Commercial Cladding for Milton Keynes University Hospital

case study

Project Background

Milton Keynes University Hospital required a series of alterations to an existing cladded building as part of a proposed redevelopment of its Imaging Hub. The works formed part of a wider internal refurbishment, with the layout redesign calling for nine cellular reporting desks, staff welfare facilities, and updated WC provision.

As part of that redevelopment, four new window openings were required in the existing external wall cladding to bring natural light into the reconfigured internal spaces. The cladding was already in place, meaning the openings had to be carefully formed without compromising the weathertightness or structural integrity of the surrounding facade.

Scope of Works

RDP Cladding Ltd were instructed to carry out all works associated with the formation of the four new window openings, in line with the issued architectural drawing (Rev 02, dated 17/09/25). The scope included:

  • Setting out and marking of all four new window opening positions in accordance with the issued layout plan
  • Careful cutting and removal of the existing cladding to form each opening
  • Trimming and preparation of openings to achieve the correct dimensions for window installation
  • Installation of purpose-made head, sill and jamb flashings to each opening
  • Sealing and finishing works to provide a clean, professional appearance in keeping with the healthcare environment
  • Making good around the perimeter of each opening to ensure the facade remained fully watertight

All works were completed in accordance with industry best practice, with the primary requirements being weather tightness, structural integrity of the surrounding cladding, and a finish ready to receive the new window frames.

Challenges and How They Were Managed

Working on an active NHS site presented specific demands around safety, tidiness, and minimal disruption. The works had to be carried out carefully to avoid damage to the surrounding cladding, and all temporary weatherproofing measures were maintained throughout to protect the building interior during the works.

Forming precise openings in an existing cladded facade also required careful setting out and controlled cutting to ensure the finished dimensions were accurate for window installation. Any deviation at this stage would have caused problems downstream, so close attention was paid to the drawing specification throughout.

The internal reconfiguration was ongoing in parallel with the external cladding works, which required coordination to ensure the facade openings aligned correctly with the new internal layout.

Outcome

All four window openings were successfully formed and prepared to a high standard, with full weatherproofing maintained throughout and a clean finish achieved on completion. The openings were handed over ready for window installation, with all flashings correctly fitted and the surrounding cladding left undamaged and watertight.

The completed works contribute to a significantly improved environment within the Imaging Hub, bringing natural light into the refurbished reporting spaces and supporting the overall redevelopment objectives for the facility.

Accreditations and Standards

RDP Cladding Ltd hold SMAS Worksafe accreditation, demonstrating a commitment to health and safety standards on site. All works are carried out with full documentation including Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS), making RDP well suited to working within regulated environments such as NHS healthcare sites.

RDP are also accredited installers of Kingspan Insulated Panels and hold accreditation for the Plygene Gutterline System, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to working with quality, recognised systems and manufacturers.

Details

Project Scope & Challenges

  • Client: Milton Keynes University Hospital
  • Location: Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

  • Building Type: NHS Healthcare facility (Imaging Hub)
  • Sector: Healthcare / Public Sector

  • Scope of Works: Formation of four new window openings in existing wall cladding
Do you have a project requirement?

This project was led by our Managing Director at RDP Cladding, Robert Peters. If you have a requirement for a project like this, please click the button above and get in touch.

RDP Cladding operatives forming new window openings in existing wall cladding at Milton Keynes University Hospital
Completed wall cladding facade with four new window openings installed, finished with white flashings on a cream profiled metal cladding building

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