MTX has completed complex groundworks for the new Endoscopy unit in Phase 2 of the new Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust (NCA) Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) in Oldham, one of the largest in the UK.
The Modern Methods of Construction specialist says the application of MMC principles and the use of structural modules – pre-manufactured offsite while the groundworks are under way, are enabling it to deliver the high-quality healthcare facility ‘faster, safer, greener, and more cost-effectively’ than traditional building techniques.
Preparing foundations for the new two-storey Endoscopy unit involved the removal and disposal of a substantial quantity of contaminated soil at the former factory site, and construction of a retaining wall to buttress the sloping site. The location includes a basement area and a former reservoir, which required specific measures to ensure effective site drainage.
MTX Project lead, Gareth Roberts, explained: “MTX has worked extensively with the structural engineer to find a cost-effective solution for the groundworks, taking into account the challenges inherent in the site. The ground remediation strategy was developed throughout the design stage. After thorough site investigations we created a detailed plan for dealing with the challenges and creating the foundations for the new unit, while at the same time MMC structural modules were manufactured off site to shorten the project duration.
Construction of the 1,800m² Endoscopy Unit will involve using precisely engineered factory-built structural steel units craned into position.”
The accommodation comprises three endoscopy procedure rooms, four consulting rooms, a waiting room for around 20 people, recovery areas, and ancillary accommodation. The first floor is occupied by an enclosed plantroom towards the rear of the building.
The Oldham CDC is a commercial partnership between the NCA, which runs The Royal Oldham Hospital, and Alliance Medical, working alongside partners including Oldham Council, NHS Greater Manchester, and NHS England. It is one of the country’s largest out-of-hospital diagnostic centres.
The Endoscopy unit is part of the Phase 2 development of the Oldham CDC in Salmon Fields, Royton, that opened in December 2022. Since opening, it has served over 30,000 patients in the region, with capacity set to increase when the new unit is operational.
