CONTRACTORS working on the new £3.5 million Barnard Castle Emergency Services QUAD Station have come up with a novel technique to protect mature woodlands owned by neighbouring Bowes Museum.

Robertson Construction England has used a piling technique that protects the tree roots by effectively supporting the building on stilts.

The firm has also installed a unique tree protection matting system, which sees the ten construction workers carefully manoeuvre on designated, purpose laid paths that weave through 30 metres of mature woodlands to ensure roots are not damaged during construction.

Robertson is also protecting the existing Grade II-listed boundary wall belonging to Bowes Museum.

Garry Hope, North-East regional managing director, said: "This job is a delicate one, which is why we are going to such great lengths to deliver it on time, while remaining sympathetic to the historic surroundings.

"We collaborated with Napper Architects very early on to come up with a bespoke solution because we knew there would be some obstacles and our preparation has paid off.

The QUAD is the first of its kind in the UK. Once complete, it will be a multi-use station for the Police, Fire and Rescue, Mountain Rescue and Ambulance – an approach expected to revolutionise the way the emergency services collaborate and result in improved services overall.

Andy Bruce, estates manager for Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue, said: "Robertson delivered the build of our accommodation centre for day crews in Seaham and Newton Aycliffe last year and we were very happy with the end result.

"This is a compact site which sits within residential area so there was a lot to consider when planning this work. Robertson’s sympathetic approach to the neighbouring community is standing them in good stead."