The project focused on upgrading the fire safety infrastructure across the hospital estate. Of particular concern was a roof void created by a lightweight Ash Jack pitched roof added in the 1990s over the original flat roof, which housed air handling plant and effectively functioned as an additional floor. This required suitable fire separation from the wards below.

The works were delivered in multiple phases and incorporated clinical improvements and backlog maintenance. We worked with Trust Fire Officers and independent fire engineering consultants to develop a general fire strategy and bespoke fire-engineered solutions.

The hospital is a live, 24/7 clinical environment, creating logistical complexity. Additional challenges included limited existing information on the original building fabric and services, tight programmes, budget constraints, and limited access and site accommodation. We also worked around embedded PFI-managed areas and overcame constraints posed by the lack of decant space.

Although the project centred on improving fire safety, the phased approach has allowed for additional improvements to the clinical environment for patients, staff, and visitors where opportunities have arisen.