Cardiff University CUBRIC MRI & MEG FACILITY

Client: Cardiff University
Location: Cardiff, Wales
Discipline(s):

A new University Research Building comprising 6500 sq m of high quality accommodation, including state of the art scanning and brain imaging facilities, clinical and behavioural testing suites and office space for researchers and students.

We were asked to provide the full QS services based on a design and build single stage procurement route where the designers were novated to the contractor after planning consent had been achieved. Our commission commenced at the feasibility stage where the cost of various building uses was investigated. We provided Order of Cost estimates and Elemental Cost Planning in accordance with the RICS new rules of measurement throughout the RIBA design stages 0 – 3. We also provided whole life cost modelling for BREEAM at RIBA Stages 0 – 3. A detailed Design and Build tender was produced and we managed the tender review process and assisted in appointing the contractor.

We were also involved in the procurement of the fit out works which includes a separate JCT Design and Build Contract with Siemens for the fit out and installation of the MRI and MEG scanners. On site we provided monthly project financial statements, valuations and dealt with change control and settled the final account.

The project achieved BREEAM Excellent, and met all of its cost/time/quality goals. The project included state of the art scanning and brain imaging facilities, clinical and behavioural testing suites and office space for researchers and students.

We worked closely with the Client and designers to fully understand and reinforce the brief. We provided benchmarking and option estimates so that the best value for money solution was selected; this was subjected to value engineering during contractor appointment. We managed risk collectively with the Client, designers and contractor after their appointment.

We are proud of our involvement in this iconic project. The project has been widely recognised within the industry, winning many awards including the Project of the Year Award and the Design Innovation Award at the 2017 Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors awards in Wales, and also internationally won the Life Science Research Building Category at the 2017 S-Lab awards