Health Board Complex

The existing roof on the Glen Usk Wing was an aged and overly complex build-up, believed to date back to the 1960s or 70s. It featured a fleece-backed single-ply membrane above 50mm of PIR insulation, a 20mm asphalt layer, a 90–110mm concrete screed, and a 60mm woodwool slab supported by steel trusses. This multi-layered structure weighed over 300kg/m², creating safety and loading concerns. Many rooflights were outdated, fragile, or redundant, posing significant fall risks. Asbestos was present in the fascia boards and rooflights. Compounding these issues, the roof lacked permanent edge protection and access was highly restricted, necessitating a bespoke access and safety plan.

Working within a live mental health facility presented significant operational and safeguarding challenges. All site personnel received detailed briefings on patient safety protocols, and daily coordination took place with hospital staff to adapt to any clinical needs. Operatives paused work immediately when patient care required it. Tools were never left unattended, and scaffold structures were secured to prevent unauthorised access.

The absence of edge protection and the fragility of the existing structure required enhanced fall prevention measures and detailed sequencing of the works. The restricted site layout and access points further complicated logistics, particularly for deliveries and crane operations. Despite these constraints, the project remained on track and compliant with strict NHS safety and hygiene standards.

Following asbestos surveys and site-specific risk assessments, Central Group delivered the refurbishment over four clearly defined phases. The team erected specialist scaffolding with secure fencing and installed safety netting to protect both operatives and building users. Work zones were established to minimise disruption to hospital services, with access tightly controlled and communicated in advance.

The existing build-up was carefully stripped and replaced with a new Langley Parafor Solo high-performance membrane system. A Langley Adepar underlayer and HD Sharman gutter lining were installed to improve drainage and waterproofing. New Langley ParaGlaze rooflights enhanced daylighting while improving thermal performance. To reduce time on-site, many components—particularly perimeter cappings—were prefabricated and pre-cut off-site. Where on-site fabrication was necessary, it was conducted in controlled areas with immediate clean-up protocols.