Education construction project client
Streif UK was involved in an education construction project for Conquest Hospital in Saint Leonards-on-sea. The construction of a purpose-built nursery was procured through the East Sussex Healthcare Trust (ESHT) for the NHS. We collaborated with Cheesmur Building Contractors (main contractor) and HDS Architects to supply a high-quality sustainable new-build that East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust is “incredibly proud of”.
Education construction project brief
In early 2021, ESHT expressed their requirement of a purpose-built nursery at Conquest Hospital. The new-build was to replace a temporary building that was no longer fit for purpose.
Providing 55 places a day for children whose parents work for ESHT or the NHS, First Steps Nursery needed a fully accessible learning environment with enclosed outside play facilities.
The education construction project also had to help maintain the Hastings nursery’s high standards, including its Good OFSTED rating. With quality in mind, modular construction assembled on site was the best option.
Construction for Conquest Hospital Nursery was the first in several phased projects to allow further developments of the hospital’s facilities.
Education construction project solution and process
HDS Architects created a unique single storey design. This included steep pitched roofs with vaulted ceilings and large glazed arrays. Other features were dedicated baby and toddler areas, an office space, a kitchen and WCs.
The architects originally envisioned that the education construction project would be delivered as a volumetric offsite solution using shipping containers. But, following the initial design review, it was established a volumetric option would not be feasible.
However, the Streif UK advanced closed panel timer frame system with factory fitted Rationel AURAPLUS windows and doors – for excellent airtightness and insulation – worked wonders. The sustainable building system complemented the thermally efficient underfloor heating system and breathing building units for maximum comfort.
An external envelope combining coloured render panels blended with timber cladding gives a bright, colourful look. While an internal courtyard provides additional natural light and outdoor space.
Our lifting and installation works were on programme, taking just seven weeks of the entire eight-month construction project.
Look at this time-lapse video of the build and its results. We are sure you will agree this £1.1m educational building looks as fantastic as it is functional.
Read more about Streif UK’s involvement in this sustainable education construction project.
Education construction project results
East Sussex Healthcare Trust, Cheesmur Building Contractors and Conquest Hospital were delighted with the First Steps Nursery project.
In praise of our advanced building system, Cheesmur Building Contractors commented:
“Constructed in a live hospital environment, the project was to be completed within an eight-month programme period to ensure the facility was operational by the end of October 2021.
To achieve this, the innovative Streif modular system was utilised to improve both programme time and the overall efficiency of the build. The use of the Streif modular system also provided sustainability benefits in keeping with Cheesmur core values.”
At the nursery’s official opening in July 2021, Jacquie Fuller, Staff Engagement and Wellbeing Manager, East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust said:
“The new building and commitment by the Trust board to secure these facilities for our staff is fantastic. We are committed to supporting all staff in reaching and maintaining a good work life balance.
This amazing new facility ensures that, by providing flexible childcare on site, we can meet the demands of our workforce as well as supporting staff to return to work from maternity leave.
The childcare team have done an amazing job of settling into the new building and helping the children to get used to their new surroundings and they love it!”
We are proud to have helped transform this East Sussex learning environment with our building system that provides near Pasivhaus standards. Read more about our buildings for the education sector.
Contact us to discuss your own sustainable new build.
