Operational Command Unit completed in Southampton
Building Services South’s Bristol office has recently achieved practical completion at Hampshire Police’s new Operational Command Unit in Southampton.
The £6.8m M&E project was delivered with main contractor Kier Regional through a framework agreement with Hampshire Police Authority and provides 8,400sq m of flexible accommodation over six-storeys. A 36-cell podium custodial suite has been created on the upper ground level, with the lower ground level providing storage and ancillary accommodation.
The project’s major challenges were overcome by the use of modular service and riser units which increased the speed and efficiency of the scheme. Kier Regional project manager Jonathan James said modularisation has keep the project to schedule: “We have seen huge benefits. Time saving is the key but also on the health and safety side with prefabricated modules minimising working at height.”
Although the new £31m police station doesn’t open for business until the end of March, Hampshire Police have taken occupation to practice the booking in processes to ensure they comply with all current regulations.
BBES contract manager Martin Ball said: “We’re adopting a soft landings strategy for three months to support the client whilst they get acquainted with their new building and its systems, however, only vetted contractors will have access as security on site is paramount.”
Posted: Tuesday 15 February 2011