Bloomin’ Good
A garden centre has opened the doors to its new £750,000 extension which AJ Engineering played an integral role in ‘making happen.’
AJE worked alongside other local firms to support Mackenzie & Cruickshank with its new development which began in January. It was the fourth time that AJE had been involved in works at M&C which is just around the corner from its Forres HQ on the Greshop Industrial Estate.
Despite there being a small delay due to winter weather Allan Martin said the project went well.
“The main structure for the extension used approx. 7 tonnes of steel. The extension went into the existing courtyard at the previous main entrance at M&C. The old revolving door which had been out of use for a number of years and now, the team at M&C has a very striking new entrance to be proud of.
“The new glazed entrance looks phenomenal and the way the new extension ties in with the existing building is really very clever and looks very natural, as though it was always there.
“We also reclad the side wall of the existing building with composite sheeting and a cement board partial rain screen to create an architectural feature.”
The 500sqm extension also boasts solar panels, air source heat pump and under floor heating and the reason for the development is so that M&C, a family run business can increase retail space to offer more gardening and outdoor living products.
Allan said: “Although there were a lot of different local contractors involved, the project was managed very well by Ali Wilson from M&C. They had several coordination meetings with ourselves and the other suppliers to ensure the project went smoothly and apart from the weather at the beginning, which to be honest can only be expected for a January start, it went very well indeed.”
Peter Wilson, owner of Mackenzie & Cruickshank which is this year celebrating its 20th birthday at the site said: “We are absolutely delighted with the end result and to have worked with so many great local companies and in particular AJ Engineering. The result speaks for itself, and the customers love it. There’s a real atmosphere when you walk into the building now and we are very pleased.”
