Offsite Construction & Estate Planning; what can we learn from Covid-19
We all know that we need to be agile to overcome the unusual obstacles created by the Covid-19 crisis. It does make you wonder, could we have all been better prepared?
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A case study - being agile in China
During the peak of China’s outbreak, they were able to build a new hospital in 6 days. Impressive.
How did China deliver the new hospital? Many people across the UK couldn’t understand how this was possible.
But if you know the secret the answer is obvious. The new facilities were delivered through modular construction. The Chinese were able to manufacture the hospital ward units remotely in specialist factories, whilst the site itself was being cleared and flattened. As soon as clearance was complete the units were ready to leave the factory and be installed = super-fast construction.
Even with this method it’s still incredible. But they already knew what to do.
You may remember China had an outbreak of SARS in 2002-2004, similar to Covid-19. Sadly, it killed thousands. It also placed immense pressure on the medical infrastructure. As a result, the authorities had to take urgent action to stop the viral spread and treat patients. They learned that modular construction accelerates construction and completion that in turn speeds up patient treatment times. They knew what to do when Covid-19 hit.
Click on the image to view our Case Study for Bevendean School
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Traditional UK
Is that the same here in the UK? Not for many unfortunately. Within the UK we look to the traditional way of building, assuming that it is the only way. But is it the best way?
No, there is an alternative. We can demonstrate that the same building life span and quality is achievable through modular construction. Building modular extensions and building has proven itself to be an effective way to deliver new buildings and facilities fast, with minimal disruption to the site.
Forewarned is forearmed!
In usual circumstances the timeline for designing and delivering a new modular building to point of handover can be as little as 16 weeks. Faster if needed. However, to make this as seamless as possible anyone looking to exploit this time benefit must plan ahead.
Ensuring that you do all the preparation in advance means you are ready to ‘push the button’ to commence manufacture and complete the build soonest.
Our experience shows that the emphasis should always be on having detailed contingency plans. Whether it be a viral outbreak, or a building destroyed by fire or a need for extra space or a new building – if you have building designs, elevations, floor plans all in place you are minimising the impact of any unplanned event. It’s also paramount that you understand each element of the project such as who will construct the building, what internals do you need, where will they come from. Hard work but it pays off.
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Start now
By asking all the right questions now you can plan as much as possible. If you would like to understand modular building further or need help introducing contingency or scenario estates plans into your organisation, please get in touch with Modulek. We specialise in modular building and help to deliver schemes from conception to completion, which is why we are a favoured choice by many.
