The Essex and Suffolk Elective Orthopaedic Centre (ESEOC) is reportedly the UK’s largest MMC development of its kind, built in five phases using 293 offsite-manufactured structural steel units. Designed to handle up to 10,500 cases annually, including 4,000 day cases, it provides state-of-the-art surgical and recovery spaces, including ensuite single rooms, X-ray facilities, a therapy gym, and training areas.
MTX was appointed as the main contractor through a two-stage contract, working with ESNEFT to develop the design to RIBA stage four. Planning permission was granted in June 2021, and construction began in April 2022. A mobile crane was used to lift the prefabricated steel units into place. Once each floor’s shell was completed and concrete screed installed, MTX fitted out furniture, fittings, and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing), much of which was pre-manufactured as modules.
Theatres are located on the ground floor, with wards above. The building’s layout ensures efficient patient flow, dedicated sterile access, and natural light for recovery. Theatres feature clean air canopies by Medical Air Technology, Merivaara surgical lights, and Bender UK touchscreen control panels.
MTX also managed extensive groundwork, including sewer diversions and basement construction for plant rooms, water tanks, and attenuation systems. MTX managing director, David Hartley, said: “This project is a milestone for MMC as the biggest project of its kind in the UK, and we are immensely proud to be at the forefront of construction technology in creating the new Elective Orthopaedic Centre at Colchester Hospital.”
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