Client: Stow College

Location: Glasgow

Requirements: A decision to upgrade Science facilities at Stow College, led to the construction of a substantial, purpose-made laboratory complex within the college grounds.

Jim Ewing at Stow College said: “We had a lot of unused space within the college grounds. So rather than renovating the laboratories internally, we wanted to create a separate, dedicated science facility.”

The College approached Portakabin to discuss their initial ideas. Portakabin were soon commissioned to deliver the building and manage the entire project; including an intricate planning process.

Solution:  A complete, bespoke education complex was created from 36 modules of the state-of-the-art Ultima building systems. The Ultima building system is one of the most high-quality, technically advanced systems on the market.

Ultima has no interior columns, so it is able to offer total flexibility. An ideal solution that can accommodate almost all requirements and designs.

Portakabin installed all groundworks, electrics and plumbing to the laboratories and classrooms. An intricate task, due to the nature of the building, but one that the Ultima building system is well equipped to deliver.

The science facility has attracted positive comments from visitors, as well as students and staff. Jim Ewing from Stow College explained that the success of the project was largely down to careful and thorough planning: “”Careful planning and good working relationships meant that Portakabin delivered exactly what we were looking for. Staff were very helpful and professional, ensuring the complex project was undertaken in a seamless process.”

The multi-story science building includes an interior lift and external fire-exit staircase. Other security and safety features include access ramps (which help to meet the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act). Window mounted, wire-mesh security grids provide peace of mind and allow plenty of natural sunlight into the building.

The College said: “We are extremely happy with the building. The Ultima buildings have been showcased to other councils looking to undertake similar projects. It is an eye-catching building; fully-equipped and purpose-built to meet the needs of the students.” Jim Ewing. Stow College.