Gilberts is supporting Conlon Construction enabling Lancashire Constabulary to deliver facilities and services that are fit for purpose in line with changing laws.
The Blackpool ventilation manufacturer has supplied more than 300 air movement and control units for the refurbishment of Skelmersdale Police Station. The project follows Gilberts’ provision of similar for one of the Constabulary’s main Operating Centres two years ago.
The Skelmersdale refurbishment is being undertaken by Conlon Construction supported by Pick Everard and James Mercer Group Mechanical Engineers. In addition to upgrading the façade, the interior is being remodelled and upgraded to create efficient, collaborative spaces appropriate for current and future policing requirements.
As part of its works, James Mercer has installed Gilberts’ GSFE circular swirl diffusers and GECA eggcrate grilles at all levels throughout the building, to provide dedicated supply and extract airflow. The general air movement units are complimented by Gilberts’ Firegard FG2 and FG3 high velocity ductwork smoke and fire dampers and DUC fire dampers rated to deliver up to four hours’ protection against penetration of smoke and fire, managed by some 80 control modules.
Gilberts’ GSFA circular swirl diffusers will rapidly deliver fresh air into all conditioned spaces. The omni-directional swirl effect discharge is projected horizontally for rapid entrainment and intermixing. Gilberts’ GECA eggcrate grilles extract the used air with 90 per centfree ventilation area. Gilberts’ Firegard curtain dampers feature bespoke angled locking ramps to ensure full blade closure to prevent the spread of flames through ductwork, providing a solid barrier to fire and smoke for up to four hours. Ductgard engineered smoke and fire dampers adjoin the fire barrier wall, and fully close automatically.
In addition to manufacture, Gilberts has unrivalled technical support capability, including Computation Fluid Dynamics modelling software and a full in-house test laboratory at its 95000 sq ft head office, backed up by a heritage spanning 60 years.
Commented Michael Conlon, chairman of Conlon Construction: “The Constabulary is keen to promote the concept of Backing Lancashire. We concentrated on making use of the local supply chain, to ensure efficient use of resources, value for money and to ensure we deliver a lasting legacy beyond the build. Our focus has been to create a scheme that ensures Skelmersdale Police has the right working environment to provide a first-class service to the public.”
Cristina Marshall Head of Estates, Fleet and Facilities Management for Lancashire Constabulary added: “Our social value policy ensures that all resources are used wisely, whilst ensuring the efficient use of resources and delivery of value for money.”
The station is due to reopen in late 2021.