Exeter-based Top 50 Indie, the Chartman Group, has finally completed the redevelopment of its flagship Winning Post site on the A38 at Haldon Hill (see April and May issues for previous reports). The site lies within an area of great landscape value, and the design brief was for a high-quality development in sympathy with its surroundings, and distinct from the normal filling station appearance. In order to achieve this, the canopy lid has been designed to reflect a tree canopy spread, supported on slender raking columns which represent the trunks, further enhanced by minimising fascia signage. The store is clad in a sustainable alternative to real wood to provide a natural feel. The weekly reports were provided by John Carp, site manager of Williams Southern Ltd.


Week 13 (ending 24/4/14)

Works have been progressing very well, but there is still much to be done to get ready for the next stage, which is to lay tarmac on the forecourt. An extension of time has been granted. Canopy bullnose and underlining have been completed. The new water main has been installed and chlorinated.


Week 14 (ending 2/5/14)

Works have progressed well this week and the site is starting to take its final shape. Tarmac surfacing to the filling station is complete. The incorrect pump stools have been broken out and will be replaced by next Wednesday ready for pump install by the end of the week. Re-testing of the contaminated spoil has been carried out, results are still outstanding.


Week 15 (ending 9/5/14)

Works have progressed well again this week. Tarmac surfacing to the rear access road is complete. Pump stools have been changed and all pumps are now installed. Works to the foul drainage system are complete as far as the swale. If the ground is still too waterlogged, an above-ground solution will be installed to allow opening on Wednesday with toilets in use.


Week 16 (ending 16/5/14)

The site is now open and trading. There is still work being carried out to the swale. This has been an enjoyable and sometimes hugely frustrating project. My thanks go out to all for their efforts throughout, especially the site team. The biggest problem was the site manager blowing the occasional fuse. Hopefully I haven’t offended too many people!

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