Overview
We recently completed a package of enabling works at The Peter Pan Centre for Children with Special Needs, preparing a dedicated outdoor space for a new classroom.
The centre already had Pentagon Play appointed to install the wet pour surfacing and timber structure. Our role was to prepare the site so their team could move in and deliver the next stage without delays.
About The Peter Pan Centre
The Peter Pan Centre is a local charity based in Newcastle-under-Lyme that supports pre-school children with special educational needs and disabilities.
They provide specialist care and early years education, making a real difference to children and families across the area.
As a charity, they rely heavily on fundraising to continue delivering this vital service. If you would like to support this incredible local charity, you can make a dontaion here.
The Challenge
This project presented a couple of challenges that needed to be managed early to keep things on track.
Ground conditions across the site were poor, with heavy clay making it unsuitable for standard sub-base depths. To ensure long term stability, levels had to be set deeper and the retaining wall foundations widened.
During excavation, we also uncovered drainage pipes that were not shown on the existing plans. These were accidentally struck during digging, requiring immediate repair and reinstatement before works could continue.
Both issues were resolved on site with minimal impact to the overall programme.
The Work Carried Out
Our team delivered the full enabling works package to prepare the area for installation.
This included:
• Clearing the site and removing an existing storage unit
• Excavating a grass bank and setting new levels
• Installing a retaining wall with widened foundations for stability
• Repairing and making good damaged drainage
• Installing fencing and a gate to create a safe and secure space
The focus was on creating a level, stable and accessible area so the next contractor could begin work immediately.
Collaboration with Pentagon Play
Once the site was prepared, Pentagon Play carried out the installation of:
• Rubberised wet pour surfacing
• A timber framed lean to structure
• Rubber mulch along the top of the retaining wall
Working in sequence like this ensured a smooth transition between trades and kept the project moving efficiently.
The Outcome
The completed space now provides a safe and engaging outdoor classroom for the children at the centre.
By resolving ground conditions and drainage issues early, and delivering the enabling works to the required standard, the project was able to progress without delays.
Supporting Education Projects in Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme
Projects like this highlight the importance of early stage works in setting construction projects up for success.
From site clearance to ground preparation and structural elements, getting the basics right allows specialist contractors to deliver their work effectively.
If you are planning a project and need enabling works in Stoke-on-Trent or Newcastle-under-Lyme, Sixtowns Waste can help prepare your site for the next stage.
