RAF Lakenheath USVF

The project involved revitalising and updating the building's reception areas and public restrooms, as the existing facilities were outdated and needed improvement, while the remainder of the building continued to operate.

Upon completion, the building featured new accessible public restrooms equipped with baby-changing facilities, making them suitable for all visitors. The reception area also received enhancements to improve access for guests, making Building 1082 more inviting for its intended users.

The project was completed on schedule, with expedited delivery achieved within seven weeks and budget. Additionally, 90% of the supply chain was sourced from within a 40-mile radius.

The project involved a complete refurbishment of a disused standby Alternate Armoury building. This included upgrading finishes and installing new mechanical and electrical systems, including a comprehensive ventilation and humidity control system, as the main building lacks windows.

Additionally, the project included the installation of gun storage racking and weapon and ammunition issuing ports, as well as repairs to the roof and external walls. New security systems were also implemented, including an external standby generator.

RG Carter carried out the initial enabling works including foundations, main service supplies and installation of a Temporary Modular Admin Facility building of approximately 33m x 12m consisting of an open plan office for 50 base personnel, server room, single occupant office, break out room and facility toilets.

The works were carried out just off the taxiway, with stringent processes followed by airfield construction waivers and crane permits including lifting plans, crane specifications and lifting heights being required.

The temporary unit itself was delivered to the site in 11 sections and directly craned onto cast concrete pads. Detailed coordination with Airfield Management and base Security Forces was required as access was along the runway perimeter road and taxiway, our Non-CMA driving permit escorts ensured safe delivery and that all protocols were followed.

The client observed that the building was in poor condition and unsuitable for personnel use in its existing state. RG Carter were appointed to strip back the building internally to its core and refurbish it both externally and internally into functional office space for multiple units on the base.

The scope of work included typical refurbishment tasks such as replacing windows, doors, and floors, upgrading the existing MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) services, redecorating, and reconfiguring the layout to provide a building that is fit for purpose.

During construction, changes in design were required to accommodate new occupants. These changes were managed collaboratively with the client, ensuring that project momentum was maintained, and the original completion date was achieved.

The project involved expanding the existing gravel car park to create additional space for the growing user base and upgrading it to a macadam hard-surfaced parking lot. We collaborated with the client to find the best solutions that would maximize the number of additional parking spaces. The final plan included an additional 800 square meters of hardstanding, providing 12 to 15 lined parking spaces. As part of our scope of work, we conducted a four-week archaeological dig that uncovered an old burial ground, which we prepared before laying the hard standing.

This existing dining facility needed an upgrade as the existing building was looking tired. We were appointed to undertake a full refurbishment to the kitchen and servery area. Works included breaking out the existing flooring and replacing with new, installation of a new servery counter, white rock, MEP upgrades and more.

To accommodate for the works to be undertaken, the existing users had to temporarily vacate the building. In addition to this, we also decorated the dining hall simultaneously, providing a completely revitalised dining facility for the base. All works were completed within a 20-week construction period.