Balancing Sustainability with Medical Innovation

A major challenge in designing the centre was achieving full sustainability while incorporating advanced medical technology—all within a tight 12-month programme from Stage 3 to handover. The building is fully electric, eliminating fossil fuel reliance through the use of heat pumps and high-efficiency energy systems, while maintaining full HTM compliance with no derogations. Located on a new science park, it required an entirely self-contained design with independent utilities. Additionally, integrating quenchless MRI scanners presented technical complexities, requiring precise coordination to meet both operational and patient needs.

Sustainable and Efficient Engineering Solutions

To meet these challenges, MTX Contracts Ltd was engaged to deliver the building efficiently and sustainably. Roof-mounted air handling units (AHUs) provide dedicated ventilation to the scanner suites, with a separate unit serving ancillary areas. The AHUs are externally located and designed with a service corridor in compliance with HTM 03. Further enhancing its low-carbon footprint, the building incorporates a photovoltaic (PV) array at roof level, generating on-site renewable energy to support the all-electric design. The integration of Philips’ latest quenchless MRI scanners ensured safe and efficient operation, eliminating the need for traditional helium venting systems.

Collaborative Design & Rapid Delivery

The project’s success relied on several design workshops with the Trust and their authorising engineers, ensuring that all stakeholder requirements were met. DSSR provided specialist ventilation and control system designs to support the MRI scanner equipment, optimising performance and efficiency. Delivering a highly technical healthcare facility in just 12 months from Stage 3 to completion required meticulous planning and collaboration, demonstrating DSSR’s expertise in healthcare engineering and sustainable design.