McLaren Construction Midlands and North has announced its involvement in the prestigious Birmingham England Temple project for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
The scheme, which is set to re-define the local landscape, officially commenced with a groundbreaking ceremony on 22nd March, attended by over 300 guests which was live streamed globally on YouTube.
The project involves the demolition of an existing administrative building to make way for a new Temple and ancillary building that will house office space and living accommodation.
Alongside the construction of the Temple and accommodation block, McLaren will oversee the renovation of the existing meeting house and extensive landscaping works, including the planting of mature trees to enhance the natural surroundings, to be complete and well-established by project handover.
The new two-storey accommodation block will be built with a steel frame and brick façade, complemented by bespoke stonework. The Temple itself will feature a central 38-metre-high spire and a stone façade, designed with exceptional craftsmanship.
The contractor will manage the installation of new electrical, mechanical, and ancillary systems, including water supply, fire protection, and advanced security measures, to ensure the facility operates to the highest standards.
Such a high-profile project presents several key challenges – the site, located in a predominantly residential area, requires careful planning and co-ordination to mitigate disruption to neighbouring properties. The formation of a new entrance from Penns Lane involves diverting multiple services, adding another layer of complexity, while the procurement of a specific shade of limestone from a Portuguese quarry is essential to maintaining consistency with other Temples constructed worldwide.
One of the most striking features of the project is the 38-metre spire, which is being constructed directly under the flight path of Birmingham Airport. This requires close coordination with aviation authorities to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
The Birmingham England Temple project will be built to the highest standards, with a focus on bespoke design elements, including carved stone façades, custom joinery, and feature lighting. The scheme is set to target a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, reflecting McLaren’s commitment to sustainable building practices.
Luke Arnold, Operations Director at McLaren, said: “We are honoured to be entrusted with such a significant project that carries deep meaning for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and its global community. This is not just a construction project, but a testament to the Church’s vision and legacy. Our team is dedicated to delivering an exceptional standard of craftsmanship and quality that reflects the sacred purpose of the Birmingham England Temple.”
McLaren Construction Midlands and North is committed to delivering a world-class facility that will serve the Church and the wider community for generations to come.
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