Case Study
Blackpool Victoria Hospital:New Laundry Building RAAC
01 / Case Study
Blackpool Victoria Hospital: New Laundry Building RAAC
The Blackpool Victoria Hospital - New Laundry Building RAAC project successfully replaced a health-risky laundry building with a new, sustainable facility that prioritising staff well-being and environmental responsibility.
Location / Blackpool
Contract Value / £7.4m
Architect / Gillingdod
Client / Blackpool Victoria Hospital
Completion / 2023
02 / Overview
Overview of the Blackpool Victoria Hospital: New Laundry Building RAAC project
To address the critical health and safety risks posed by RAAC concrete in the existing laundry building, DSSR undertook a comprehensive project to demolish and replace the structure.
The new facility included a multi-storey laundry with dedicated clean and dirty linen areas, staff amenities, and medical record storage. Additionally, a car park was constructed on the cleared site. DSSR assumed responsibility for the entire M&E package, encompassing demolition, construction, and car park development. Successful project delivery required close collaboration with hospital administration, demolition and construction teams, and staff representatives. Our expertise in M&E engineering, combined with open communication and stakeholder engagement, was instrumental in overcoming challenges and ensuring project timelines were met.
Creating a Therapeutic Environment
Prioritising staff well-being, the new laundry building incorporated dedicated rest areas designed to be bright and airy, providing a much-needed respite from the demanding work environment. The inclusion of well-equipped changing rooms, secure storage, and hygienic facilities further enhanced the overall staff experience. By creating a therapeutic environment, the project aimed to improve morale, reduce stress, and boost productivity among laundry staff.
Sustainable Design and Innovation
Sustainability was a core principle guiding the project. A 200kWp solar PV system was installed, generating 175kWh of electricity annually and reducing energy consumption by 25%. The adoption of electric-powered mechanical plant systems and air source heat pumps minimised the environmental impact and contributed to the project’s net zero carbon goal. Daylight dimming and presence control lighting further enhanced energy efficiency. Despite challenges such as adverse weather conditions, evolving COVID-19 restrictions, and complex infrastructure integration, the team’s resilience and innovative approach ensured the project’s success.
Overcoming Challenges and Delivering Excellence
The project faced numerous obstacles, including persistent bad weather, evolving COVID-19 protocols necessitating building use changes, and the complexities of relocating existing generators and integrating the new system with the hospital’s infrastructure. Through determination and ingenuity, the team successfully navigated these challenges. The project’s outcome is a testament to the commitment to environmental responsibility, innovation, and the creation of a high-quality, sustainable laundry facility that prioritises staff well-being.
DSSR has been an invaluable partner in Blackpool Victoria Hospital's transformation. Their commitment to delivering a zero-carbon, efficient, and staff-centric RAAC solution is evident in the project's success. By navigating the complex site constraints and collaborating seamlessly with all stakeholders, DSSR has made a significant positive impact on the Trust's estate. Their professionalism, patience, and effective communication throughout the design process were exemplary.
Roger Smith, Director of ESE Project Management Ltd.
