Commercial
KINGLAND CRESCENT | Poole Dolphin Centre
Project Description
Legal & General Assurance (Pensions Management) Ltd is committed to promoting independent retail and fostering the regeneration of existing spaces to provide cost-effective retail and accommodation solutions.
The project commenced June 2025, with an agreed completion date in April 2026. It is managed through two separate contracts—one for internal works and one for external works—which will operate seamlessly as a single project. The contract administration is overseen by Savills (UK) Ltd.
THE INTERNAL WORK
The project involved the complete refurbishment of eight maisonette flats situated above the retail shops in Kingland Crescent, which had suffered extensive water ingress through defects in their structure. The scope of works includes a full strip-out of the existing properties, upgrades to external windows, doors, and insulation, and the installation of new central heating, hot and cold water supplies.
Additionally, the electrical system is fully re-wired, complemented by the installation of new fire alarms. Internal fire doors upgraded, and new bathrooms, kitchens, flooring, and decorations fitted to enhance the overall quality and functionality of the flats.
In four of the flats without a pre-existing gas supply, state-of-the-art Air Source Heat Pumps have been installed, along with water-saving showers and heat recovery systems to improve energy efficiency. External wall insulation has also been upgraded to enhance thermal performance and achieve better EPC ratings to all flats.
SCL provided expertise in designing kitchen layouts, mechanical and electrical systems, and integrating the new Air Source Heat Pumps, as well as upgrading fire doors to ensure safety and compliance.
THE EXTERNAL WORK
The project involved re-roofing works and general masonry repairs, including the replacement of the front elevation parapet waterproofing. This required significant scaffolding erected along Kingland Crescent, involving obtaining permits from BCP Council, liaising with centre management, shop tenants, flat tenants, and ensuring high levels of security.
The masonry works included brickwork replacement, cavity tray installation, and various structural repairs, all carried out sensitively to match the existing architecture.
The works were carried out with flat tenants in occupation, requiring careful planning and consideration of health and safety protocols. Variation works included the installation of new external steps for improved access, extensive masonry repairs, and additional waterproofing measures to protect the flats.
The project also involved entering into a Basic Asset Protection agreement with Network Rail to work directly adjacent to the railway, which entailed adhering to strict commercial, health and safety, and operational requirements. Additionally, shop front repairs and redecoration were carried out along Kingland Crescent, alongside coordination and internal works to install two new electrical supplies and two new water supplies to the flats from street level.
The Challenges of the Project
The project/buildings have thrown up many challenges due to the age and condition of the structure. Many variations including the installation of a new fire rated ceiling to the shop below flat 4A, which necessitated a full-re-wire to current regulations, installation of a new fire alarm, new flooring etc.
“We’re delighted to be part of such a significant regeneration project in Poole. It presents a different environment and showcases the breadth of skills our experienced team brings. Our priority is ensuring the existing buildings remain operational throughout, enabling tenants and users to continue business as usual. Every project has its challenges; working over a busy pedestrian precinct, liaising with Kingland’s valued shop tenants to minimise disruption, scheduling around protected seagull nests, and coordinating proximity to the railway. Yet, it’s genuinely exciting to be contributing to such an uplifting regeneration initiative.”
Justin Ives, MD Spetisbury Construction
CUSTOMER COMMENT
“Bringing on board Dorset‑based Spetisbury Construction has been instrumental to our regeneration vision. Their reputation for exceptional quality and deep expertise in sensitive refurbishment makes them the ideal partner. We appreciate Spetisbury Construction’s strategic approach to minimise disruption for both shoppers and residents whilst this project takes place.”
John Grinnell, Centre Manager – The Dolphin Poole
