Shanco has completed the groundworks for a new modular building at HM Prison Wymott, Preston, which will create additional space for staff and offices. The project was completed on behalf of PMA (Services) Ltd., which specialises in refurbishments for the Ministry of Justice.

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An existing concrete service yard, which was no longer in use, was sawcut, broken out and excavated by Shanco. Drainage was then installed as well as cable ducting along a 50m trench enabling services to reach the new unit. The working area was located next to the staff car park, so measures were put in place to prevent any disruption. Debris netting was erected during the sawing and breaking out to protect from any flying concrete particles and dust suppression was employed. Deliveries were tightly controlled due to the restricted space on site. To support the modular building, a reusable foundation system was installed by Shanco. Manufactured from recycled plastic, ‘Jackpad’ is a proven alternative to traditional concrete foundations in appropriate circumstances.

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The final part of the project involved external works to create additional car parking for the building on redundant space nearby. After breaking out the existing kerbs, Shanco carried out a reduced dig prior to installing a new reinforced concrete slab. This enabled 7 car parking bays to be created. Shanco was also responsible for white lining and installing bollards as well as an Armco barrier to protect the new modular unit.

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Tom Rowling, SHEQ advisor at Shanco, said: “This was our first project for PMA (Services) and followed a recommendation from the manufacturer of the modular building. Our knowledge of modular construction ensured a quick and efficient groundworks solution, which minimised disruption and enabled the new unit to be delivered on time. “