Project overview

This ongoing scheme will provide a world-renowned formula one client with a new, state-of-the-art wind tunnel vehicle testing facility. SDC’s involvement began by working closely alongside the clients two specialist suppliers and installers of a complex, multi-million-pound automotive installation.

Project value
£26,889,000
Project value
Breeam
Very Good
Breeam
RIBA
Stage 2
RIBA

As the main contractor responsible for the design and build of the overall facility, the specialist design criteria was received through a number of specific workshops and the use of a coordinated building model.

SDC collaborated with the design team to produce a coordinated design capturing all facets of the facility that met the clients’ requirements. Further detailed planning discussions have also been held with the specialists to work through the installation sequence. Specific needs have been understood and conveyed to the workforce through further 3D modelling of the construction sequence. A strong understanding of the specialists particular installation methods have allowed the design to be developed to suit from the early stages of the project

Caption example

Caption example

Caption example

Caption example

Further detailed planning discussions have also been held with the specialists to work through the installation sequence. Specific needs have been understood and conveyed to the workforce through further 3D modelling of the construction sequence.

A strong understanding of the specialists particular installation methods have allowed the design to be developed to suit from the early stages of the project, for example the floor slabs have been designed to cater for specific construction traffic loadings and the services containment and routing has been designed to suit the specialist requirements.

The installation of a rolling road structure and model motion strut will be completed by SDC under the guidance and supervision of the client specialist. This will also include the MEP provisions such as heating and cooling, compressed air, power, data, lighting, controls and earthing systems. In addition to the wind tunnel facility, SDC has liaised closely with the client team throughout, managing the model build workshop. This includes carrying out detailed surveys of all existing equipment to ensure this can be transferred over seamlessly and minimise downtime.

Project team

Francis Shiner

Francis Shiner

Chairman

Since joining the company in 1983, Francis has assumed various roles, from Chief Surveyor to managing Director, ultimately assuming the position of Chairman in 2021.

Dan Changer

Dan Changer

Director

Dan studied Architecture at the University of Cambridge and worked as a chartered Architect before joining SDC in 2010. Joining as a Design Coordinator, Dan then opted to work as a Contracts Manager, receiving a promotion to Project Manager before his appointment to the Board of Directors in 2020. His duties and responsibilities include setting the overall strategy for the project, as well as leading the project team and ensuring the scheme is delivered within the client’s time, quality and budget constraints. Dan’s client-focused attitude and collaborative problem-solving approach will be crucial to the scheme’s successful delivery.

Jonathan Richardson

Jonathan Richardson

Director

Jonathan has extensive knowledge and experience of building services design, installations and management thereof. As a qualified Building Services Engineer, Jonathan spent his earlier career working for a major MEP sub-contractor. His diverse range of project experience means he has proven to be a great addition to the SDC team, and this has led to his recent promotion to M&E Director. He oversees a team of electrical and mechanical project managers, estimators, quantity surveyors, commissioning and MEP design managers.