Gilberts helps secure a working environment for 21st century policing

Gilberts is supporting Conlon Construction in enabling Lancashire Constabulary to deliver services fit for purpose, in line with changing laws.

Over 300 air movement and control units from the Blackpool ventilation manufacturer feature in the refurbishment of Skelmersdale Police Station.

The project follows Gilberts’ provision of similar for one of the Constabulary’s main Operating Centres two years ago.

The Skelmersdale refurbishment is being undertaken by Conlon Construction, with support by Pick Everard and James Mercer Group Mechanical Engineers. In addition to upgrading the façade, the remodelling and upgrading of the interior is taking place. This is to create efficient, collaborative spaces appropriate for current and future policing requirements.

The role of Gilberts

James Mercer has installed Gilberts’ GSFE circular swirl diffusers and GECA eggcrate grilles at all levels throughout the building. This provides dedicated supply and extract airflow.

The general air movement units come with Gilberts’ Firegard FG2 and FG3 high velocity ductwork smoke and fire dampers and DUC fire dampers rated to deliver up to four hours’ protection against penetration of smoke and fire, managed by some 80 control modules.

Rapid fresh air

Gilberts’ GSFA circular swirl diffusers will rapidly deliver fresh air into all conditioned spaces. The omni-directional swirl effect discharge is projected horizontally for rapid entrainment and intermixing. Gilberts’ GECA eggcrate grilles extract the used air with 90% free ventilation area.

Gilberts’ Firegard curtain dampers feature bespoke angled locking ramps. This ensures full blade closure to prevent the spread of flames through ductwork, providing a solid barrier to fire and smoke for up to four hours. Ductgard engineered smoke and fire dampers adjoin the fire barrier wall, and fully close automatically.

In addition to manufacture, Gilberts has unrivalled technical support capability. This includes computation Fluid Dynamics modelling software and a full in-house test laboratory at its 95000 square foot head office.

‘A lasting legacy’

Michael Conlon, chairman of Conlon Construction, comments: “The Constabulary is keen to promote the concept of Backing Lancashire. We concentrated on making use of the local supply chain, to ensure efficient use of resources, value for money and to ensure we deliver a lasting legacy beyond the build.

“Our focus has been to create a scheme that ensures Skelmersdale Police has the right working environment to provide a first-class service to the public.”

Cristina Marshall Head of Estates, Fleet and Facilities Management for Lancashire Constabulary, adds: “Our social value policy ensures that all resources are used wisely, whilst ensuring the efficient use of resources and delivery of value for money.”

The station is due to reopen in late 2021.

Contact:

Gilberts of Blackpool,
Gilair Works,
Clifton Road,
Blackpool,
FY4 40T

Phone: 01253 766911
Fax: 01253 767941

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