GSK - Ware M2 Manufacturing Facility

Our Role

As structural designer for the main building and modular laboratory spaces, we worked closely with Simons Design, the project’s architectural team, to deliver a robust and adaptable structural solution. Our scope also encompassed site drainage design to support the overall infrastructure of the facility. The design was developed with a focus on flexibility, ensuring the building could accommodate future changes in use while maintaining structural safety and compliance with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards.

Project Highlights

A key feature of the project was the use of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), a collaborative approach to contracting that aimed to streamline workflows and reduce project timelines. This methodology allowed for faster decision-making and close collaboration among all parties, facilitating quicker delivery. The design incorporated a partial offsite modular construction strategy, with the second-floor plant room assembled in 39 modules. This offsite fabrication allowed for the quicker assembly of complex building components, significantly reducing the on-site construction time and improving overall efficiency.

The modular approach also played a crucial role in maximizing the use of space on a constrained site. By carefully planning the design and utilizing modular elements, the project team ensured that the facility could deliver the necessary operational capacity within the available land area, without compromising the building’s long-term adaptability.

Outcome

The project successfully delivered a high-specification, GMP-compliant manufacturing facility, tailored to GlaxoSmithKline’s needs. The use of offsite modular construction, integrated delivery methods, and close collaboration between all design teams resulted in an efficient and timely project delivery. The facility is now operational, providing GSK with a flexible and reliable space to support its manufacturing activities.

This project demonstrates the effectiveness of modern construction techniques, such as offsite fabrication and integrated delivery models, in meeting the challenges posed by complex and constrained sites. It also showcases Shepherd Gilmour's ability to work closely with architects and other professionals to deliver projects that are both technically sound and adaptable to future needs.

For more details, you can view the project brochure, or web article by NSC Publishing here.