The development of a new 4,500m² technical laboratory and office building at Victrex’s manufacturing site marked a significant expansion of their research capabilities. Working closely with this global polymer manufacturer, we delivered comprehensive mechanical and electrical design services for their new two-storey facility. The project required careful planning to maintain operations in the adjacent buildings while creating specialised laboratory spaces including polymer, SEM, chemistry, and applied technical areas. Our team’s attention to detail ensured the successful integration of complex technical requirements while maintaining site safety and minimal disruption to daily activities.
CLIENT: Victrex Manufacturing
VALUE: £6.6m
LOCATION: Preston, Lancashire
SERVICES: Mechanical & Electrical Design
CLIENT OBJECTIVES
Victrex required a new technical facility to enhance its research and development capabilities. The building needed to accommodate various specialised laboratories including polymer testing, SEM, chemistry, wet laboratories, and humidity-controlled environments. A key requirement was maintaining full operations in the adjacent IGTC office and production buildings throughout the construction phase. Site safety was paramount, with careful consideration needed for road access and pedestrian segregation. The facility needed to meet exacting standards for environmental control and safety while providing a modern, efficient workplace for technical staff.
OUR SOLUTION
We developed comprehensive mechanical and electrical systems designed specifically for the unique requirements of each laboratory environment. The design incorporated:
- Ventilation systems for chemistry and wet laboratories
- Environmental controls for humidity-sensitive areas
- Power supply systems for technical equipment
- Solar Photovoltaic panels
- Energy-efficient lighting design throughout office spaces
- Resilient backup systems for critical research areas
- Integration with existing site infrastructure
- Flexible services distribution
- Advanced building management systems
THE OUTCOME
The completed facility provides Victrex with enhanced research capabilities in a modern, efficient environment. Our designs successfully met all technical requirements while ensuring minimal impact on existing operations. The building now serves as a crucial hub for Victrex’s ongoing polymer development work, with reliable and efficient building services supporting their technical operations.
