Birch House – NHS Wirral University Teaching Hospital Foundation Trust
Project Scope
The scheme was delivered over a 20-week programme and centred on the safe removal of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) from the hospital’s existing structure.
The works involved:
- Installation of a new roofing system, designed to improve performance and resilience.
- Associated remedial works to strengthen and futureproof the building fabric.
- Careful phasing and sequencing of construction activity to ensure continuity of hospital operations.
- Implementation of temporary weatherproofing solutions during each stage of RAAC removal.
- Restricted access management, with all materials lifted and distributed using cranage.
- Protection of existing Fire Fighting Systems (FFS) and enhanced safeguards for the hospital’s critical safety infrastructure.
The project required meticulous planning, strict health and safety controls, and close collaboration with the client to ensure minimal disruption to patients, staff and ongoing clinical services.
Overcoming Challenges
To overcome these challenges, our team worked closely with the client and hospital management to develop a robust delivery strategy. Detailed phasing plans, coupled with strict health and safety controls, ensured works could progress smoothly without impacting daily operations.
Live Environment
Working within a live hospital environment brought significant logistical challenges, from the complex RAAC removal requiring carefully phased works and temporary weatherproofing, to restricted site access necessitating cranage for all material movements.
Fire Protection
At the client’s request, full protection of the existing Fire Fighting Systems (FFS) was also maintained, with additional measures to safeguard the hospital’s critical safety infrastructure.
Risk Mitigation
Close coordination with specialist subcontractors and the hospital’s estates team allowed us to mitigate risks, maintain clear communication, and deliver each stage efficiently.
“I am very pleased with the work recently completed by Krol Corlett at Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
The site was extremely well organised, and the project as a whole was managed to a very high standard. The team demonstrated professionalism throughout, and their coordinated approach ensured everything ran smoothly from start to finish.”
Social Value
Apprenticeships & Further Training
As part of our commitment to developing future talent, KC apprentice Izak Serrano has been actively involved in the delivery of this scheme.
Working alongside the site team, he has gained valuable first-hand experience in managing restricted access, coordinating material logistics, and navigating the challenges of a live healthcare environment.
His progress reflects both his dedication to learning and our ongoing investment in nurturing the next generation of construction professionals