Project outline

Murphy has completed a conservation-led, mixed-use regeneration scheme in Dalston Lane, Hackney. The development, which was agreed with Hackney Council, provides 44 residential units and ten retail units.

The project involved demolishing the original buildings at 46-78 Dalston Lane, which included unoccupied flats and a number of ground floor retail units. However, it has also involved retaining part of the terrace of late Georgian to Victorian properties.

Key challenges

The main challenge has been keeping the party walls supported during demolition and construction of each phase. The original plan, to improve the integrity of the party wall, was to carry out an underpinning activity. But after further investigation the site team suggested that using a ‘CADBE’ system to retain the wall would be safer, as it removed the need for operatives to work in confined excavations in Hackney gravel – which can be particularly unstable.

Careful phasing has also been needed to ensure businesses occupying existing units are affected as little as possible; only upon completion of phase 1 did phase 2 demolition begin.

The transition to new units has been especially significant for two retailers in particular, who have been resident for the past 40 years. It’s of paramount importance to ensure trade for them and the local community they serve is uninterrupted.

Project delivery and innovations

Demolition in this densely populated urban area was carried out in a careful and sympathetic manner, which has been essential due to the close proximity of neighbouring residents. Particularly unstable sections had to be demolished by hand to minimise risk of collapse and disruption to others.

Many aspects have been delivered using Murphy's in-house expertise and people, including the foundations, drainage and front façade. The scheme is being constructed using London reclaimed yellow stock bricks and a traditional lime mortar, to ensure local conservation requirements are met. This has meant time, care and numerous sample panels were needed, with the final approval being granted by the London Borough of Hackney with input from the Mayor.

Three apprentices from Hackney Council have been directly employed on the Murphy apprenticeship training scheme to help boost local employment and regeneration of the area.

Key facts
  • 44 homes and over 1,000 sqm retail space
  • Façade constructed using reclaimed yellow stock bricks and traditional lime mortar
  • Compliance with Code for Sustainable Homes and BREEAM Very Good
  • Secure by Design Standards

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