Ring Stones Maintenance and Construction proudly announces the successful completion of Dovestone Gardens, a pioneering development located in Burnley. This landmark project marks a significant milestone for the company, not only because it is the largest project they have ever undertaken, but also due to its specialised nature and the remarkable social and environmental contributions it has made to the community.
Dovestone Gardens is a 93-apartment complex designed to offer “extra care” accommodation for the older generation, providing the essential support needed for those with additional care needs to live independently. This state-of-the-art development has not only adhered to the highest standards of construction and safety but has also become a beacon of sustainability, social value, and ethical practices.
A Landmark Development for the Community
Dovestone Gardens, designed to meet the growing demand for accessible housing for the elderly, has set a new standard in care accommodation. The purpose-built complex will serve as a hub for the older generation in Burnley, providing much-needed support in a modern, well-equipped environment. It boasts 93 apartments, complemented by community spaces and a bistro, designed to create an inclusive and social environment for all residents.
The building itself is constructed using a combination of traditional materials, including concrete, brick, and reconstituted stone. These materials not only ensure a durable and sustainable structure but also pay homage to the local heritage. Notably, the original stone from the site was carefully salvaged and sold for reuse in local restoration projects, further reinforcing Ring Stones’ commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
“The Dovestone Gardens project has been a labour of love for all involved,” says James Macaree, Director at Ring Stones Maintenance and Construction. “It’s a first for us, a project that’s not only the largest we’ve ever taken on but also one that is deeply tied to our values. Ensuring that the development made a positive impact on both the social fabric of Burnley and the environment has been at the heart of everything we’ve done.”
Challenges and Safety Innovations
The Dovestone Gardens development posed several significant challenges, particularly due to its proximity to Burnley General Hospital. Maintaining uninterrupted access and power supply for the hospital throughout the development process was a priority, and careful planning and coordination were required to ensure the hospital’s operations were not disrupted.
Furthermore, Dovestone Gardens is a completely fire-engineered building, with every element of the design developed in line with the requirements of the Building Safety Act, which ensures the highest standards of fire safety.
The complex features fully protected corridors with integrated fire curtain systems and automated opening vents, making it not only safe for residents but also accessible for the emergency services in the event of a fire. Dry riser inlets have been installed on each floor, enabling the fire service to access water on every level, should the need arise.
Energy Efficiency and Environmental Sustainability
Environmental responsibility has been a cornerstone of the Dovestone Gardens project. Aiming to be as energy-efficient as possible, the building has been designed to minimise energy consumption while maximising comfort for the residents.
Solar panels installed on the roof generate renewable energy, while air source heat pumps provide energy-efficient heating and cooling throughout the building. Additionally, each apartment features mechanical ventilation heat recovery systems, which continuously supply fresh, clean air to the residents, maintaining a healthy living environment.
The building’s glass has been chosen for its energy efficiency, with different types of glazing selected to ensure that each aspect of the building is optimally heated. These decisions contribute to a lower carbon footprint and reduced energy costs for the residents, while also enhancing the comfort and safety of their living spaces.
The sustainability efforts extend beyond the building itself. 72 trees have been planted around the development to help support the local ecosystem, improve air quality, and contribute to the area’s green spaces. Furthermore, the construction process saw 97% of waste being recycled, with a strong emphasis on reducing environmental impact at every stage of the development.
Social Value and Community Impact
Ring Stones Maintenance and Construction has always been committed to supporting the local community and ensuring that its projects benefit the area both socially and economically. Dovestone Gardens is no exception.
The project has created numerous job opportunities, with 11 apprenticeships being established during the course of the build. In addition, three years of service placements were offered, providing valuable experience and skills to young people entering the workforce. Furthermore, 58% of all suppliers involved in the project were from the local area, ensuring that the economic benefits of the development stayed within the community.
As part of Ring Stones’ commitment to promoting sustainable travel, 42% of all employees used carbon-friendly modes of transport to and from the development site, further reducing the environmental footprint of the project.
“We are extremely proud of the team’s efforts on this project. They’ve worked tirelessly to ensure that the highest ethical standards were upheld throughout, not just in the construction phase but also in the long-term social and environmental impacts of Dovestone Gardens,” James Macaree continues. “This project is a true example of how the construction industry can make a meaningful, positive difference to society.”
A Commitment to the Future
The successful completion of Dovestone Gardens marks a turning point for Ring Stones Maintenance and Construction. It not only demonstrates the company’s capacity to handle large, specialist developments but also underscores their ongoing commitment to ethical, sustainable, and socially responsible construction practices.
As Ring Stones continues to expand its portfolio and take on more high-profile, complex projects, the lessons learned from Dovestone Gardens will serve as a model for future developments, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of construction innovation and community-oriented projects.
Ring Stones is already exploring new opportunities to create more sustainable and socially responsible developments, with a particular focus on providing accommodation for vulnerable groups in society. The success of Dovestone Gardens is a testament to the company’s ability to combine technical excellence with a commitment to social value, and it sets a new benchmark for future projects.
