Thurston Group - Train Crew Accommodation

Overview

Since its creation nearly 50 years ago Wakefield-based Thurston Building Systems has continually evolved its operation to the extent that it is now one of the longest-standing modular and portable building manufacturers in the UK.

The fact that we have such a diverse product range has set us in good stead during the more challenging economic climate experienced in recent years. It has allowed us to enter into a large variety of market sectors. We have found that as one market sector contracts, others have remained buoyant. A prime example was when the credit crunch first hit, as we saw a reduction in demand for temporary site accommodation, and the number of construction sites diminished, at the same time the public sector continued to provide us with opportunities, particularly in health and education. This situation continues to remain volatile however, we are now seeing growth in many sectors, and construction is once again improving.

We have a full in-house design team that can carry out all architectural and engineering design. Our technical team provide all the design coordination of specialist contractors to ensure that the finished building performs as required, and is also specified to ensure the manufacture of a high quality building. We also have our own project management team to deliver the end project, this ensures delivery from manufacture to site and the completion process is managed ensuring that budgets and programmes are maintained throughout.

The galvanised steel structural shell and ceramic cladding on Cockfosters train crew accommodation, which will further enhance the design life of this building and ensure that the building will retain an outstanding aesthetic appearance for many years, with only minimal cleaning maintenance required, combined with the large uncluttered floor plates free of visible services and service risers, also linked by an escalator to facilitate easy internal access. Natural light was also paramount in the design, whilst the rectangular footprint allows the elevations to easily provide this without the need for a central atrium, and therefore providing a highly efficient and cost effective utilisation of the site. The internal construction and layout is configured to ensure areas for relaxation feel comfortable and work areas are kept remote, to ensure the building serves multiple roles. The interior also has the benefit of a superstructure that provides clear span support to ensure future reconfigurations and adaptations will be easily achieved, and thereby ensure good functionality for many years in a variety of potential utilisations.