Project Description
This project was to deliver a state-of-the-art computer facility to enhance the current University of Edinburgh’s Data Services. Delivering this highly serviced building for the EPCC arm of UoE, Doig+Smith (D+S) were appointed through the UoE’s Major Projects Framework and lead the Pre-Contract works to procure this SCAPE delivered project. This project was delivered via a Design & Build Contract with the Design Team novating to the Contractor. D+S continued Post-Contract by providing the UoE with full Cost Advisor services to ensure strict cost control to completion.
The Works for this Tier 2 Data Centre comprised constructing a fully clad steel structure to house the new computer room and its associated plant. This state-of-the-art installation included, cooling pipes, chillers, generators, UPS, HV Switchgear, Transformers, PDUs and associated Building Management Systems. In addition to the computer room fit out the project also had a glazed link corridor providing both access and service connectivity links between the existing and new facility.
External works consisted of drainage installations; localised hard and soft landscaping.
Our Role / Scope
Our role as Cost Consultants was to provide full Pre-Construction services including Cost Planning and Option Appraisals; assisting The Scape construction delivery partner to compile the Work Package tender documentation prior to recommendation. D+S also provided full Post-Contract duties including Cost Reporting, Interim Valuations and Contract Change Management. All required close communication with the other Project Consultants and the Main Contractor to ensure Project Budget was maintained.
Technical Capacity
The team comprised of the following:
- Technical Director
- Project Quantity Surveyor
Benefits To Client
- Use of a project relevant Surveyor ensured value added cost considerations throughout the Pre & Post Contract Works;
- Comprehensive understanding of pre-contract design management;
- Full pre and post-contract service delivery providing whole-project knowledge continuity;
- Value engineering to ensure close budget management whilst prioritising client objectives;
- Close tender Work Package analysis that ensured all design considerations were met while still delivering best value for money;
- Full implementation of NEC CEN process increasing cost control;
- Regular interaction with PM and Contractor ensured a prompt Final Account agreement following NEC change control process;
- Cost Reporting which fed into a wider Client Development cost.