Unite, James Leicester Halls

This scheme was to construct 557 student halls of residence.

The project required conversion of an inherited scheme with planning permission into a modular build scheme with a need to deliver a 15% cost saving against estimate. The client also sought to maximize the offsite manufacture opportunities.

The project was constructed with the following key drivers:

  • Off site modular construction to produce high quality end product
  • Renewable technology as the primary heat source using a CHP system
  • Green roof and associated BREEAM related designs

The modular construction involved 590 separate bedroom, and kitchen units being designed, fabricated, and fitted out at a factory in Stroud. These were transported to the site and craned into place around structural cores which added to the overall structural stability of the building. The modular elements of the build went up to 8 storeys. The modules were then clad to provide the building water tightness, and the internal fit out of corridor space and cores commenced.

The scheme delivered 29% renewal figures inline with the planning permission, and generate surplus energy through renewable means to export back to the local REC.

Architects:

Hadfield Cawkwell Davidson

Structural Engineer:

Meinhardt

Services Consultant:

Synergy

Completion Date:

July 2010

Project Timescale:

64 weeks