Delivering Net Zero for the NHS
A Standardised Framework with Clinical Adaptation:
At West Middlesex University Hospital, the HVAC model developed by Mansfield Pollard applies standardised air handling configurations with site-specific adaptation. Each unit is electrically driven, HTM 03-01 compliant, and constructed to L2 air leakage and TB2 thermal bridging classification Energy is recovered via counterflow heat exchangers. Air movement is delivered through EC fan arrays. All coils are configured for compatibility with external heat pump systems. Controls are integrated and connected to the building management system from the point of commissioning. This provides continuous performance visibility for estates teams and enables remote diagnostics, optimisation and fault resolution without contractor attendance.
Programme Delivery and Site Integration:
Units were manufactured in transportable sections. Delivery schedules were aligned with site logistics constraints, including cranage limits and access routes. Assembly was completed on site using pre-engineered interfaces for weathering and structural alignment. Site leak testing was undertaken following installation in accordance with HTM 03-01. This delivery model allows repeatable outcomes for NHS clients seeking to reduce reliance on gas infrastructure, upgrade ventilation performance, and comply with statutory decarbonisation policy. The West Middlesex ADC confirms that full electrification of HVAC systems is now a routine option for NHS capital projects.
HVAC Integration in a Net Zero Build
Clinical Purpose and Infrastructure Context:
The Ambulatory Diagnostic Centre at West Middlesex University Hospital delivers a multi-specialist service model within a fully electric mechanical infrastructure. As the single largest capital investment undertaken by Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, the building is configured from first principles to comply with the NHS Net Zero Carbon Building Standard. HVAC systems are designed, installed and operated electrically to reduce wider use of fossil fuels across the property portfolio, delivering long-term performance and resilience across all clinical and support spaces.
AHU Specification and Structural Strategy:
The ventilation strategy is underpinned by MP’s standardised, HTM-compliant AHU configurations. With each unit installed on a welded 150 x 75 PFC base frame, hot dip galvanised and pre-engineered to interface precisely with the building’s structural geometry. AHUs were delivered in sectional format and installed as part of the shell and core sequencing, enabling early connection and commissioning.
Functional Zoning and Clinical Integration:
The facility houses renal, oncology, imaging, education and welfare functions, each served by dedicated ventilation zones. Dialysis and oncology treatment areas required high-duty performance, stable temperature control and precise airflow management. Clinical reliability, acoustic impact, and maintenance access were all engineered into the AHU architecture from the outset. Where required, AHUs were housed within maintenance corridor enclosures. The most significant of these is the shared corridor plant structure serving AHU 3 and AHU 4, which support the dialysis and oncology suites. This dual-width enclosure measures over 8 metres across and nearly 10 metres in length, providing full-height, walk-in access to both units. LED lighting, drainage, pipework support and attenuation were also integrated. AHUs serving lower-load zones, including education & administration areas, follow the same specification basis with scaled airflow. These units were either enclosed in dedicated plant corridors or mounted in roof-level positions with localised access.
System Electrification and Controls:
All ventilation systems were constructed to L2 air leakage and TB2 thermal bridging classifications and were delivered with factory-integrated controls. Each AHU was supplied with DX coil configurations compatible with a centralised air source heat pump system. Controls were networked to the building management system and commissioned under load prior to handover. The result is a consistent, fully electric ventilation platform that meets NHS standards for performance, maintainability and carbon reduction and that can be replicated across future clinical capital programmes.
