G&O Refrigeration, Milton Ernest, Bedfordshire

Commercial structural engineer for steel frame unit

Project: Commercial steel frame unit

Client: G&O Refrigeration

Architect: Andy Campbell, Concept Studio MK

Contractor: F&W Creamer

Location: Milton Ernest, Bedfordshire

Size: Approximately 185m²

Our services: Commercial Structural Engineer

We are delighted to be appointed as commercial structural engineer on this steel frame development for G&O Refrigeration in Milton Ernest, Bedfordshire. Recommended directly to the end client by the Architect, Andy Campbell of Concept Studio MK, the project is a commercial steel framed unit of approximately 185m² and forms part of our growing portfolio of commercial buildings across the region.

About the project

The development comprises a steel framed commercial unit incorporating a gantry crane, with the structural design centred on efficiency, buildability and site-specific ground conditions.

The general structure consists of pad foundations beneath structural columns, with a suspended reinforced concrete ground slab spanning between beam thickenings. As chartered structural engineers, our scope covered full structural engineering input from design through to construction detailing.

Steel frame design and connection detailing

As with our work at Swallow Business Park, we designed and detailed the steelwork connections in full as part of our appointment. It is worth noting that this is standard practice within our service offering and is included as part of our fee. Across the industry it is common for this to be treated as an additional item, with the fabricator typically sourcing and charging the client separately. We believe connection detailing is integral to a thorough steel frame design and include it as a matter of course.

Design was carried out using a combination of Tekla Building Designer and Tekla Portal Frame Designer software.

Site challenges

No two structural engineering projects are the same and this site presented unique challenges that required careful consideration during the design process.

Varying ground conditions required a measured approach to foundation design, ensuring the pad foundations were appropriately specified to suit the ground behaviour across the footprint of the building. The proximity of trees added a further layer of consideration, particularly their potential for ground movement.

The site itself is tightly constrained, sandwiched between an A-road and a railway line. This influenced both the structural approach and the logistics of construction, requiring close coordination with the contractor, F&W Creamer.

Adapting to a live design change

A notable development arose following frame erection, when the client revised the specification of the gantry crane from 8 tonnes to 10 tonnes. Managing design changes during the construction phase requires prompt structural assessment to ensure the revised loading can be safely accommodated within the existing frame. We are currently working through the implications of this change and will provide a further update as the project progresses.

A growing commercial portfolio in Bedfordshire

This project is a strong example of the value a chartered structural engineer brings to commercial steel frame developments, particularly where site constraints, ground conditions and evolving client requirements demand a responsive and technically rigorous approach. Being appointed at the recommendation of the architect reflects the collaborative relationships we continue to build with design teams across Bedfordshire and the wider region.

We look forward to sharing further updates as this project with G&O Refrigeration moves towards completion.

Client feedback

Thanks to Wayne Creamer, owner of F&W Creamer for the feedback: “Working with dbstructural was an excellent experience from start to finish. Their team provided clear, practical design solutions that made the structural and drainage elements come together seamlessly. Communication was proactive, drawings were delivered on time and their collaborative approach made coordination with our site team effortless. The end result was a well-detailed design that made the build straightforward. We’ve worked with dbstructural for many years and look forward to continuing to do so on future projects.”

Working with dbstructural

Are you looking for a structural engineer for commercial buildings in Bedfordshire or the surrounding area? Get in touch with our team to discuss your project.