Upgrading Nottingham Crown Court roof while maintaining operational courtrooms and live M&E systems.
We were appointed to provide architectural, BIM coordination, and principal designer services to upgrade the roof at Nottingham Crown Court for the Ministry of Justice, as part of a nationwide maintenance programme. The building had multiple courtrooms out of action due to water damage and ongoing maintenance issues, making a careful, phased approach essential.
The scheme involved installing a new pitched roof, upgrading and replacing plant, and relocating M&E systems while the building remained fully operational. Temporary protection was provided to safeguard both the building and live services during construction. New galvanized steel walkways were installed to allow safe maintenance access. All elements of the project were delivered to BIM Level 2 standards.
Working closely with the M&E design engineers, a number of solutions were considered. It was decided to install a new roof over the existing plant to minimise disruption to the building’s day-to-day operations. Access solutions included carefully cutting into the existing roof finish at internal column bases and installing roof hatches within cupboard areas, providing emergency and maintenance access in compliance with security and regulatory requirements, while avoiding damage to existing finishes and structures.
The project faced challenges including the removal of existing rooftop plant and unforeseen weather conditions, but the team successfully maintained the tight programme. Early engagement with the Local Authority Planning Department ensured that all requirements were considered from the outset, avoiding potential delays.
The next phase of works will involve replacing the designed atrium glazed curtain wall system.Â
We are replacing the roof at Nottingham Crown Court to ensure the long-term resilience of the site and improve the experience of everyone using the court. This work is part of the government’s investment for essential modernisation and repair work of our court buildings across the country to minimise the risk of future disruption to cases being heard up and down the country.