Client: Nottingham University Hospital

Project overview

In December 2020, a brand new £2.9 million intra-operative MRI scanner was officially unveiled at the Queen’s Medical Centre, after a significant two-year tripartite fundraising campaign between Nottingham University Hospitals Trust, Nottingham Hospitals Charity and the University of Nottingham.

The new iMRI scanner, housed in a purpose-built suite next to a surgical theatre, is used during children’s brain tumour surgery to help surgeons provide the best surgical outcomes for patients. It is also used for general diagnostic purposes for patients across the hospital.

Only a handful of these facilities are available in the UK, but this is the first intraoperative service to scan adults and children during surgery. It is considered the gold standard of care for neurosurgery patients.

  • £2.9 million facility
  • Modular building
  • Live environment
  • High sustainability requirements

BWB's role

Site investigations and geotechnical reporting

We played a vital role in the project by providing site investigations and geotechnical reporting essential for designing the foundations of the new MRI suite. This involvement ensured a robust and stable foundation for the state-of-the-art medical equipment.

Planning and designing connections

As part of the project, the new MRI scanner required intricate connections to existing MRI facilities and modular buildings. We played a pivotal role in the planning and design phases, ensuring seamless integration and functionality of the entire suite.

Steel frame design

Our expertise extended to the comprehensive design of the entire steel frame, encompassing the roof and floors. This design process ensured structural integrity and alignment with the project's requirements.

Drainage scheme and environmental assessments

We also provided drainage solutions for the project. This involved diverting existing Severn Trent water assets and aligning with environmental assessments to uphold sustainability standards within the project.