Case study

School of Engineering

Client: University of Manchester
In 2004 the Victoria University of Manchester merged with UMIST, triggering the need for much new build and refurbishment. We were appointed on a five year framework contract to design and deliver a wide range of refurbishments and redevelopments. Alterations and extensions to the buildings forming the School of MACE included new structures, strengthening of internal loading bay floors to carry vehicle loadings, and converting office areas to create new dynamics laboratories.

Added value
The aspirations of the Users had to be balanced with the budget. We assessed a range of ideas against their effect on the existing structure, and identified those with the most gain for the least structural work.  This relied on early research into the construction of the buildings by locating record drawings and running calculations to assess the impact of changes.  Construction was phased to allow continuing occupancy, and we supported the contractor, including advising on the protection of occupied areas and of experimental apparatus near the construction work.

Services supplied

• Structural engineering
• Survey, investigation and assessment
• Feasibility and option studies
• Developing solutions in an operational environment
• Detail design and supervision