The Facts
Customer: M&S Uxbridge
Result: Design and installation of a 450kW chiller and bespoke air handling units as part of complex store fit out programme.
Timeframe: 12 weeks
Constraints: Restricted access routes and room sizes
Completion: November 2024
The Challenge
Installation of the new chiller and air handling units at M&S Uxbridge initially required an asbestos survey followed by work with Hillingdon Council regarding planning permission and necessary road closures, all under the pressures of a live store fit out environment.
The team had to manage lead times, design revisions and limited access routes while removing the old equipment and preparing for both air handling unit installation and chiller installation.
In addition, the original manufacturer could not supply equipment in a flat packed format suitable for restricted access, meaning a new supplier had to be sourced to support the mechanical works and commercial cooling systems upgrade.
The Solution
Following the asbestos survey, the Sigma Projects team removed an internal, installed an RSJ and supported external walls to increase the plantroom footprint needed for the wider store fit out upgrades.
To create a workable access route, a full acoustic wall was removed. The existing chiller was then dismantled into flat pack form and removed via crane lift to make way for the new chiller installation and air handling unit installation.
The team also fitted new electrical supplies for the air handling units, including BMS Building Management System connections and prefabricated stainless steel 6” pipework, along with a new twin-head pump to support the upgraded commercial cooling systems.
The Result
The Sigma Projects team completed the project on time and within budget, including agreed variations, delivering a reliable store fit out outcome for the Uxbridge site.
The new 450kW chiller and air handling units have already significantly reduced energy use and operational costs at M&S Uxbridge, supported by modern commercial cooling systems and improved controls via the BMS Building Management System.