Extension, Cell Replacement, and Fit Out Works at Navan Garda Station

McKeon Group completed a significant project for OPW at the Garda Station on Abbey Road in Navan, Co. Meath. The project involved the extension, cell replacement, and fit out works of a protected 1930s building and the construction of a new two-story infill building.

The project aimed to renovate the existing building, construct a new structure, and integrate both buildings to create a cohesive and functional space.

The Task

The project included the demolition of a single-story cell block and the renovation of the existing 1930s building, which is a protected structure. The works also involved the construction of a new two-story 400m² infill building with additional accommodation for a new expanded cell block on the ground floor and offices on the first floor.

Our team knew a comprehensive overhaul of the existing building's structure would be vital to successfully integrating these new structures.

The Solution

Our team constructed the extension building, which features a composite structure with reinforced concrete strip foundations, steel columns and beams, and pre-cast concrete first-floor slabs.

The external walls consist of blockwork cavity walls at the ground floor level and externally insulated blockwork walls at the first-floor level.

The roof is constructed of prefabricated timber trusses with metal sheeting and flat roof sections with a single-ply membrane covering. Furthermore, plastered blockwork walls, metal stud partition walls, and treble-glazed thermally broken alu-clad timber windows were used on the internal structure of the building.

Our team ensured the transition from old to new was seamless by upgrading the building's electrical, mechanical, fire alarm, and information technology systems, while the existing station remained operational at all times.

Finally, the team developed and completed the new cell block suite according to the latest OPW Specification of Works for National Anti-Ligature Upgrading of Cell and Prisoner Areas within Garda Stations.

Commitment to Health and Safety

The team was committed to ensuring the project's safety and, therefore, adhered to strict Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) regulations. The project was undertaken during COVID-19 restrictions, and our team ensured that they adhered to strict CIF protocols for the duration of the work.

The site was closed to the public, and deliveries were arranged with designated spotters and drivers to ensure security and minimise interruption.

Similarly, dedicated footpaths and carriageways were constructed to facilitate safe pedestrian movement. Proper site signage was maintained throughout the project to communicate safety protocols, and subcontractors were also required to submit Risk Assessment Method Statements (RAMS/MS).

The Results

The McKeon Group team successfully completed the extension, cell replacement, and fit out works at the Garda Station in Navan within the estimated cost limit, all while ensuring that we achieved each of the goals set out by the client.

We completed the project as a single-phase development without interruption, and the phased handover of the new extension allowed the existing facilities to continue being used during renovations.

The completed structure allows all employees and occupants to work efficiently, productively and to the highest safety standards.

McKeon Group

With more than 70 years of experience in the industry, McKeon Group have worked on a multitude of construction projects. If you need an team of experts for your project, contact us today.