Introduction

Westminster City Council is responsible for the maintenance and smooth running of council-owned buildings, including residential and sheltered accommodation. In 2024, in partnership with the council, ILE successfully completed a new lift installation in the sheltered housing block of Hardy House.

The challenge

For more than 30 years, Hardy House relied on one lift, which had eventually become unserviceable. Due to its age, it no longer met today’s required standards, and frequently broke down – causing significant inconvenience to residents. The original manufacturer had gone out of business, which meant that replacement parts had to be sourced from alternative suppliers – or even custom-made – leaving the lift out of action for extended periods of time.

Home to around 50 residents and ning four floors, the building heavily relied on the lift for daily convenience and accessibility. It was the sole means of transporting passengers and goods, including furniture, heavy shopping, wheelchairs, and pushchairs. Modernising the lift and ensuring its reliable operation became an urgent priority to support the residents’ needs.

The approach

The required lift had to meet strict specifications, needing to be robust and complying with Category 2 building regulation requirements for accessible and adaptable dwellings. To achieve this, a 16-week programme was developed, including thorough surveying, planning, and on-site work. With Westminster City Council, ILE and other contractors working closely together, collaboration was key. ILE was involved from the start, ensuring effective communication and teamwork for a smooth project.

“ILE knows exactly what’s needed and provides the best equipment. We have meetings to ensure all materials are ready, and ILE are heavily involved throughout. Great communication makes a great partnership.” – Mark Kent, Contract Engineer, Westminster City Council

Westminster City Council and ILE have built a strong, trusted partnership over 14 years. This long-standing relationship has given ILE a deep understanding of the council’s needs, enabling them to deliver the most effective solutions. For Hardy House, ILE provided a modern lift unit that met all requirements, ensuring it was completed on time and within budget, while addressing the needs of both the building and its residents.

The result

Today, Hardy House residents benefit from a modern lift that provides everyone with reliable access to and from their homes. The new installation not only meets current safety and accessibility standards, but also ensures consistent performance, eliminating the frequent breakdowns that previously disrupted routines.

Residents can now freely navigate their building, with the independence that comes with the ability to transport mobility aids and other crucial equipment. Having access to a reliable lift has significantly improved the quality of life for all residents – particularly those with limited mobility.

Additionally, this project highlights the value of long-term collaboration. Continuing to build on a 14-year relationship with Westminster City Council, ILE delivered a tailored solution on schedule and within budget. The upgraded lift not only addresses immediate needs but also provides a future-proof investment, enhancing accessibility and supporting independent living for years to come.