Client: Morgan Sindall Edgbaston Priory Club is a historic tennis and squash facility in Birmingham, known for hosting prestigious tournaments like the Rothesay Classic. This £9.1 million redevelopment project, completed in phases, transformed the club into a premier destination for racquet sports enthusiasts. The first phase introduced a six-court indoor tennis centre, a permanent grass show court with 1,000 seats (expandable to 2,500 for major events), four new squash courts, and enhanced parking facilities. The redevelopment also included a modern clubhouse with a roof terrace overlooking the parkland, enhancing the club's appeal for members and visitors. Services we provided Civil & Infrastructure Engineering Geotechnical & Ground Engineering Ground Investigation & Land Quality Structural Engineering Our Role Our initial work involved a thorough review of historical site information, including previous earthworks and construction details. We conducted a series of trial holes and site investigations to identify the composition and behaviour of the subgrade materials. Site investigations Based on our findings, we determined that the existing subgrade contained elements prone to heave and instability. To address this, we proposed removing the affected subgrade material down to a suitable starting layer and replacing it with new, clean granular material reinforced with a geotextile membrane. This solution ensured that the new subgrade would remain stable and mitigate the risk of future surface heave. On-site supervision Throughout the works, we provided on-site supervision, monitoring the excavation and replacement of the subgrade. We also assisted the client in sourcing suitable subgrade material, visiting the quarry to verify its quality and confirm compliance with the project’s specifications. Our proactive involvement prevented the use of unsuitable materials, saving the client time and costs. Efficient delivery The main challenge arose when the subgrade material was found to vary significantly across the tennis courts, contrary to initial assessments. This required additional excavation and material replacement, which could have impacted project timelines. Our on-site presence ensured that the works were carried out efficiently, with any issues resolved promptly to keep the project on track.