Stagsden, Bedford

Summary 

• Client, architect and contractor: Astrum Homes 
• Project type: Residential development 
• Size of project: 6 plots 
• Location: Spring Lane, Stagsden in Bedford 

Our role

Astrum Homes are a new homes builder providing high quality new homes in Milton Keynes, Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire. We were engaged as the structural engineering consultants for this six-plot residential development. As a repeat client, Astrum Homes approached us following the receipt of planning permission to provide full structural engineering design services. 

Project requirements and design process 

The development consisted of six executive homes, each designed using traditional load-bearing masonry construction. Our structural engineering design encompassed: 

• Traditional load-bearing masonry units to provide structural integrity. 
• Suspended beam and block floors to ensure strength and durability at ground level. 
• Engineered posi joists at first floor level and trussed roof structures to achieve consistent and effective roof solutions. 
• Trench fill foundations, locally deepened in areas affected by tree roots to mitigate potential ground movement and ensure long-term stability. 

Challenges and solutions 

One of the key challenges in this project was the influence of existing trees on the foundation design. Our solution involved deepening the trench fill foundations where necessary to counteract the impact of root zones meanwhile ensure they could remain on the site.  

Outcome 

Our structural engineering design provided a robust and practical framework for Astrum Homes to deliver high-quality executive homes 

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