Bracknell Access Self Storage

Project Overview
The Access Self Storage project in Bracknell involved the design and conversion of an existing office building into a purpose-built self storage facility with associated serviced office accommodation. The refurbishment introduced new internal layouts to support industrial and logistics storage operations, alongside customer-facing and operational spaces. The scheme included the formation of a new third floor, enabling increased storage capacity within the existing building envelope. Delivered within an established commercial location, the project transformed a redundant office asset into a modern industrial and logistics facility aligned with operational requirements.

Project Requirements
The client required the conversion of an existing office building into a fully operational self storage facility while retaining occupation of part of the lower ground floor throughout the works. Key objectives included maximising storage capacity through the introduction of additional floors, integrating goods lifts to support logistics operations, and upgrading internal layouts to meet operational standards. Structural alterations were required to support the new third floor, alongside careful coordination of works within a live environment.

Glencar’s Role
Glencar was appointed as main contractor to deliver the design and construction works associated with the building conversion, coordinating all activities through to completion and handover.

Responsibilities included:
- Overall construction management and site coordination
- Conversion of existing office accommodation to self storage use
- Design and installation of new internal floors
- Structural steelwork installation tied into the existing frame
- Installation of goods lifts
- Programme, quality and health and safety management
- Coordination of works within a partially occupied building

Scope of Works
Enabling Works / Civils & Infrastructure
- Site set-up and enabling activities
- Surveys and coordination with retained occupiers
- Temporary works to support structural alterations

Building / Superstructure
- Structural steelwork installation
- Formation of new third floor
- Alterations to existing building structure

Fit-Out & Building Services
- Internal fit-out of self storage areas
- Installation of goods lifts
- Mechanical and electrical services
- Serviced office accommodation works

External Works & Landscaping
- Localised external alterations
- Making good to entrances and access points

Technical & Delivery Challenges
The conversion of an occupied office building into an industrial and logistics self storage facility presented significant sequencing and coordination challenges. Introducing a new third floor required careful integration of structural steelwork with the existing frame, while maintaining building stability and safety. Installation of goods lifts within a constrained footprint demanded precise planning. Delivering the works while part of the lower ground floor remained occupied required strict segregation, robust health and safety controls and close communication with the tenant to minimise disruption throughout the programme.

Delivery Conditions Addressed
- Live occupied building
- Change of use to industrial and logistics
- Structural alterations within an existing frame
- Installation of new vertical circulation
- Programme-driven delivery

The Outcome
The completed Access Self Storage facility at Bracknell delivers a modern, multi-level industrial and logistics asset with integrated goods handling and customer facilities. The introduction of additional floors and efficient internal layouts maximises storage capacity within the existing building envelope. Delivered within a live environment, the project provides a resilient, adaptable facility aligned with operational requirements and long-term estate strategy.