Transformation of existing external roof terrace into physiotherapy space.

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HLP’s design and illustrative material assisted the South Manchester NHS Trust, in partnership with Opcare, to apply for military funding to transform an existing external roof terrace into an imaginative ‘test track’ of different materials. A variety of textured surfaces and level changes were designed to provide an external physiotherapy space and opportunity for patients to test and become used to prosthetic limbs on different surfaces.

Opened by Andy Burnham, the project was part of the refurbishment of an existing office building to create Manchester’s new specialised ability centre, complete with one of the largest specialist prosthetic physiotherapy departments in the UK.

Following the successful funding application HLP were commissioned to design and contract manage construction, responding creatively to constraints of structural stability, waterproofing and access during construction. All materials were crane-lifted onto the terrace to overcome limited, pedestrian-only access.

A creative working relationship with an early-appointed contractor responded to a limited £23k budget to create the therapy terrace that also provides an attractive semi-private psychological break-out relaxation space for staff and users of the centre.