Andrew Scott Ltd has successfully completed a new Maintenance Delivery Unit (MDU) in Baglan, for Network Rail.
As part of their ongoing mission to deliver a safe and reliable railway infrastructure, Network Rail purchased the vacant building in Baglan, approx. 9,000m2, to convert into a new MDU. Andrew Scott Ltd worked collaboratively with the Network Rail I.T, design delivery and maintenance teams to amalgamate three existing MDUs and approx. 220 staff into the new space, in order to provide improved facilities for the regional rail maintenance teams.
The project included the complete remodelling and refurbishment of the existing three storey building to provide a reception area, stores area with new scanning system, loading and delivery areas, offices and printing facilities with hot desk and breakout areas. Also included were six meeting rooms, changing rooms and workshops. The site also has an occupational health facility on the second floor. This is to enable Network Rail to provide medical, counselling and other occupational health services internally.
Throughout the design and planning stages, Andrew Scott’s ethos was to implement energy efficient systems with a fully coordinated and integrated systems approach, providing Network Rail with the utmost peace of mind in regards to lifetime running costs and ease of use for the end users.
The MDU embodies a low carbon approach, in line with the aspirations of Network Rail. Andrew Scott recommended and implemented the best fit solution for the building, considering client requirements, capital expenditure, running costs and ease of maintenance.
Sustainable elements on the project included photovoltaic panels, tinted glazing, secure cycle parking and EV charging for staff and fleet vehicles.
Throughout the project, Andrew Scott supported training opportunities for graduates and apprentices, as well as long term sustainable employment opportunities for disadvantaged individuals.
Mark Bowen, Managing Direct of Andrew Scott Ltd, said “we are delighted to have handed over the new MDU to our client, Network Rail. These improved facilities in Baglan will help the Network Rail maintenance teams to provide a safe and dependable rail network across the regions. Our low carbon approach demonstrates our commitment to decarbonisation, reducing emissions throughout our business, especially the repurposing of existing facilities and the reduction in embodied carbon.’’
Theo Smith, Lead Portfolio Manager at Network Rail, said, “It’s fantastic to see the new Network Rail Baglan MDU and occupational health facility opened. This facility is a welcome upgrade for our maintenance colleagues who have moved from Port Talbot, Swansea and Llanelli sites which will encourage collaboration and wellbeing. We have been able to work closely with Andrew Scott again after the success of building Ebbw Junction MDU in Newport. Finally, I would like to say a big thank you to everyone for playing their part in this project.”