Littlehampton Stage 1

DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT

The Parkland Stage 1 project at Littlehampton delivers the complete construction of a new landscaped public realm, combining soft landscaping, hardscape infrastructure, structural elements and a fully integrated irrigation system. The works transform the development’s reserve and surrounding streetscapes into a functional, accessible and well-finished community space, incorporating extensive tree planting, garden beds, turf, biofiltration zones and hydroseeded areas, all prepared with appropriate soil amelioration and growing media. Hardscape works establish the pedestrian network through footpaths, paving, terracing and stairs, supported by a suite of retaining walls, rockwork terraces, edges and level transitions. The project also includes construction of elevated decking platforms, installation of balustrades and handrails, and a variety of fencing types to define boundaries and manage safety. Public amenities such as seating, benches, bike racks, feature boulders and bin enclosures are incorporated throughout the site to enhance usability. A complete automatic irrigation system—including mains, dripline networks, valves, controllers and backflow prevention—is installed across all landscape zones to support plant establishment and long-term resilience. Lighting infrastructure is integrated into the hardscape and structural elements to ensure usability and safety after dark. All works are undertaken in accordance with the detailed landscape drawings, construction specifications and materials schedules, ensuring a cohesive and high-quality delivery for this key stage of the development.

PROJECT CHALLENGES

Construction was undertaken through the challenging winter months, requiring careful sequencing to manage wet ground conditions.
The project required the coordination of multiple specialised subcontractors, each responsible for different aspects of the build—including civil interface works, concreting, brick and stone wall construction, decking installation, metalwork, landscape planting, lighting, and the complex automatic irrigation system. Effective staging, communication and daily coordination were essential to maintain progress, avoid trade clashes and ensure consistent workmanship across the many discrete finishes and material types specified within the drawings and materials schedule.
During construction, elements of the design evolved in response to unforeseen site conditions and interface requirements with civil works. These changes required mid-project redesign and refinement to ensure that structures such as retaining walls, terraced steps, decking alignments and drainage connections remained functional, compliant and visually cohesive. The project team worked collaboratively with designers, engineers and the superintendent to implement these revisions without compromising programme or quality.
Despite tight working areas, challenging weather, varied material sourcing and continuous trade coordination, the project successfully delivered a high-quality public realm. The completed parkland showcases extensive tree planting, garden beds, hydroseeded and turf areas, carefully detailed pathways and edges, structurally sound retaining and terracing systems, well-integrated decking and balustrades, and an efficient, fully automated irrigation system supporting long-term landscape health. Lighting throughout pathways, walls and deck structures further enhances safety and usability. The final outcome reflects a durable, community-focused open space constructed to a high standard of finish.

KEY CONSTRUCTION PROCESSES

Site establishment and staging
Set-out of all construction elements, including paths, walls, terraces, stairs, decking platforms
Excavation, earthworks and subgrade preparation for paving, walls, terraces, garden beds, turf areas and the detention basin interface
Construction of retaining walls and brick structures including footings, waterproofing, weep holes, capping and backfilling
Installation of rockwork terracing including geotextile layers, stone placement, embedment and compaction
Construction of stair systems including risers, treads, safety nosings, tactile indicators and adjacent wall tie-ins.
Installation of decking structures including substructure, cantilevered elements, concealed fixings and fascia treatments
Fixing of balustrades and handrails to walls, deck structures and stairways in accordance with structural detailing
Complete irrigation system installation including HDPE and PVC mains, dripline networks, valves, controllers, conduits and backflow devices
Lighting and electrical integration including uplights, wall lighting and bollard lighting mounted to walls, decks and pathways
Garden bed construction and planting works, including soil amelioration, mulch placement, plant installation, staking and formation of irrigation rings
Installation of site furniture including benches, seats, bike racks, bins and feature boulders