Willmott Dixon Interiors has handed over a new state-of-the-art children’s audiology testing centre in Brighton.
The fit-out and refurbishment specialist contractor has completed the £2.1m design and build project at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital (RACH) on behalf of University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust (UHSussex).
The new 1,870sq ft testing facility contains four purpose-built audiology booths, as well as new office space, a repair room, and a vestibular room for balance and sensory testing.
It will allow the paediatric audiology department to relocate from the adjacent Barry Building, which is earmarked for demolition, and integrate its existing services with the main children’s hospital.
Awarded by Procurement Hub Framework, the project saw the demolition and stripout of former administration and office areas at RACH to create space for the new centre.
And Willmott Dixon Interiors has installed new structural steel in the building, alongside new raised floors, fire doors, and live services.
Built to a high acoustic standard, finishes include acoustic vinyl flooring and acoustic ceilings throughout.
The 32-week project was delivered within a live, 24/7 hospital environment, and was completed two weeks earlier than programmed.
And items including radiators, lighting, and ceiling tiles have been salvaged for use elsewhere within the hospital, with 99% of construction waste was diverted from landfill.
Graham Shaw, managing director at Willmott Dixon Interiors, said: “Delivering a project of this size within a functioning hospital environment is never easy.
The building was delivered two weeks ahead of deadline
“We have also had to put strict dust control measures in place and navigate challenging site logistics throughout the duration of the build.”
James Millar, deputy director of capital development and property at UHSussex, added: “The new children’s audiology testing centre delivers a world-class environment for staff and patients in Brighton.
“Our paediatric audiology teams do a tremendous job in the assessment and management of children’s hearing and hearing devices and these new and modern facilities will enable them to provide a more-streamlined service in a better, safer, and more-suitable environment.”
