Site Visit to Hotel Project for Oman Tourism Company (OMRAN)
Atkins is currently involved in the development of an iconic hotel project for the Oman Tourism Company (OMRAN). The project is situated at one of most prominent tourist destinations in Jabal Akhder, which is located at a height of 6000 feet from the sea level.
On his return from the ICE Middle conference, Ranganathan Subbaraman discussed sustainability issues that are cutting across projects around the world withint the built environment such as the newly constructed Dubai Metro mass transport system. Subsequently it was decided in January to carry out the site visit to Jabal Akhder so that members would get the opportunity to understand various sustainability aspects such as:
1) Implementation of Health and safety at the site to meet weather conditions and potential risk mitigation measures including medical facilities.
2) The project constraints including remoteness, terrain conditions of site.
3) The specific buildability aspects including material management in order to suit site conditions and specific needs.
4) Unique construction methodology, in particular to maximise utilisation of the existing local material, focusing on sustainability aspects
5) Reduction of carbon foot print by fewer concrete wall works
6) Strict and specific project requirements, including the buildings need to meet thermal resistance, weather proofing etc
7) Tight coordination and efficient supervision in place in order to carry out the construction work ahead of schedule.
8) An infinity swimming pool
Photo: Atkins construction site at Jabal Akhder, Oman