Project Description
MPH build for the future at Birstall Pre-School with a prefabricated classroom, another innovative modular construction project
Closely following the success of a similar modular building project at Broad Oak Nursery, MPH was appointed as design and build contractors for the proposed modular prefabricated classroom at Birstall Pre-School. A site was earmarked for the project and a pressing timescale was finalised, as the existing nursery awaited the move to the new purpose-built facility. Working in conjunction with a team of project architects appointed by the local council to oversee the management of the grant-funded scheme, the MPH design team immediately drew up preliminary plans based on a 223 square metre portable building footprint.
Prefabricated Classroom At Birstall Preschool – Design & Concept
As a condition of local planning department approval, the proposed modular prefabricated classroom building incorporated a number of design options to compliment the surrounding architecture, including a brick facing external wall finish and a pitched roof construction. In consultation with the existing nursery staff at the design stage, a number of additional features were also introduced and the internal layout was reconfigured to incorporate the changes. Designs differ greatly from project to project, based around client preferences, planning and site restrictions. At MPH, we offer a full design and draughting service, working closely with customers from the formative project stages and throughout the build process to produce fully resolved bespoke designs. On this occasion, an open plan layout was requested, with a fully-fitted kitchen area and a flexible sliding partition to divide the space as required.
Upon confirmation of the final design, the construction process commenced at our manufacturing facility, alongside the enabling groundworks on site. The building was to be located on an existing playing field; as a green field site, this required clearing prior to any construction works. During the excavation process for the foundation bases, a number of existing cellars were unexpectedly unearthed by the specialist MPH groundworks team. Drawing upon a proud record of over 40 years of industry experience, this hurdle was swiftly overcome without any impact on the overall project timescale or budget.
Due to a combination of site security issues, a truncated build programme and strict funding conditions, the project was unsuitable for traditional build methods. Utilising modular building systems, at MPH we remain flexible in our design approach and offer innovative, bespoke solutions to challenging construction projects. By factory-fitting both the brick-slip exterior facade and pitched roof design prior to delivery, we were able to conquer the difficulties of an inaccessible site and significantly reduce the build programme in order to meet the deadline for the opening of the pre-school.
Following the fast-track manufacturing and preparatory phase, the structure was delivered to site and efficiently installed. Connections were made to existing services and specialist M&E works were completed, including heat/cool air conditioning and specialist door-entry systems. Building Regulation compliant and conforming to all DDA (Disabled Discrimination Act) design requirements, the modular and portable building incorporated a full external works package comprising:
external landscaping scheme
full building works package encompassing foundation sub-structure, drainage and provision for all services
tarmac surfaced car park with removable entrance security posts
DDA compliant access steps and ramps with powder-coated key-clamp handrails
brick constructed perimeter sub-floor skirt
paladin security fencing to site perimeter
Feedback After Completion Of The School Prefabricated Classroom
The client, staff, council representatives and project architects all declared themselves delighted with the project. Philip Aspden from JYM Partnership commented: “MPH have proved themselves an extremely flexible contractor, with a positive attitude to contract variations and claims. The two schemes that they completed were undertaken within tight timescales and difficult agreement of client requirements. Both schemes were delivered on time and to budget.”
To read more about the project please visit:
http://www.batleynews.co.uk/community/pre-school-s-party-for-first-birthday-1-4135832
https://mphbuildingsystems.co.uk/24042012/birstall-pre-school-one-year-on/
http://www.batleynews.co.uk/news/local/ready-teddy-go-for-playtime-at-penny-s-1-3979236