Built for Modern Living: Our role in sustainable residential development
When long-term client Placefirst invited us to support their most sustainable development to date, we knew it would be something special. Bolt Works in Halifax is more than just a residential scheme, it’s a clear understanding of modern living.
——–
The scheme comprises 122 high-spec, fully furnished homes as part of Placefirst’s growing build-to-rent portfolio. Built on the former site of a multi-storey car park, the development incorporates a thermally efficient building envelope, photovoltaic panels, and MVHR (mechanical ventilation with heat recovery) systems. Together, these features reduce environmental impact, support operational efficiency, and help tenants benefit from lower energy bills.
The residential development delivers fully furnished, turnkey Built-to-Rent homes designed for single-family living, an increasingly important demographic. As family structures shift and the demand for flexible, well-connected rental homes grows, developments like this are key to helping towns evolve and thrive.
As Project Manager (PM), Quantity Surveyor (QS), and Employer’s Agent, we joined the scheme at RIBA Stage 3, supporting Placefirst through both pre- and post-contract stages. From design development and contractor procurement to planning approvals, budget control and change management, our involvement covered every phase of delivery.
The Walker Sime team, led by Senior Project Manager Conal Spellacy, with support from Associate Director Gavin Prothero (Quantity Surveying), Assistant Project Manager Arron Fitton and Anthony Watson (Assistant QS) was instrumental at every stage. We reviewed tenders, managed change control, reported to funders, facilitated monthly site visits, chaired meetings, negotiated with contractors, and handled planning liaison. Our focus was on seamless delivery and clear communication.
Bolt Works Residential Scheme
We worked closely with Caddick Construction, JM Architects, TACE and Roscoe to deliver the nine-storey new-build residential scheme on a former car park in the heart of Halifax. The town centre brownfield site came with its own set of challenges, from managing deliveries during nearby road upgrades to navigating detailed planning conditions, including materiality and finish. That said, Placefirst’s established relationships with Calderdale Council and our team’s collaborative approach helped ensure a smooth path forward.
“Its sympathetic use of traditional Yorkshire brickwork helps the development sit comfortably in the Halifax scene. But what really sets this project apart is its sustainability credentials, high thermal performance, low carbon targets, and an all-electric strategy. It’s Placefirst’s greenest development to date and being part of that social and environmental impact matters deeply to us,” says Conal.
“Bolt Works marks another milestone in our aim to provide much-needed rental homes in key regional locations. We are committed to creating sustainable developments that add value for both residents and the wider urban environment. This project is a prime example of how underused town centre sites can be transformed into thriving communities that align with local regeneration ambitions,” said Phil Jones, Placefirst’s Development Director
Our Project Management and Quantity Surveying teams continue to work with Placefirst on other residential / Built-to-Rent schemes. The team is also delivering Neighbourhood Regeneration, redevelopments, infrastructure upgrades, office refurbishments and more.
As Conal reflects,
“It’s a varied portfolio, but the principle stays the same: it’s not just the projects we help deliver, but the purpose behind them. Projects like
Bolt Works remind us of the real impact our work can have – on communities, on places, and on the future.”
For nationwide multi-disciplinary construction consultancy, including Quantity Surveying, Project Management, Infrastructure Services, Regeneration Delivery, Construction Design Management, Bills of Quantities and more, call us on 0161 872 9955, email hello@wordpress-657849-6256491.cloudwaysapps.com or message us here.
