Overview
The Center Parcs Woburn Forest project was a significant landscaping and construction endeavor that marked the beginning of a long-term relationship with Center Parcs. Land Structure was tasked with the soft landscaping around the lodges and ancillary buildings. In addition, the team designed and installed various timber structures to enhance the guest experience, particularly within gameplay zones.
Challenges
Delayed Construction Timeline – The initial lodge construction was delayed, pushing planting into the warmer months and increasing costs due to the need for container-grown plants.
Budget Constraints – The original budget was impacted by the need for larger, more expensive plants as delays extended beyond the traditional planting season.
Complexity of Structures – The gameplay area structures needed to be robust and durable to withstand high foot traffic, necessitating meticulous design and quality materials.
Solution
Land Structure adapted to the challenges with flexible solutions and continuous collaboration with Center Parcs:
Responsive Planning – Adjusted planting methods and schedules to accommodate construction delays and revised budgets.
Custom Timber Structures – Designed and built durable timber structures, such as a military command bunker, a fort, and a simulated crashed lorry. These structures were built to high standards, ensuring longevity and safety.
Ongoing Maintenance and Additional Projects: Land Structure’s relationship with Center Parcs continues beyond the initial project, expanding to include site wide fencing, new enhancement planting schemes, and various maintenance tasks along with a multitude of remedial, replacement and enhancement projects to all aspects of the site’s hard and soft landscaping including works across the external leisure activity areas.
Results
The project was completed in phases, with the initial landscaping wrapping up in 2014 and additional structures added in 2015. The timber structures were a hit with visitors and staff alike, leading to similar installations at other Center Parcs locations. Today, Land Structure continues to work at Woburn Forest, providing landscaping and maintenance services for a site that has grown significantly since the original project.
Key Takeaways
Building Long-Term Client Relationships – Through proactive communication and high-quality work, Land Structure solidified an ongoing relationship with Center Parcs, becoming a trusted contractor for landscaping and bespoke construction projects.
Adaptability in Project Scope – The ability to handle varying project sizes and types allowed Land Structure to expand from landscaping to include specialised structures and unique features across multiple Center Parcs locations.
Focus on Durability and Quality – The structures designed by Land Structure have withstood years of use, proving the value of investing in quality materials and craftsmanship for high-traffic environments.
Reflections
The Center Parcs project illustrates Land Structure’s commitment to quality, adaptability, and long-term client satisfaction. By staying flexible in response to delays and budget changes, Land Structure not only completed the project to high standards but also earned a place as a preferred supplier for Center Parcs.
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