Innovation first for HMP Featherstone 2
BBES’ project in partnership with Kier Build at HMP Featherstone 2 in Wolverhampton is incorporating the latest innovative systems designed by the project’s modular team and Modular Systems +, to maximise efficiency.
With a brief to provide a complete mechanical, electrical and power services solution, cutting-edge technology, which has never been used in a UK prison before, will be used in the £54m mechanical and electrical scheme. Fully serviced four-storey risers have been designed and manufactured including water and plumbing services, electronic water control panels, fire alarm systems and underfloor heating pipe work with a ‘plug and play’ solution to aid installation.
BBES started pre-construction activities on the £200m Category B prison in August 2009 with work starting on site, and in the Modular Systems + workshop in March 2010.
A skeleton team worked on site during the Christmas period and full operations resumed in the second week of January. The team is continuing with the installation of all external infrastructure including HV, LV cabling, heating, mains cold water and the hydrant ring main.
Other work currently includes installation of various plant skids and the continuation of the fit-out of the house blocks and associated buildings.
In early February, 14 off 10m long modules, each 4m high by 4m wide will be delivered and installed on the pre-prepared base which will form the modularised energy centre for the project. Kier Build will then erect the surrounding walls and roof for the facility.
Bill Hayes, Kier Build’s custodial framework director, has been involved with the project since the joint Kier/BBES tender submission, he said: “I had a clear idea of what we needed to create and after seeing the progress from the tender proposal to what is being manufactured by Modular Systems +, BBES has definitely delivered my vision for the project.”
According to project director, Andy O’Connor, innovative project programming will eliminate unexpected overruns throughout the process at Featherstone, he said: “A fully integrated ‘lean construction’ philosophy is being used to create maximum efficiency. We monitor the programme on a weekly basis to ensure the project will be handed over in accordance with the contractual sectional completion dates set out by our client.”
When complete in spring 2012, HMP Featherstone will comprise three 480-place house blocks and 13 ancillary buildings.
Posted: Tuesday 29 March 2011