Case Study- Sulis
Client- IHP
Contact-
Programme- 25 weeks
Contract Value- £7,400,000.00

Scope
The scope of works involved the construction of a full modular superstructure. Once the modular structure was in place, a conventional onsite fit out was carried out to complete the internal finishes.
Additionally, three air handling systems were installed, with two Ultra Clean Ventilation (UCV) canopies in each theatre to ensure optimal air quality and ventilation.
The electrical system featured an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) backup, providing reliable power continuity in case of electrical failure. To ensure redundancy, dual electrical systems were implemented so that if one system failed, the other would continue to operate without interruption.
A fully integrated and metered Building Management System (BMS) was installed to monitor and control the mechanical and electrical systems of the building, ensuring energy efficiency and system performance.
The project also included the construction of a fully functional commercial kitchen, capable of serving the needs of both the new and existing buildings.
Finally, 167 solar panels were installed to support sustainable energy use, reducing the overall environmental impact of the building.

Innovation
For the first time, Actiform utilised a standing seam external cladding system, carefully selected to match the aesthetic and design of the existing building. This innovative approach ensures a seamless integration, enhancing the overall architectural cohesion while maintaining the high standards of quality and durability.

Environmental
The Sulis Elective Orthopaedic Centre is the most environmentally sustainable building to be constructed at Sulis Hospital. It reflects the hospital’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact through energy efficiency and the use of sustainable materials. Notably, solar panels and air source heat pumps have been installed, significantly cutting energy consumption and reducing carbon emissions. The building also incorporates low embodied carbon materials, promoting sustainability throughout both its construction and operation.
A 167-panel solar array has been installed to generate electrical power, further enhancing the building’s sustainability for our client. Additionally, the building has achieved an air permeability rating of 2.78 m³/hr, ensuring efficient energy use.
Social value
This new centre will prioritise enhanced access for NHS patients to high-quality elective orthopaedic care, available throughout the year. The Sulis Elective Orthopaedic Centre (SEOC) will provide care for patients from Swindon, Wiltshire, and the surrounding areas on behalf of The Royal United Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. The centre will feature two new modular theatres, additional inpatient beds, extra day surgery pods, and the conversion of two existing theatres to laminar flow.
The new centre has created a variety of new employment opportunities, including Registered Nurses, Theatre Practitioners, Physiotherapists, Pharmacists, and many others, across departments such as Day Surgery, In-Patients, Radiology, Endoscopy, and Hospital Administration.
Challenges
The integration with the existing hospital systems presented a significant challenge, as it was crucial to ensure that the transition and implementation of new systems did not disrupt the ongoing business operations of the hospital. The existing infrastructure had to be seamlessly integrated with the new systems, requiring careful planning and precise timing to avoid downtime or interruptions in critical services. Extensive coordination was required to schedule work around the hospital’s operational hours, minimising any potential impact on patient care, hospital staff, or general hospital functions. This meant working closely with hospital management to align project milestones with operational needs, all while maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols and minimising any disruptions to day-to-day hospital activities.
Another challenge involved the coordination of multiple trades and commissioning activities, both within and outside the scope of our contract and control. With so many different specialists and contractors involved, it was essential to ensure smooth collaboration and clear communication across all teams. This required meticulous scheduling, as well as frequent updates and adjustments to accommodate the different needs and timelines of each trade. Coordination was particularly complex when activities extended beyond the direct control of our team, as it required managing third-party contractors, ensuring their work met the required standards, and aligning their schedules with the overall project timeline. This level of coordination was critical to ensure that the project was completed on time, within budget, and without any conflicts or delays.