Giant Inflatable Roof Keeps Hospital RAAC Replacement on Track

A construction contractor has installed a giant inflatable roofing system to keep RAAC replacement works dry at Royal Bolton Hospital.

Robertson Construction North West is carrying out the work as part of the hospital’s £38 million redevelopment.

UK-First Roofing Solution

The 35m-long air-filled tent structure has been adapted and engineered to be installed at height on the roof of the hospital, providing a fully weatherproof working environment while the wards below remain open.

The structure is inflated using a constant-flow air system and powered by the hospital’s carbon-free mains electricity. Each modular tent can be fully deployed in just seven minutes and deflated in three.

Robertson says this is the first time this technology has been used for a UK construction roofing solution.

Minimising Disruption

The works will see the maternity unit’s RAAC roof replaced alongside new mechanical and electrical systems installed.

Traditional scaffolding posed significant logistical challenges for the complex hospital roof because of interconnected buildings and the need to maintain 24-hour access to critical areas including the hospital’s oxygen store.

Robertson instead developed a lightweight scaffolding and a modular tent system designed for long-term use which would minimise disruption to hospital operations and ensure the safety and privacy of patients and staff.

In total, 13 tents will be used over the 40-week RAAC roof replacement programme.

Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, said: “We are always looking for new innovations that help us deliver high-quality projects and services for our customers. This initiative demonstrates what’s possible when our teams challenge convention, share expertise, and embrace innovation to deliver real value for our customers and the communities they serve.

“As the partner of choice for the Bolton NHS Foundation Trust to deliver essential RAAC replacement and create modern, safe, and welcoming healthcare environments we needed to find a solution that didn’t impact on the day-to-day operations at the hospital.

“We hope this redefines how complex roofing and refurbishment works can be delivered across our industry and inspires the exploration of smarter, more sustainable ways of working.”

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