Brims Construction was appointed to deliver the construction of a new-build retail shell unit for Tesco Express, Ashington, Northumberland. As the Principal Contractor, we were responsible for delivering a fully compliant shell to Tesco’s rigorous Developers’ Shell Specification.
We were appointed to construct the single storey brick unit with a pitched roof, with other works including the formation of the new retail shell, external works, drainage installations, statutory service provisions, and completion of all landlord obligations prior to handover. The project reached completion within the contractual programme period, with all statutory consents, testing, documentation, and commissioning achieved to the client’s satisfaction.
Building Shell – The shell was constructed with a new ground‑bearing concrete slab designed for 5 kN/m² retail loading. Walls, fire and acoustic separations were completed to specification, and the exposed soffit was finished ready for Tesco’s decoration. The shopfront opening was formed to the required 2.2‑metre height and 1600‑millimetre width to allow cabinet access, with provision for an ATM where required. A DES1925‑compliant roller shutter was also installed.
Roof & Structure – The roof achieved a 0.25 W/m²K U‑value and was integrated with a structural frame capable of supporting Tesco’s racking, signage, ductwork and plant. The building met Tesco’s air‑seal requirement with a certified leakage rate of 3.0 m³/hr/m² at 50 Pa.
Services & Drainage – Up to twenty‑five drainage pop‑ups were installed to Tesco’s strict tolerances and verified by a full CCTV survey. A 69 kVA three‑phase electrical supply was provided via the REC service head, with a direct water connection from the authority and BT ducting installed for twenty lines. Temporary water and power were maintained throughout the works.
External Works – included customer and disabled parking set out to Tesco’s standards, a secure 2.4‑metre‑high gated service yard, and smooth routes suitable for 500 kg delivery cages. External lighting was installed to achieve 20 lux, and anti‑ram Autopa bollards were fitted for security. Soft landscaping was limited to planning requirements, ensuring a low‑maintenance layout.