Due to a strict programme for the Dematic complex conveyor system, early access was required for high level services in week nine. To allow for the Dematic mezzanine floor to be constructed, the warehouse floor had to be poured and cured with the envelope and completed by week 15.
As an added challenge the vibro stone column ground improvement, foundations, steel frame and cladding were constructed during one of the coldest winters on record with temperatures down to -8˚C.
The fit-out element of the project required intense design input to incorporate the automation being installed (which is three times bigger than Tesco's previous .com facilities). The design was led by VolkerFitzpatrick, ensuring successful integration within the programme.
Other facilities include a full scratch bakery, small staff shop, staff canteen with kitchen, associated offices and a 30,000ft² Tesco Express Trunking station. The trunking station is located in the southern section of the warehouse and is treated by Tesco as a separate business. This area has three temperature zones of +12˚C, +1˚C and -20˚C formed with ‘box in box' insulated panels and serviced by 4 dock levellers.