Smethwick Renal Unit

We were approached in 2014 by University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust to discuss a potential renal dialysis unit in Smethwick and were subsequently invited to tender for the project which we successfully secured.  The full ‘design and build’ turnkey package involving the stripping out of an existing commercial warehouse unit to create a modern 44 bed renal facility in the heart of Smethwick, West Midlands.  The design challenges faced by the Sandycroft team were numerous and we worked closely with the Client and their team to deliver a scheme that overcame all likely problems without compromising the end product. The works entailed the following:

• Strip out of the existing warehouse including the subdivision of the unit to provide a fallow area which the Client could sublet in the future.
• External wall cladding and structural steel frame alterations in order to form new external window and door openings.
• Installation of underground drainage beneath the existing floor slab to suit the propose layout.
• High security external windows and doors
• Thermal upgrade of the building to meet current building regulations
• Internal partitions, doors and screens together with modern and compliant wall, floor and ceiling finishes
• Mechanical, electrical and water treatment installations.
• Externally a new drainage system was installed followed by a cycle store, bin store and carpark alterations.

Design and Construction Challenges:

Probably the biggest challenge on this scheme was to deliver a scheme that met a complex client brief whilst falling within budget and meeting a tight construction programme.

Conclusion

Ultimately the scheme was delivered on-time, on budget, to the highest standards and to the ultimate satisfaction of all concerned.

Graham Hackett who represented the Client as Project Manager said ‘From the outset, Sandycroft demonstrated a very professional and collaborative approach to the project and the process was managed very effectively both at design and construction phase.  The scheme was completed on time and within the agreed budget and moreover to the standards the trust expected.  Co-ordination of Employers Requirements from the University Hospital Birmingham Trust whilst maintaining a short, detailed design period.

Bringing the project in on budget and on programme to meet the Trust’s opening deadlines for patient treatments.