Brief
The University of Suffolk decided to embark on a strategic initiative to establish a dental development centre on their campus in Ipswich.
Our client wanted to operate this new facility with a dual mission of offering state-of-the-art dental teaching facilities for a new BSc dental therapy and dental hygiene course and a separate space for a Dental Community Interest Company offering NHS dental treatments enhancing the NHS dental services available in Suffolk and North East Essex. Concertus were appointed to provide Project Management and Quantity Surveying services at RIBA Stage 3 through to project completion.
Key Info
Location:
Ipswich, Suffolk
Contract Type:
JCT 15 STDXQ
Client:
University of Suffolk
Contractor:
Barnes Construction
Completion Date:
January 2024
Project Value:
£3,000,000 approx.
Disciplines:
Project Management, Quantity Surveying + Cost Consultancy
Imagery
Scope
During the detailed design phase, our project team meticulously evaluated aspects such as buildability, construction methodologies, material availability, market dynamics, national and regional cost trends, risks, maintenance expenses, and the need for futureproofing considering technological advances and regulatory demands. These considerations were crucial in guiding the final choice of materials and components for the building.
The procurement process for this project demanded a novel approach due to the specific timelines associated with the University’s educational provision requirements. Our Surveyor delivered procurement training to the University’s internal team, helping them understand construction options that would directly benefit the dentistry scheme. The Suffolk Construction and Building Services Framework was identified as the preferred route for the procurement of the main contractor however, due to its imminent re-procurement, the originally planned timeframe for the project tendering period was shortened significantly. Through immediate mobilisation, continuous coordination and collaboration with the Client and appointed design team, we established a strict programme for the development of tender documentation which ensured compliance with Framework cut-off periods and allowed a valid tender process to be established.
Upon appointment, our Quantity Surveyors undertook a comprehensive review of the budget at RIBA Stage 3 design, revealing a budget overspend, which underscored the importance of integrating value engineering into the design process. We also pinpointed any unidentified risks to ensure they were properly managed, mitigated, and refined, and the design details were refined to eliminate potential project risks. By identifying specialist design requirements early on, we minimised contract modifications and effectively managed risk, ensuring the timely and efficient delivery of equipment and dental systems.
Throughout the procurement phase, our design and delivery partners, the University of Suffolk Barnes, Concertus, and KLH, with support from JS&H were committed to maximising Social Value, generating a £1.34 million impact on the Suffolk economy. Local employment opportunities were optimised with Apprentices given the opportunity to work on the project, and training for university staff and students was provided. Local organisations were also chosen for sub-contract orders where viable. This local approach contributed to the sustainability of the project, minimising the carbon footprint of the scheme. Additionally, team members supported STEM programmes for local schools, fostering educational development and interest in construction.
Repurposing existing structures and spaces is a cornerstone of the University Estate and Facilities Teams’ approach to sustainability across their estate. Together with the client and designers we incorporated sustainable practices throughout the construction process, yielding multiple benefits such as installing LED lighting with dimming capabilities and motion detection, recycling materials like ceiling tiles, achieving a 98% diversion of waste from landfills, and utilising low-carbon technology in the construction.
Our Project Management team ensured adherence to industry standards, aiding the client in meeting RPA (Radiation Protection Advisor) guidelines for installing new specialised equipment. This entailed fostering a comprehensive understanding of technical specifications among the entire team and facilitating the efficient coordination of layouts and materials, including using lead-lined walls and doors. Such measures allowed for swift updates to specifications and the allocation of appropriate contingency funds, thereby minimising the impact on project costs and crucial operational timelines.
Testimonial
“The creation of the Dental Development Centre on our Ipswich Campus has been an integral part of the University’s ambition to offer a wide range of courses in the health and wellbeing sector as well as responding to the NHS long-term workforce plan. Working with Concertus has allowed us to utilise our estate to the best effect, benefiting both our students and local community.”
Nigel Lucker, Director of Estates and Facilities, University of Suffolk
Result
Collaborative working between the Project Manager, Quantity Surveyor, Architect, Contractor, and Client was essential to the progression and cohesive delivery of the project.
The facility is an established 1,385 square feet of advanced clinical simulation and treatment spaces across two levels. The initiative offers distinct spaces for teaching and for a public-facing dental treatments through a Community Interest Company. The upgrade includes ten cutting-edge treatment rooms equipped with the latest technology, setting a new standard for future NHS dental training and services.
The layout mimics a natural clinical environment with spacious dental practices, corridors, and technician rooms, enhancing student observations and providing immersive learning opportunities. The design prioritises the flow of space, views from windows, and ceiling heights while also ensuring cost-effectiveness and compliance.
Engaging stakeholders extensively and maintaining proactive communication and coordination further ensured the project’s success. This approach facilitated the smooth integration of specialist providers, who were crucial in delivering the necessary university equipment and specialised dental instruments and systems for both the First Floor Teaching Facility and the Second Floor Dental Practice. Through the application of our mature value engineering process, governed by our ISO9001 accredited Quality Management System, we achieved several cost savings including conducting a review of original specifications to adapt items such as changing rock-clad window blanking to black-painted MDF which matched aesthetics of the building. This strategy also led to reducing the project timeline by five weeks.
The innovative nature and success of this project have not only benefitted the University of Suffolk but have also captured the attention of the NHS. It is now viewed as a pioneering model for providing combined dental training and services, offering a strategic solution to the nationwide scarcity of NHS dental appointments.