Multiple Phase Modernisation for Leading, National Conference Centre
Lift Modernisation
Background
The QEII Conference Centre sits opposite Westminster Abbey, in sight of the Houses of Parliament. Opened in 1986, it has 2000m2 of exhibition and conference space hosting over 400 events a year; many of which are on the world stage. As central London’s premier space it is hugely successful; winning over 30 awards.
Brief
Our introduction to The Centre was back in 2015 when our brief was to develop a strategic plan for lift investment. Numbering 19, the lifts were original and approaching the end of their working life. This included the external Mews Lift that is a bespoke rack and pinion goods lift used to transport exhibits to the halls.
Since then our brief has extended to the delivery of the strategic plan, starting with the replacement and modernisation of the operationally critical goods lifts. We have gone on to re-tender the maintenance, develop the passenger lift modernisation scheme and replace the external Mews Lift.
Challenges
Delivering replacement lifts in a working environment, particularly around the needs of catering and exhibition set-up meant very limited windows of opportunity. Limited working and access space, along with the security constraints of a sensitive building meant planning and coordination had to be absolute.
Process
Following development of the strategic plan, the first delivery phase was to upgrade the goods and kitchen lifts. In order to maintain Centre operations, we split the project delivery of each lift into summer, and Christmas, recess phases. Whilst not as efficient as delivering lift replacement in a continuous project it was a necessary approach given the centre’s purpose and reputation..
On completion of the first phase, we re-tendered for the maintenance contract ahead of developing Phase 2 works. We monitored maintenance quality on an ongoing basis to ensure contracted delivery.
The external Mews Lift replacement entailed developing a bespoke solution to component level using unique rigid chain technology. With the design complete, the installation is scheduled for the next recess window.
Outcome
With a further 20 years of service life, the goods and catering lifts now provide a reliable and energy-efficient service due to an installation of robust doors and modern variable frequency drives. Additionally, one goods lift was extended to the basement to provide further resilience of the service.
With a more intense and focussed maintenance regime in place, the remaining lifts have provided stable, reliable service whilst awaiting progression to the next investment phase.
The Mews Lift is to provide a quieter drive with potential to extend travel to the uppermost floor. The lift uses equipment from established lift suppliers ensuring future product support and guaranteeing long term reliability.
