Merlin Entertainments

Project Overview

Smart CI Group were appointed by Merlin Entertainments to act as Principal Contractor on the redevelopment and change of use of the existing Creepy Caves attraction. Working closely with Merlin’s creative team, we transformed the site into a multi-purpose underground themed walkthrough attraction, delivering a full turnkey project from concept through to certification.
This project required strict compliance with building control, fire safety, and CDM regulations, while coordinating multiple contractors to meet the creative and technical demands of a world-leading attractions operator.

Scope of Works

Design & Compliance

Liaised with Merlin creative teams during the concept design stage to align technical delivery with creative vision.
Coordinated with the local Building Control Officer (BCO) across all development phases.
Engaged with the local fire officer from planning stage to final sign-off, ensuring compliant fire exit routes and compartmentation.
Acted as Principal Contractor, including submission of F10 notification and CDM compliance.
Provided full-time SMSTS qualified management throughout the project.

Turnkey Project Delivery

Site setup & welfare facilities – including security, signage, and compliant waste disposal.
R&D asbestos surveys to ensure safe demolition.
Demolition of all internal blockwork and theming back to shell & core.
Construction of new fire routes and stud partitions to meet safety and design requirements.
Management of incumbent contractors, including electrical and theming specialists.
HVAC installation to provide safe, comfortable, and efficient environmental control.
Coordination and submission of all documentation to obtain Building Control sign-off and certification.

Project Delivery

The project was delivered under a complete building control framework, ensuring compliance from start to finish. Our on-site management team coordinated multiple trades while maintaining strict health & safety standards. By liaising directly with creative and compliance stakeholders, Smart CI Group ensured both design intent and regulatory obligations were fully achieved.

Outcome

Smart CI Group successfully delivered:

A multi-purpose underground themed attraction, redeveloped to Merlin’s creative and operational standards.
Full compliance with fire safety, building control, and asbestos regulations.
A turnkey Principal Contractor service, managing demolition, construction, M&E, and incumbent contractors.
On-time project completion with full building control certification.

This project highlights our expertise in specialist attraction redevelopment projects, where creative vision, technical delivery, and compliance must align perfectly. Clients trust Smart CI Group for: