A new clinical training centre with a simulated operating theatre and seven training suites has been completed at the University of Nottingham.
The 3,100 sq m facility is housed within the existing Pharmacy and Psychology building on Science Road at University Park. It will support the university’s School of Medicine, providing spaces where students can develop practical skills in simulated clinical environments.
Alongside the training suites and operating theatre, the centre includes four clinical skills training spaces, five classrooms, staff and student welfare areas, social spaces, offices and meeting rooms.
Midlands contractor G F Tomlinson carried out the refurbishment, which involved remodelling Level C, creating a new reception and replacing the building’s original reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) roof.
The lower floors remained occupied and operational throughout construction. The roof was replaced in phases using a rolling scaffold roof structure, with work planned around continued use of the building.
Energy improvements included new mechanical and electrical systems, additional roof and wall insulation, and the replacement of remaining single-glazed windows with double glazing.
AECOM managed the project, AHR Architects was the lead designer, and Waterman Structures Ltd provided civil, structural and geotechnical engineering services.
G F Tomlinson has worked with the university for more than 20 years. Previous projects include the Biodiscovery Institute, the Central Building refurbishment and the Hybrid Propulsion Systems Building.
According to the contractor, all project waste was diverted from landfill, while 77% of spending and 72% of labour were sourced from within 20 miles of the site. The project also provided 15 weeks of work experience and 128 apprenticeship weeks, alongside student site visits and careers activities.
Andy Sewards, chairman of G F Tomlinson, said: “Transforming an existing building into a modern, high-specification medical training facility while working within a live university environment required exceptional collaboration, careful planning and technical expertise from the entire project team.”
Professor Jane Norman, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Nottingham, said: “As a university with a strong tradition of excellence in medical education and research, we have a responsibility to help address the challenges facing healthcare and to prepare graduates who can make a real difference to patients and communities.”
