Case Study – Healthcare

Project: Rose Lodge Hebburn
Architect: MAAP
Main Contractor:  Laing O'Rourke

Rose Lodge Hebburn

Rose Lodge is a specialist centre for the assessment and treatment, within an inpatient environment, of working age adults with a range of learning disabilities. Laidlaw has worked alongside Laing O'Rourke and specialist architects MAAP for many years on Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust projects. As such, a strength of relationship has been established based on the specialisation of and trust betweem all parties.

Laidlaw Solutions Anti-ligature range of stainless steel door furniture was chosen in keeping with MAAP Architects' brief to create modern and safe facilities that respect the privacy and dignity of service users. The local NHS Foundation Trust also required the building to be future proofed to a "medium secure" level, so anti-ligature products included Bedroom, Washroom and Communal Room Locksets, all with primary or secondary barricade features. 12 en-suite bedrooms were created for all the specific needs of Acute, Enhanced and Supported Care, utilizing a "Swing" bedroom layout to allow flexibility of admissions. Activity and day space located between wards nurture interaction, and space is available for quiet and therapy rooms. The environment will be on of the intensive use, so the choice and performance of the door furniture was key. Laidlaw Business Development Manager Clint Robertson commented, "The interior emphasis in such secure environments has changed dramatically and the extended range of co-ordinated Orbis Anti-ligature door furniture has provided greater design scope. Long-term performance of door furniture for our client is critical, so the 10-year guarantee is invaluable".

The £6.1m centre will provide intensive help and treatment for health problems such as epilepsy and is supported by a team of health professionals and specialists who will determine each individual's complex needs. Construction was undertaken under ProCure21 procurement for publicly funded NHS Capital Schemes, the fast track timber framed construction being undertaken by Laing O'Rourke. Their Project Manager Joe Jefferson, added "Laidlaw performed extremely well, contributing enormously to the scheme. They were a very influential part of the delivery team, enabling a successful conclusion to the project".

The project has been submitted to the 2010 RICS Awards in the Community Benefit category.

Photographed by Colin Davison.