| Project: 3 GP Practices / Pharmacy Size: 750 sq metres Commenced on-site: October 2004 Completed: October 2005 |
GPI Project Director: Kevin Gelder, Senior Development Surveyor North East Architectural Design: Bowker Sadler Ltd Construction: Wildgoose Construction Ltd Employers Agent & CDM Coordinator: Stephen Davies Associates Ltd |
 In Monton, Salford, Greater Manchester three single handed practices were operating from out-dated converted premises in cramped conditions with serious DDA and Health & Safety issues, not least rat visits from the Bridgewater canal. As well as the overwhelming need for change, the doctors aspired to provide modern health services from a new purpose-built, healing environment that would welcome both patients and staff. GPI were selected as preferred partner after viewing other nearby primary care centres which highly recommended us. Speed, experience and value for money were just some of the reasons GPI was chosen as third party developer despite it being a LIFT area. GPI worked closely with the doctors to understand their aspirations and how to accommodate the distinct practices independently whilst interacting well via shared accommodation. GPI’s project manager, acting as the primary point of contact, coordinated our team of locally experienced professionals to turn several significant challenges into opportunities. Extensive searching established there were no viable alternative sites; the existing site was the only route forward. By purchasing the site GPI provided a smooth, successful exit strategy for the doctors. The limited triangular space with a canal and main sewer on one side, an electrical substation and high voltage over-head cables on another and a private road on the last required imaginative design, especially beside the canal in the Monton Conservation Area. Careful negotiations enabled the purchase of additional land to provide on-site parking and permission from the Local Authority to procure and place temporary accommodation on the adjacent green. After extensive consultation with doctors, staff, the PCT and public a creative design, maximising the potential of the site and its surroundings built on three floors so as to meet practice needs, was agreed and also deemed ‘Value for Money’ by the District Valuer. It also houses a local pharmacy operator improving convenience for both patients and practices. Following an 11 month demolition and construction period, the new primary care centre was completed on time and on budget providing modern and welcoming accommodation for patients and staff and allowing the practices to develop their services without physical constraints. The strong relationship between GPI and practices continues with our dedicated Facilities Management team providing a maintenance programme and always on hand to ensure that the building continues to fulfil the doctors’ aspirations. |
