1. Brook Crompton 2nd Floor Offices
St Thomas Road
Huddersfield
HD1 3LJ
13 December 2010
Tel: 01484 424874
Fax: 01484 420149
Our Ref: MT/JW/LET007 www.wates.co.uk
To Whom It May Concern
CLIENT TESTIMONIAL -
WATES LIVING SPACE
We have worked with Watson Batty Architects on both residential and education PFI projects
for over six years, most recently on the Kirklees Excellent Homes for Life PFI.
Watson Batty was appointed as Lead Designer for the general needs element of the project,
which consisted of 400 new build one and two-bedroomed flats, located across 29 different
sites, to meet Lifetime Homes standards and Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4.
Watson Batty worked very closely with both the Regenter SPV and Kirklees Council PFI
teams to develop designs that not only meet the detailed output specification, but also adhere
to current legislation. We were delighted when the planning team, headed up by Richard
Merrills and Matthew Lobley, successfully achieved full planning approval for all 29 sites.
We have been very impressed with their commitment, dedication, flexibility and
responsiveness - qualities which helped lead to such a positive planning outcome.
They are currently preparing the detailed designs, working drawings, specifications and
design compliance audits as we move towards financial close on the PFI deal, and an
anticipated start on site in the early part of 2011.
Watson Batty also worked well with us and forged a very close working relationship with our
Project Delivery team. We found them to be good problem-solvers during some testing
moments on the PFI project, and they always strive to arrive at a workable outcome whilst
maintaining a positive, friendly working relationship.
We enjoy working with Richard and his team, and look forward to pursuing other opportunities
with them in the future.
Yours faithfully
MARTIN THOMAS
Construction Manager
Wates Living Space
Wates Construction Limited
Registered Number: 1977948 England. Registered office: Wates House, Station Approach, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 7SW