Merit delivers first Air Handling Unit POD to new rehab unit at Norwich Community Hospital

Published: 29-May-2024

Merit has transported its first Air Handling Unit (AHU POD) to the site of the new therapy-led rehabilitation unit, Willow Therapy Unit, at Norwich Community Hospital

Merit, a construction and digital manufacturing specialist, has transported its first AHU POD to the site of the Willow Therapy Unit at Norwich Community Hospital.

Willow Therapy Unit is a new therapy-led rehabilitation unit that aims to facilitate seamless transitions for patients from hospital to community care, alleviating pressures on local acute hospitals.

Due to be completed in August, the project is the first of its kind using Merit’s new V6 UltraPOD (trademarked) SFS Variant, an extension to UltraPOD (trademarked).

The project is the first of its kind using Merit’s new V6 UltraPOD SFS Variant

To meet ever-changing and increasing demands, the V6 UltraPOD SFS Variant utilises Merit’s latest roll former, panel line production system to enhance affordability and accessibility through a significantly reduced programme. 

The V6 platform comes as standard, rated BREEAM Excellent as a minimum, EPC-A, and energy consumption is 69% lower than the current CIBSE hospital benchmarks.

Merit will also utilise 4D BIM modelling technology in this project.

When complete, the facility will include:

  • 48 beds across a mix of single and four-bedded bays
  • Treatment areas
  • An assessment kitchen
  • A self-service café
  • A reception area

Tony Wells, CEO at Merit said: “We’re delighted to be working collaboratively with Norfolk Community Health & Care NHS Trust to deliver this new facility, which will bring improved healthcare services to the local community.”

Due to be completed in August

"The successful delivery of our AHU POD from our Cramlington factory to Norwich Community Hospital represents our commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare facilities efficiently and sustainably, while working within the healthcare sector to deliver bespoke solutions that meet local need and make a tangible difference to the community," Wells continued.

"At Merit, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do and we are very proud as we continue to optimise our product offering so that we can provide the go-to choice for swift and efficient project delivery," Wells concluded. 

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