Responding to a major national RAAC challenge in healthcare 

Airedale General Hospital, constructed in the late 1960s using reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), is one of the most significantly affected hospitals in the UK, with over 50,000 panels across the estate and a high proportion showing structural defects. 

NG Bailey has been supporting Robertson Construction Group since late 2022 in delivering a multi-phase programme of remedial works and infrastructure upgrades, enabling the Trust to maintain safe, operational healthcare facilities while progressing long-term redevelopment plans. 

To date, more than 15 wards and clinical areas have been successfully refurbished and handed over, with a further pipeline of works planned through to 2028. The programme forms part of a wider strategy to stabilise existing infrastructure while supporting future hospital development under the Government’s New Hospital Programme. 

Delivering complex MEP upgrades within live clinical and structural constraints 

NG Bailey’s scope includes the survey, isolation, strip-out, coordination, installation and commissioning of mechanical and electrical services across a range of clinical and support environments. 

Works include upgrades to heating, domestic water, drainage, ventilation, medical gases, LV power distribution, lighting, fire alarms, nurse call systems, security systems and medical earthing — all delivered while maintaining full hospital operations. 

The presence of RAAC has introduced significant engineering constraints. Strict load limits (1.5kN/m²) and restrictions on fixing methods required innovative solutions, including the use of independent structural supports, temporary propping systems and carefully controlled material storage strategies. 

Access constraints also eliminated the use of MEWPs, requiring alternative working methods such as podium-based access systems. Reduced ceiling void depths due to structural fail-safes further increased coordination complexity, demanding precise planning and integration of services within constrained spaces. 

Maintaining operational continuity through careful planning and coordination 

All works are delivered within a fully operational hospital, requiring meticulous planning to ensure continuity of care and minimise disruption to patients and staff. 

A phased delivery approach is adopted for each area, with detailed planning of isolations, service diversions, temporary feeds and overnight shutdowns. Due to the interconnected nature of existing services — where wards are not independently serviced — maintaining continuity requires close collaboration with the Trust’s estates team and careful sequencing of works. 

Extensive survey activity has been critical in addressing incomplete or inaccurate legacy information, enabling safe and reliable integration of new systems into the existing infrastructure. 

The repeatable nature of the programme has enabled continuous improvement across phases, refining methodologies and improving efficiency, quality and programme certainty over time. 

Driving consistency, safety and long-term value through a programme approach 

The ongoing programme has established a stable and repeatable delivery model, combining NG Bailey’s healthcare expertise with a structured approach to planning, coordination and commissioning. 

The approach has enabled all completed phases to be delivered on programme, with a strong safety record and consistent quality outcomes. NG Bailey’s capability and flexibility have also allowed the team to respond to evolving project requirements and ongoing works, reinforcing its position as a trusted delivery partner. 

Beyond the physical works, the programme is generating wider social value, including: 

• Supporting local apprentices, with an average of 8 NG Bailey apprentices on site alongside additional supply chain trainees  

• Delivering work experience opportunities with local colleges  

• Community engagement initiatives, including fundraising and improvements to patient spaces  

Strong collaboration with Robertson and the Trust has underpinned delivery, reflected in continued repeat work and a Net Promoter Score of 10/10.