25.07.19
Metrolink projects rated as excellent after new assessment
Two major city centre Manchester Metrolink projects have been rated as excellent after an investigation into their sustainability.
The assessment, carried out over several years, highlighted positive aspects relating to the projects.
Second city crossing (2CC) was praised for retaining and reusing materials wherever possible, creating a carbon calculator to assess the embodied carbon of materials and using acoustic fencing and blankets around the excavation areas.
The relocation of historical artefacts – the cross and the cenotaph at St Peter’s Square – were also highlighted along with the implementation of numerous traffic-free zones.
Deansgate-Castlefield also scored highly for the efforts made to improve user enjoyment at the stop, which included a high level of attention paid to staircase detail and the development of the green wall.
The introduction of ecological landscaping that incorporates facilities for wildlife such as nesting birds, foraging bats and insect species within the highly urban form was also praised by assessors.
Assessment certificates have been presented to Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and contractor M-PACT Thales (MPT) by the Chair of UK Tram James Hamnett.
TfGM Head of Operations, Alex Cropper, said: “I am delighted with this accreditation which really reinforces our commitment to environmental, ecological and social considerations during the development of major infrastructure.
“The challenges faced by both projects in respect of their busy and historically significant city centre locations mark this achievement as not only something to be proud of, but also something to set the benchmark for future construction.
“A lot of solutions required were particularly innovative and executed in a timely fashion following consultation with our construction partners as well as authorities, businesses and members of the public.”
READ MORE: Second City Crossing: a new line through the heart of Manchester city centre
The areas covered in the CEEQUAL assessment were Project Strategy, Project Management, People and Communities, Land Use and Landscape, Historic Environment, Ecology and Biodiversity, Water Environment, Physical Resources use and management, and Transport.
Adopting the assessment scheme can provide multiple benefits to construction projects, including cost savings, waste minimalisation, resource efficiency, reduction of complaints, improved public relations and a greater awareness of social responsibility.
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