Wisbech High Street

Key Features

Etec redeveloped a vacant site on Wisbech High Street on behalf of Fenland District Council. The site had remained empty since a fire destroyed the original building.

Delivered between April 2023 and January 2026, the project created a four-storey mixed-use building with seven residential apartments and one commercial unit.

Works included piling, a raised ground floor slab with a ventilated void, and a traditional brick and block superstructure with heritage detailing.

The roof featured a pitched Welsh slate roof with a Bauder roofing system, while the apartments received all-electric heating, full internal fit-out, and associated external landscaping. Utility diversions were also carried out in the live High Street environment.

Challenges and Solutions

The project faced several challenges, including client-led design where only certain elements were Contractor Designed Portions (CDP), which caused design coordination issues and delays.

The constrained infill site and active High Street location created logistical challenges around access, deliveries, and vehicle movements.

Managing public interaction was also critical to maintain safety and minimise disruption.

Lessons Learned

Key lessons included the importance of regular design coordination meetings, structured design reviews, and robust RFI reporting.

A well-planned site setup and logistics strategy, supported by a recognised traffic management company, was essential.

Ongoing communication with residents and local businesses helped maintain positive relations and keep the project running smoothly.