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!
Leadership & Collaboration
The project was managed by Matthew Sussex (WMS Contracts Manager) and delivered in close partnership with:
- Martin Thompson, Hastoe Housing Association
- Matthew Westaway, WMS Contracts Director
- Mike Platt, WMS Area Manager South Devon
- Heather Broomfield, Kirkham Board Associates
Outcome
This milestone project demonstrates WMS’s commitment to delivering high-quality, safety-focused solutions for the UK housing sector. The upgrades ensure Chichester House meets stringent fire safety standards while improving the overall resilience and comfort of the building for residents.
