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THE BRIEF
Based in Canterbury College, Spring Lane is part of East Kent College (EKC). The college offers a set of programs, particularly focusing on animal management, land-based studies, and horticulture. This unique campus is outfitted to provide students with practical education, featuring facilities that house an impressive array of more than 200 animal species. This immersive environment is designed to prepare students for careers in fields related to animal care, conservation, and gardening, among others.
EKC’s Spring Lane Campus is at the forefront of educational advancement, offering courses for Pre-16 Junior College, A-Levels, T-Levels and further education. EKC has plans to improve the effectiveness and sustainability of its buildings. This was shown from the outset with green designs incorporated into Spring Lane’s proposals.
Before the new plans for Spring Lane, the existing buildings were viewed as unsatisfactory and unfit for purpose. The development was required to be modern, comfortable, and spacious.
OUR WORK
Spatial Dimensions were instructed on-site by Betteridge & Milsom in 2021. Initially, we were briefed to carry out a 3D topographical survey at the 20,000m2 Spring Lane site.
At this time, the UK had recently come out of the third national lockdown. During this time COVID-19 was still a very present threat, and education institutions had just opened their doors again. It was therefore highly important our project management team were in constant communication with the site. Before the first site visit, we were instructed to wear COVID-19 PPE in specific areas and whilst working inside. Our surveyors were briefed on this specifically as well as other crucial site information. Whilst working, our surveyors were aware of social distancing measures whilst also avoiding general disruption to teaching.
TOPOGRAPHICAL SURVEY
Whilst setting up the topographical survey, a control was set to establish reference points the rest of the project’s data is based on. This ensures the exact accuracy of data. The full topographical survey was carried out to include existing structures, topography, boundary details, basic drainage data and other important information.
A 3D Revit model in the level of detail (LOD) 2 with materials was created from surveyed information. The model was specified at LOD 2 by our client, as shown in our guide here. LOD 2 can be modelled on mass and is a perfect option for site-wide surveys such as this. At the time of surveying the teaching spaces at Spring Lane were seen as inadequate. We were therefore aware of the important time scales associated with this work. Mass modelling at LOD 2, as opposed to LOD 3 or 4, meant a quicker turnaround. Having an accessible digital 3D Revit model also ensured increased collaboration and the sharing of data. This certainly sped up the planning process, saving our clients money.
UNDERGROUND UTILITY SURVEY
Following the successful delivery of topographical survey information, our underground utility team were instructed to start a Spring Lane in January 2022. The core aim of this underground utility survey was to identify and locate existing underground structures. This underground information was essential in preventing potential damages during construction and delaying the project timeline. Within the underground utility surveys, statutory utility plan retrievals and CCTV drainage surveys were carried out. The statutory utility plan enabled the planning of design work and helped determine the feasibility of certain underground works. The CCTV drainage survey provided a detailed report of the current drainage system and located any potential issues. As this is a non-invasive survey, it is quick and also efficient, helping the quick turnaround of survey information.
THE OUTCOME
The completion of surveys meant all data was delivered on time and to the correct specifications to an extremely satisfied client.
The overall project was completed on time and within budget.
Following the Spring Lane Campus opening in 2023, the college has received excellent feedback from staff and students. East Kent College hopes its state-of-the-art facilities will improve their experience whilst attracting more students.
In conclusion, the Spring Lane project ensures students have increased learning opportunities, that will benefit their future careers. The better facilities are hoping to attract more students to the campus. By providing better facilities we will see the animal care, conservation, and gardening industries benefit.
Finally, we believe this is just the beginning for the Spring Lane Campus, and it will go from strength to strength!
