Delivered through the Procure North West Framework, City Build has successfully completed three projects to refurbish and improve facilities on the Manchester Metropolitan University campus.
The works were completed outside of term time whilst the teaching facilities were not in use and there was a reduced number of people on campus. The three projects were managed concurrently, and the individual programmes were scheduled to ensure all the works were completed in time for the start of the Autumn term.
The projects delivered a range of services to suit the individual requirements of each department, including the reconfiguration of rooms and facilities to allow for better use of space and to improve the overall environments.
The Neuropsychology Department: Located in the modern and contemporary Brooks Building, the Neuropsychology department undertakes research and studies into human behaviour and brain function. Due to the sensitive nature of this research they required areas of the department to be soundproofed. City Build installed special 54db acoustic panelling, floor acoustics and acoustic doors to achieve the levels required. The department also benefitted from the removal of various existing walls and partitions and the creation of an observation room with mirrored glass. The design was developed by Bowker Sadler Architecture and ensured the various technical requirements were delivered in keeping with the original key design themes for the building, which included openness and informality.
John Dalton Computer Labs: The John Dalton Building is home to the faculty of science and engineering, which includes the four schools of healthcare science, computing, mathematics and digital technology engineering. This project was to undertake internal modifications to the Computer Labs across two rooms, including the removal of the internal wall between the rooms to create an open plan space capable of accommodating up to 80 students. The project also included the installation of new data points and desks, and a general refurbishment and redecoration to improve the overall environment.
The Business School: The Business School department is located in an impressive new building which has been designed to create an inspirational environment in which to learn. The third project completed by City Build was in the Counselling and Wellbeing department of the Business School. Six new offices were created which will add to the existing facilities. Designed by Day Architectural, the design was developed to tie in with the existing offices and provide a consistent environment. The team installed new glazed panels and partitions, a new kitchen and reception area, upgraded M&E, and also completed redecoration works.
City Build has a long track record completing works at Manchester Metropolitan University and a solid understanding of their requirement to provide state-of-the-art facilities which reflect the standard of teaching provided.
Ron Dodd, City Build’s Project Manager, commented on the project: “Despite the works being undertaken during the summer months there were still many people on campus and working inside the buildings. Our main consideration was therefore to ensure we achieved a safe working environment. We treated the working areas as ‘live environments’, planning logistics around the running functions of the building and the staff. Our team segregated the working areas and minimised the creation of dust and noise to reduce inconvenience to building users. City Build worked flexibly with the University to accommodate their requirements for additional works and to ensure these works were completed within the original contract programme or within an approved extension of time. The handover date before the start of the new term was critical and we mitigated any delays through careful programme management.”
Procure Partnerships Director, Robbie Blackhurst commented: “This series of refurbishment and upgrade projects is important to Manchester Metropolitan University in their mission to provide first class learning environments which help to inspire students. We were delighted Manchester Metropolitan University chose the Procure North West Framework to help successfully facilitate a high-value solution, which has been delivered in line with critical programme requirements.”
Faye Dolan, an esteemed professional and Framework Director at Procure Partnerships, boasts a rich and diverse career spanning seven years in the construction industry. Faye’s journey within Procure Partnerships began in 2018 as a Key Account Manager, initially overseeing the North West region and later extending her purview to the entire North.
