Architectural product manufacturer, Neaco, has supplied a wide-ranging handrail and balustrade specification for a new hospital in York which specialises in rehabilitating adults with an acquired brain injury (ABI).
The ABI hospital marks the latest phase of Henry Boot Developments’ award-winning Chocolate Works development, forming part of a nine-year regeneration project that started with the restoration of the former Terry’s Chocolate Orange Factory. The facility is being run by Brainkind (formerly The Disabilities Trust), which works to improve the lives of disabled people and people with acquired brain injuries.
Construction engineering company, GMI Construction, was the contractor responsible for overseeing the scheme which includes 40 beds across four wards and four assessment flats along with three private and internal courtyards and a therapeutic garden. Principal architect, Jefferson Sheard, and planning and heritage consultant, JLL, have also supported Henry Boot Developments’ and Brainkind on the project. Neaco worked especially close to Jefferson Sheard to keep to specification and make sure all the technical aspects were correct.
Neaco's Specification includes handrails and balustrade manufactured from grade 304 stainless steel with tubular stanchions and clear toughened glass infills installed to three stairwells. The interior also includes wall rails with grade 304 stainless steel brackets and Neaco’s Timberline aluminium wood-effect handrails. Timberline rails are finished with a powder coated reproduction of oak grain, providing natural beauty of wood without the hygiene and maintenance issues associated with real wood.
The hospital exterior includes a large sun terrace featuring Neaco’s balustrade with grade 316 stainless steel stanchions and clear toughened glass extending to 2m above floor level, along with a grade 316 stainless steel offset handrail. A1 Fire Rated and fully compliant with BS EN 13501-1, the stainless steel provides a high-quality aesthetic with clean, sharp intersection lines created by true unidirectional polishing.
Henry Boot Developments Region Director and Head, Tom Wheldon, said: “The unit is an important resource for the city, run by a hugely dedicated and experienced team who have helped hundreds of people. We’re pleased to have been able to support the Disabilities Trust in securing its future in York.”
Andrew Hurcomb, GMI Construction Group’s Divisional Managing Director for Yorkshire, said: “We are exceptionally proud to be part of the delivery team for this project. It’s fantastic to see a brand-new facility of this quality being developed in York.”
Alan Green, Neaco Managing Director, said:
“Neaco has been supplying specifications to healthcare projects for over five decades. We are delighted to add York’s new ABI Hospital to the list.”
With a 52,000 sq. ft factory in North Yorkshire, Neaco manufactures all of their products including aluminium balustrade, aluminium decking, solar shading and modular balconies all within their own facilities.
