Salford Hospital
Ibstock, a leading manufacturer of high-quality bricks, played a crucial role in the successful delivery of the Salford Royal Hospital Bevan Intermediate Care Unit (IMU) project. This state-of-the-art, 60-bed rehabilitation facility was developed in response to the increasing need for intermediate care services within Greater Manchester. The project, commissioned by Salford City Council in partnership with the Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, aims to alleviate pressure on acute wards at Salford Royal Hospital by providing a dedicated space for patient rehabilitation.
The new IMU is a two-storey, low-rise development designed to blend seamlessly with its surrounding environment while providing a homely, residential feel. The facility features engaging and comfortable shared spaces on both floors, fostering social interaction and independence among patients. These shared areas include dining spaces, rehabilitation zones, and physiotherapy facilities, all meticulously designed to support patients in regaining their independence before transitioning back home or into the community.
Ibstock bricks were selected for the Salford Royal Hospital IMU project due to their superior quality, aesthetic appeal, and suitability for the project's specific architectural needs. The chosen brick, Ibstock's Amato Blend Buff Clay Facing Brick, provided the perfect blend of durability and visual harmony required for the facility’s exterior.
One of the most notable architectural features of the IMU is the stepped corbel brickwork design around the large exterior windows. To achieve this intricate design, IG Masonry Support's innovative B.O.S.S. A1 (Brick on Soffit System) was employed. This was one of the first instances where the B.O.S.S. system was utilised in a complex bespoke corbelled application, showcasing Ibstock’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of brick design and application.
The use of Ibstock bricks not only fulfilled the aesthetic and functional requirements of the project but also ensured a high-quality, long-lasting finish. The bricks' natural buff tone complemented the surrounding environment and contributed to the facility's residential feel, aligning perfectly with the client's vision.
The Salford Royal Hospital IMU project was a collaborative effort involving several key stakeholders. DAY Architectural, Mercury Engineering Consultancy, and MDA Structural were responsible for the design, while DAY Project Management Ltd managed the project on behalf of Salford City Council and the Northern Care Alliance NHS Group. Galliford Try served as the main contractor.
Throughout the project, Ibstock engaged in active dialogue with Salford City Council and the Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, ensuring that the brick selection and application met all necessary requirements and expectations. This collaborative approach was essential in delivering a facility that not only meets the immediate needs of patients but also supports the broader healthcare goals of the Greater Manchester community.
Ibstock’s involvement in the Salford Royal Hospital IMU project exemplifies the company’s expertise in providing high-quality brick solutions for complex and demanding projects. The use of Ibstock’s Amato Blend Buff Clay Facing Brick in this innovative and architecturally significant project highlights the company's commitment to excellence and its pivotal role in enhancing healthcare infrastructure.