The development of a major new care in Pinhoe has reached an important milestone, marked by a topping out ceremony on site attended by the client team, Exeter Care Developments, main contractor Pollard and members of the consultant team.
To be known as Alexander House, the part three and four storey building of approximately 4000 sq. metres, will see the construction of a 67 bed care home together with associated landscaping, parking and access. Built in traditional masonry construction, the building will feature external finishes of brick work and render and a pitched roof.
To mark the ceremony, Rachel Dryden, Divisional Director for Exeter Care Developments, was invited to fix the last tile in place to mark the completion of the roof.
Commenting on the event, Hugh Dalton, Business Development Director at Pollard said:
“We are delighted to be celebrating reaching this important milestone, a fantastic effort given all the challenges caused by the current pandemic. It has been a real team effort and reflects the collaboration between Exeter Care Developments, ourselves, the consultant team and our supply chain.”
“We now focus our efforts on the completion of the project, with works well advanced internally and handing over this stunning building later this year which will make such a valuable contribution to the provision of quality care home accommodation in the region.”
“A particularly pleasing aspect of this development is the contribution it is making to the local economy, as we have employed a locally based supply chain wherever possible.”
Hugh Dalton further commented
“The tradition of holding Topping Out ceremonies is well established in the construction industry but the exact origins of topping out are unknown. Evidence however suggests that the practice took place as far back as Roman Times and in ancient Egypt, often involving human sacrifice to ward off evil spirits! In ancient China the tradition was to place an evergreen tree upon the structure to symbolise growth and bring good luck.”
In response Rachel Dryden, Divisional Director said
“We are to be delighted to be progressing with the build, working alongside Pollard and look forward to providing a first-class care home in a contemporary and luxury setting, as well as creating employment for local people.”
“Our personalised approach to care will ensure residents are always front of mind and will be further enhanced with the extensive facilities that are being included in the build such as en-suite wet rooms, salon, cinema, private dining, sensory room along with private patio areas and landscaped gardens. Without a doubt Alexander House will provide a quality home for those looking for nursing, residential and dementia care in the local area.”
Pictured is Rachel Dryden, Divisional Director of Exeter Care Developments fixing the final tile in place.