As part of an ongoing commitment to reducing its carbon emissions, Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has upgraded the flat roofing over its original Community Hospital buildings with insulation and photovoltaic panels.
All works were undertaken while the hospital was open and a live site, but due to the roof’s size, the project was carried out in phases. For phase one, covering 5000 m over eight roofs, an in-depth roof condition survey by Langley found that the aged felt roofs and one raised asphalt area forming the main flat roof were all showing major deterioration, ‘posing an urgent health and safety risk’. This required a rapid resolution, but 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.
CWG Group, an approved Langley contractor, was appointed via the LHC Framework as principal contractor, with team of a full-time site manager and 25 roofing operatives coming together to deliver the extensive project.
Multiple potential combustible details were identified. One of the roofs had several failed rooflights, which CWG removed and upgraded. 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. Phase two will start later this year and will involve further extensive flat roof refurbishment, with minimal disruption to the hospital and its patients.
Langley said: “By utilising its 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. The refurbishment will also ensure that 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: “We are undertaking a significant programme of work to replace and upgrade the flat roofing across the site, enabling us to improve our estate’s energy efficiency and performance. This includes enhancing our roofing insulation, increasing the energy we produce on site, and reducing our carbon emissions. The service and work provided by Langley via its approved contractor, CWG Group, has been exemplary, and completed to a high standard within the initial outlined timeline. Its five-year maintenance check scheme ensures that we have its ongoing support as we continue our journey to become a more environmentally-friendly and energy efficient organisation.”
