A technical training site for Severn Trent Water and officially opened by Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been delivered by East Yorkshire’s Integra Buildings.
One of the biggest contracts it has ever served, the team used cutting-edge modular construction methods to deliver the 2,100 sq m facility.
It comes in a month that saw it receive planning consent for a major expansion of its own. Integra is developing six acres of land next to its site in Paull, with work to start later this year.
The Severn Trent Academy in Coventry represents a £10 million investment in skills and training. The versatile facilities provide a variety of traditional and experimental training environments, from hands-on areas designed to replicate work in the field, to use of the latest technologies in virtual reality and network simulation computer modelling.
The energy-efficient building also houses an extensive suite of stylish rooms and breakout areas for hosting conferences and educational events.
Mr Johnson was drawn to it as the utility provider is a key part of the Kickstart scheme, describing the set-up as “world class”.
Integra completed the development in a year from the design stage to handing over the keys, despite Covid-19 challenges. It is described as a prime example of how modern modular techniques are transforming the construction sector by delivering major projects faster and more efficiently than traditional methods, without compromising on quality.
Managing director Gary Parker said: “We’re delighted that the Prime Minister has praised the new academy, which looks superb inside and out. Working closely with Severn Trent, our team has delivered a first-class training environment with cutting-edge facilities.
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“It’s a great example of how our innovative approach to bespoke modular building allows us to meet even the most challenging design briefs while delivering faster and more cost-effective results for the client.
“To do that while dealing with the challenges of Covid, especially during the uncertainty of the first lockdown, represents an outstanding achievement by our team, partners and suppliers.”
The 2,100 sq m facility is made up of 45 modular units, which were built on the Humber Bank then transported by lorry to the West Midlands. Working alongside Webb Gray Architects, Integra completed the design phase in just eight weeks.
Key aspects pushed the boundaries of what can be achieved with a modular build.
Mr Parker said the roof would have been too high to be transported by road, so the team designed an innovative extendable frame that allowed the height to be achieved in situ.
Integra also laid down robust, waterproof floors in rooms designed to replicate the challenges faced by engineers, such as working with pressurised pipes.
Severn Trent construction project manager Zoe McPhilbin said: “It was great to work with Integra in helping us create our new academy that will be so valuable in providing skills and opportunities for our people and communities.
“The design aspirations for our academy have been met in full, which clearly demonstrates how Integra shared the same values and ambitions as ourselves on delivering such an amazing space in which to learn.”