• Render & Structural Repairs: Including Helifix stitching for structural reinforcement.
• Steel Lintel & Header Replacement: Ensuring long-term stability and safety.
• Guttering Refurbishment: Original guttering relined and restored.
• Full External Decoration: Preserving the building’s historic character.
• Internal Decoration: Communal areas refreshed for improved resident experience.

Heritage Compliance

As a listed building, all works were carried out in close consultation with the local conservation officer to maintain architectural integrity while delivering modern performance standards.

Leadership & Collaboration

The project was expertly coordinated by Matt Kempster, ensuring seamless delivery with minimal disruption to residents. Collaboration between WMS teams and specialist subcontractors was key to achieving outstanding results.

Outcome

The refurbishment has revitalized Queen Anne Court, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern durability. This project reinforces WMS’s reputation for delivering complex heritage works to the highest standards of quality and compliance.

We’re proud to share the successful completion of refurbishment works at 1–11 & 12–23 Forches Avenue, North Devon. The project focused on enhancing aesthetics, improving energy efficiency, and addressing long-standing weather-related issues.

What We Delivered:

• Cavity Wall Insulation – Removed outdated materials and installed energy-efficient insulation.
• Render Repairs – Restored damaged areas for durability and visual appeal.
• Roofline Adjustments & Repairs – Extended verges, refurbished soffits, fascias, and rainwater goods.
• Modern Cladding – Installed Marley Cedral Click cladding for a sleek, low-maintenance finish.
• Porch Roof Upgrades – Applied GRP coverings and constructed pitched roofs for better drainage and aesthetics.

Led by:
WMS Senior Contracts Manager Matt Kempster and our Planned Maintenance Team from Bideford, whose professionalism ensured outstanding results and positive client feedback.

The Outcome:
A revitalised look, improved energy performance, and a durable finish that enhances both functionality and kerb appeal.

Project: Major Internal Refurbishment and Fire Safety Enhancements

Overview

WMS have successfully delivered a comprehensive fire safety upgrade and internal refurbishment at Chichester House, an iconic 19-storey residential block in Plymouth. Commissioned by Hastoe Housing Association, this project significantly improved the building’s safety, resilience, and compliance with modern fire regulations.

Scope of Works

• Replacement of 69 apartment doors with fire-rated composite door sets
• Installation of FD60S-compliant fire-rated inner lobby doors - all other doors replaced to FD30S.
• Replacement of 18 bin chute door sets
• Upgrade of 18 electrical cupboard door sets, including compliant closers and ironmongery
• Replacement of all ground floor communal doors, including pump room entrance
• Full electrical upgrade of the mains room, plus associated remedial works throughout the building

Finishing Touches

To strengthen fire safety in communal areas, Crown Paints carried out flake tests and specified Crown Trade Timinox Flame Retardant Acrylic Eggshell for all 18 lift lobbies. As part of a joint social value initiative with WMS Crown Paints donated the product and our WMS Devon Painting Team delivered the project to the highest standards. The Team meticulously prepared all surfaces, applied multiple coats of flame retardant finish and ensured every lobby met both aesthetic and fire protection specifications. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality helped deliver a safer more durable environment for residents!