Podium secures BSA Gateway 2 approval for major Brighton High-Rise refurbishment

We are pleased to announce that Podium has secured BSA Gateway 2 approval from the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) for the refurbishment of Wiltshire House, a 17-storey residential block in Brighton. The achievement is particularly significant given that successful existing HRB refurbishment applications currently run at just 19% (HSE figures).

The high-rise block, constructed in the late 1960s as the first stage of the Somerset Street Comprehensive Development Area, represents one of the surviving structures from this historic development. Podium is contracted as both Principal Designer (BSR) and Lead Designer for the comprehensive remedial works.

The refurbishment project will tackle several urgent structural and safety concerns that have developed over the building’s five-decade lifespan. Key remedial works include resolving sections of external wall insulation (EWI) that have begun detaching from the walls and addressing the carbonised and spalling concrete ring beam on the roof.

Podium’s specialist fire safety expertise is also playing a crucial role in the project, particularly in addressing compartmentation issues within the building’s internal fire lobbies. These improvements will significantly enhance the overall fire safety profile of the residential block.

Working in partnership with Brighton and Hove City Council and contractor Mears, the project will deliver significant improvements, giving the block a new lease of life while ensuring residents benefit from improved safety, comfort, and energy efficiency in their homes.  Key works include:

-Resolution of external wall insulation detachment

-Repair of damaged concrete infrastructure

-Improved fire safety compartmentation in internal lobbies

-Installation of new triple glazed UPVc windows

-Refurbishment of the main entrance canopy

-Restoration of communal area glass panels to match original glazing

-Enhanced thermal efficiency throughout the building

Our success with this Gateway 2 approval paves the way for remedial works that will address decades of wear while modernising Wiltshire House for future generations. The project showcases our comprehensive approach to high-rise refurbishment that balances heritage preservation with the need to meet today’s safety standards and energy efficiency requirements.

Rosie Sonnenschein, Senior Project Manager said “This project demonstrates Podium’s expertise in tackling complex building safety challenges. We’re pleased that our role in this project not only addresses immediate safety concerns, but will also enhance the long-term quality of life for residents.”