Unit 1, Minworth, Birmingham
Orchard Successfully Completes Major DHL Project in Birmingham
We are proud to announce the successful completion of a significant project at Unit 1, First Avenue, Minworth, Birmingham, for DHL. Over 32 weeks, we delivered a transformative 200,000 ft². refurbishment, including a new 3,930 sq. ft office block, infrastructure enhancements, and sustainability-focused upgrades.
Project Highlights
Demolition & Refurbishment: Removal of outdated office blocks and a full-scale warehouse refurbishment.
Expanded Warehouse Space: Dock leveller infill to create a larger, more efficient warehouse area.
Roofing & Cladding: Installation of advanced TATA Trisomet composite roof panels and cladding.
Office & Amenities Upgrade: New office block with modern amenities, lifts, WCs, kitchens, and operational spaces.
Sustainable Solutions: BREEAM-compliant greywater recycling, and energy-efficient installations.
Logistics & Infrastructure Enhancements: Sectional doors, dock levellers, and an upgraded utility supply.
Drainage & Hardstanding Improvements: New Q-Max surface water drainage, bypass separators, and enhanced service yard.
Car Parks & EV Charging: New hardstandings, car parks, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Improved Accessibility: Retaining wall construction for enhanced parking, cycle storage, and a new pathway.
Power Upgrades: Substation bases and cable pits prepared for a new electricity supply.
Overcoming Challenges
Undertaking such a large-scale refurbishment posed challenges that our team successfully managed:
Hidden Structural Issues: Discovery of asbestos beneath the slab and an underground pump station required careful remediation.
Brick & Blockwork Repairs: Addressing dilapidated structural areas with extensive repairs and replacements.
Supply Chain & Scheduling: Managing third-party dependencies and lead times with creative sequencing of work.
Warehouse Flooring Obstacles: Over 12,000 hidden bolts were uncovered beneath the existing concrete slab, requiring additional remediation.
Commitment to Sustainability & BREEAM Standards
Our commitment to environmental responsibility was embedded throughout the project:
10,000-Litre Grey Water Harvesting: Stormsaver system supplying waste cisterns for water conservation.
Leak Detection & Energy Monitoring: Comprehensive metering and leak detection for enhanced efficiency.
Advanced Energy Metering: Enabling precise monitoring of energy usage across key operational areas.
A Huge Thank You!
A massive thank you to Mileway, Helme & Partners, and everyone involved for their dedication and expertise. From start to finish, the collaboration and commitment from all teams made this project a resounding success.
This project represents a landmark achievement, setting a new standard in warehouse refurbishment, sustainability, and operational efficiency. We look forward to seeing the continued success of this DHL facility in the years ahead!