An alliance of six major contractors aims to enhance Armed Forces living conditions by creating 16,000 new bed spaces.
- Kier is involved in two joint ventures within the alliance, partnering with McAvoy Group and Metek.
- The Defence Infrastructure Organisation utilises an alliance model, promoting consistency and flexibility in design.
- Modern construction methods are employed to speed up production while reducing onsite disruption.
- This initiative is crucial for providing improved, consistent quality living spaces for Armed Forces personnel.
Six leading contractors, including Kier and Laing O’Rourke, have united to form an alliance for the creation of 16,000 bed spaces for Armed Forces personnel. This significant undertaking involves Kier participating in two distinct joint ventures alongside modular firm McAvoy Group and steel construction specialist Metek. Additionally, Bowmer and Kirkland, ExtraSpace Solutions, and modular experts Reds10 are also key players in this strategic collaboration.
The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) has innovative plans for this alliance, marking the first application of such a pioneering format for accommodation projects. By introducing a shared design library, the alliance aims to ensure a ‘common base design’ with the flexibility to adapt to the specific needs of various sites and personnel, which includes accommodating both short-term recruits and those needing permanent accommodations.
Utilising modern construction techniques is expected to significantly hasten manufacturing and minimise the duration of onsite work, thereby reducing disturbances. This strategic choice is anticipated to facilitate the swift construction of uniform blocks, enhancing quality and delivering optimal value for money. Charlie Hoskins, DIO’s director of major programmes and projects, emphasised the importance of this move, noting that it is pivotal in improving the delivery of single-living spaces for the Armed Forces.
Hoskins articulated that these structures constitute a significant portion of defence facilities construction, and adopting this model ensures safety, expedites the building process, and maintains high standards. He highlighted that the overarching objective is to elevate the living standards of military personnel, a goal which all the involved suppliers are wholeheartedly committed to advancing.
This alliance represents a decisive step forward in ensuring enhanced living conditions for Armed Forces personnel, driven by innovation and collaboration.
