Construction work resumed yesterday (26 March) on the site of the Sandwell Aquatics Centre in Londonderry Lane, Smethwick, following a 24-hour pause.
Deputy leader of Sandwell Council, Councillor Maria Crompton, said: “Following the Government’s announcement on Monday (23 March) that construction sites are to remain open, our construction partner Wates Construction suspended work on the Aquatics Centre on Wednesday (25 March) for 24 hours to double check that the necessary measures are in place to enable staff to continue to work safely in response to the recent Covid-19 (coronavirus) outbreak.
“While a robust action plan was already in place, Wates wanted to make sure the health and safety of staff and wider society is not compromised in any way and that the measures are compliant with Public Health England guidance. The precautions Wates have in place include additional cleaners on site, with regular deep cleansing of site accommodation, and workers being organised into split shifts, rotas and that they are separated appropriately. The welfare facilities on site and access arrangements to these in order to comply with guidance has also been reviewed, for example imposing canteen capacity limits. On this basis, and in line with Government guidelines, Wates recommenced work on site this morning and will continue accordingly.
“Along with our partners, we are committed to delivering this project in line with the current timelines. However, a strong response to the Covid-19 crisis and the safety of our workforce is paramount for Sandwell Council and we will follow any new guidelines announced by Government or any health and safety recommendation made by our construction partner, Wates.”