FMJ Facilities Management magazine providing industry-specific intelligence to FM and property professionals
Memorial Hospital, operated by Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust, has completed a critical roof refurbishment to extend the lifespan of its facilities, improve thermal efficiency, and support the Trust’s Green Plan commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. The result is a safer, more energy-efficient environment that benefits patients, staff, and the wider community.
Extending Asset Life While Supporting Sustainability
The hospital’s existing roof had reached the end of its serviceable life, increasing the risk of water ingress, higher energy bills, and reactive maintenance. Pellings LLP, an integrated design, property, and construction consultant, oversaw the project. Following Garland UK’s detailed roof condition survey, the team were appointed to design and deliver a waterproofing solution that would minimise disruption to healthcare services and provide measurable long-term value.
For the Trust, the project was an essential investment in asset resilience, energy performance, and reduced whole-life costs, all while contributing to decarbonisation targets.
Working in a Live, Operational Hospital
Hospitals present unique challenges when undertaking remedial works. The project was delivered while the hospital remained fully operational, with patient safety, infection control, and continuity of care taking priority.
Restricted access points and the need to maintain clear emergency routes required careful planning for deliveries and contractor movements. Fire safety was also paramount, with the design fully compliant with Safe2Torch guidelines to eliminate hot works risks.
Upgrading the roof’s insulation ensured compliance with current building regulations while improving thermal performance, lowering heating demand, and enhancing indoor comfort, delivering tangible benefits for building occupants and reducing operational costs for estates teams.
High-Performance Roofing for a Demanding Environment
Garland UK Technical Manager Jack Costello specified the StressPly Flex Plus bituminous waterproofing system, installed by approved contractor Inspire Contract Services. The solution included a tapered insulation scheme to improve drainage and further increase thermal efficiency.
Self-adhesive membranes were used in high-risk areas to comply with Safe2Torch, ensuring work could proceed safely in flame-free zones. Rooflights were upgraded to increase natural daylight levels, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and creating a brighter, more welcoming internal environment.
Quality assurance was maintained through twice-weekly inspections and real-time documentation using Garland UK’s Roof Asset Management Programme (RAMP), ensuring transparency and compliance throughout.
Operational and User Benefits Delivered
The refurbishment was completed on time and within budget. The new roof now achieves a U-value of 0.15, improving thermal retention and reducing heat loss, benefits that translate directly into lower running costs, reduced carbon emissions, and improved comfort for building users.
For staff and patients, the upgrade means a consistently watertight, temperature-stable environment, free from the disruption and discomfort caused by leaks or reactive repairs. For the estates team, it means fewer call-outs, easier maintenance planning, and the reassurance of Garland UK’s 25-year Single-Point Guarantee, covering design, materials, and installation workmanship.
Asset Resilience Across Sectors
This project demonstrates how estates across all sectors, from healthcare and education to commercial and residential, can extend the life of critical assets while supporting sustainability goals and operational priorities.
For the end user, a well-designed and well-installed roof means safety, comfort, and efficiency every day. For those responsible for managing the building, it delivers predictable performance, reduced whole-life costs, and the confidence that comes with long-term protection. By combining technical expertise with careful operational planning, projects like this ensure that buildings continue to serve their purpose effectively for decades to come.
