Case Studies

The project

Milton Keynes University Hospital (MKUH) NHS Foundation Trust has an ongoing commitment to reducing its carbon emissions, and through its sustainability strategy, has already cut emissions by 20%.

As part of this mission, and to meet increasing demand on services at the 550-bed healthcare facility, MKUH began the latest phase in its CO₂ reduction strategy.

This involved upgrading the flat roof over the original Community Hospital buildings to improve its thermal performance by installing insulation and Photovoltaic Panels (PV), as well as adding edge protection and creating access. All works were being undertaken whilst the hospital was open and a live site.

Due to the size of the flat roofs, works are being carried out in phases. For phase one covering 5000m² over eight roofs, an in-depth roof condition survey carried out by Langley found that the aged felt roofs and one raised asphalt area forming the main flat roof were all showing major deterioration, posing a health and safety risk. Therefore the project required a rapid resolution through an efficient procurement process. It was also important to use  a knowledgeable contractor that could react to the short lead-in period, project manage as budgetary/contract lead, and provide innovative solutions to on-site problems

The partnership

CWG Group, an approved contractor of Langley, was appointed via the LHC Framework as principal contractor to carry out the works, including co-ordination of, and responsibility for the relocation and moving of all roof-mounted plant. A team of a full-time site manager and 25 roofing operatives achieved delivery of the programme within budgets and timeframes.

CWG also extended penetrations with appropriate Langley solutions, including code 5 lead, ParaTrim and ParaFurb Outlets, to achieve the regulatory clearance above the new waterproofing.

Multiple potential combustible details were identified across the roof field areas, which were rectified using a self-adhesive torch-free solution around upstands, skirtings, outlets, flues and rooflights.

One of the roofs had several failed rooflights, which CWG removed and upgraded with Langley’s ParaRange modular rooflights. A triple skin construction with a translucent inner skin, the rooflights optimise thermal insulation while allowing diffused natural light inside without solar glare. A snap-on security frame was also fitted for site safety.

In co-ordination with the roof works, CWG further installed 2000 photovoltaic (PV) panels, supplied by Langley.

Phase two will start later this year and will involve extensive flat roof refurbishment, including the strip of the old, inverted roof system, and installation of a warm roof application using Langley’s TA-30 system. This comes with a free five-year asset management package and provides a 30-year guarantee, giving full assurance to the estate’s duty holders.

Lee Allen of CWG Group commented: “We have been part of LHC’s roofing framework for a number of years now, and it continues to demonstrate a high standard of customer service and quality delivery supporting the construction of better homes, buildings and communities. We have found frameworks offer a platform to facilitate long-term relationships between client, supplier, contractor, and other stakeholders, creating an environment that allows for ongoing improvements to be made. We chose the FR2 framework as it is the only supplier driven framework and has a reputable national preference."

“Utilising FR2 has enhanced the procurement process and increased the efficiency of our projects. It has saved us substantial time and cost from mitigating repeat bidding, supporting all parties involved."

The solution

With the extensive consumption of electricity in a hospital environment, MKUH demonstrates a benchmark in healthcare refurbishment. By utilising their flat roof estate to install a solar PV scheme, the Trust is supporting the future of both the local community and the environment by delivering renewable energy and a greener solution.

Refurbishment of the hospital estate also allows for the proficient care of the community, ensuring no operational theatres and other essential rooms are closed due to issues faced with aged and defected waterproofing.

Tony Marsh, Estates Services Manager at Milton Keynes University Hospital, said: “At the Trust we are undertaking a significant programme of work to replace and upgrade the flat roofing across the site, enabling us to improve the energy efficiency and performance of our estate. This includes enhancing our roofing insulation, increasing the energy that we produce on site and reducing our carbon emissions.

“The service and work provided by Langley via their approved contractors CWG Group has been exemplary and completed to a high standard within the initial outlined timeline. Their five-year maintenance check scheme ensures that we have their ongoing support as we continue our journey to become a more environmentally-friendly and energy efficient organisation.”

For more information about LHC's roofing and other frameworks, visit our Roofing Systems framework.