Royal Stoke & Haywood Hospitals – Glass Louvre Replacement Programme
Overview
Bennett Architectural has been supporting Royal Stoke University Hospital and Haywood Hospital with the ongoing replacement of ageing glass louvres originally installed in 2009. These louvre systems have reached the end of their service life, and due to the hospitals operating under a PFI agreement, all replacements must be completed on a strict like for like basis to ensure compliance with contractual requirements.
Since 2021, we have been systematically replacing louvres and glazing components as failures occur, ensuring the hospitals maintain safe, functional, and fully operational façade systems.
Original Installation: 2009
Replacement Programme: 2021 – Present
Scope: Glass louvre replacement & double glazed unit repairs
The Challenge
Over time, many of the original 2009 louvre systems have deteriorated, with issues including:
- Breakdown of mechanical components
- Weathering and wear due to age
- Lack of availability of replacement parts, with original components no longer manufactured
- Occasional damage caused by patients, leading to broken double glazed units
- Need to ensure full PFI compliance by installing like for like replacements
As parts for the original systems are now obsolete, repair is often no longer feasible, necessitating complete replacement.
Our Approach
Bennett Architectural has taken a structured and responsive approach to maintaining safe glazing performance across both hospital sites.
1. Condition-Based Replacement
We carry out replacements on an as needed basis when individual units fail, meaning all works are delivered efficiently without unnecessary disruption.
2. Like-for-Like Compliance
Because both hospitals operate under long term PFI agreements, all replacements must match the original specification.
We supply like-for-like glass louvres that mirror the 2009 installation, ensuring:
- Consistency in appearance
- Compliance with PFI maintenance obligations
- Seamless integration into existing façade systems
3. Replacement of Double-Glazed Units
Patient behaviour in certain hospital areas can lead to accidental breakage of glazing.
Units can also fail because of weather and time related wear and tear.
We provide rapid-response replacement of:
- Broken double glazed units
- Associated seals and fixings
- This helps maintain safety standards and protects the building envelope.
4. Collaborative Planning with Facilities Teams
All works are coordinated with hospital facilities management to ensure that:
- Clinical operations remain uninterrupted
- Sensitive areas are accessed safely and securely
- Work is completed efficiently with minimal impact on staff and patients
Outcome
Through our ongoing involvement, Bennett Architectural has helped both hospital sites maintain:
- Safe and secure glazing systems
- Compliance with PFI obligations
- Consistent façade performance despite ageing installations
- A reliable, long-term solution for obsolete components
- Swift replacement of broken or damaged glazing units
Our partnership with Royal Stoke and Haywood hospitals remains active as we continue delivering timely and specialist façade support across their estates.