Queens Gardens Regeneration Scheme

The project commenced with a comprehensive Enabling Works package which included the sympathetic restoration of the historic Rose Bowl Fountain. Works comprised extensive structural repairs, refurbishment and repainting works, together with the installation of a new mechanical and electrical package. CR Reynolds also undertook the careful demolition of a redundant café building and the dismantling, transportation and relocation of the existing steel bandstand structure to Pickering Park.

Phase 1 and subsequent public realm works included significant site clearance, excavation and demolition activities, including the removal of existing retaining walls, kerbing, pond copings and redundant hard landscaping. Existing Yorkstone paving was carefully removed, cleaned and retained for reuse throughout the development. New reinforced concrete retaining walls were constructed alongside new access ramps, steps and pedestrian routes to improve accessibility throughout the gardens. In total, 671 new steps and 424 metres of balustrades were installed.

Extensive infrastructure improvements were carried out, including the installation of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), new surface water drainage networks, attenuation systems, utility diversions and a new electrical substation. Mechanical and electrical infrastructure upgrades supported the installation of feature lighting, street lighting, street furniture and public realm enhancements throughout the site.

The landscaping package involved the felling of selected trees, planting of 64 new trees, installation of rain gardens and extensive soft landscaping works designed to enhance biodiversity and improve seasonal interest within the gardens. Approximately 7,468m² of paving was installed using six high-quality surface materials, including reused Yorkstone, recycled sandstone, Holcombe sandstone, granite, corduroy paving and Ulticolour Tarmac. Additional highways works included resurfacing and public realm improvements along Guildhall Road and surrounding streets.

The project required careful protection and preservation of numerous heritage assets, including the Solar Gate, Yorkshire Water drinking fountain, Robert Adams wall sculpture, opening plaque, Frederick Gibberd drinking fountain and Kenneth Carter artworks. A lost artwork was recreated using traditional methods and reinstated within the gardens. Existing granite mooring bollards reflecting the site's former dock heritage were retained and protected throughout the works.

Social value formed a key element of project delivery, with CR Reynolds providing more than 260 hours of training, supporting local careers events, providing supported internship opportunities, assigning three apprentices to the project and supporting local community initiatives. Through robust project management, quality control and collaborative working, all works were successfully delivered by CR Reynolds' in-house Project Delivery Team, supported by trusted specialist supply chain partners. The successful completion of the Enabling Works and Phase 1 resulted in CR Reynolds being awarded the subsequent phase of this prestigious city-centre regeneration scheme.