University of Strathclyde, The National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS)

Project Summary

The National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) is a group of industry-led manufacturing research and development facilities with a network of partners across Scotland, operated by The University of Strathclyde.

The University set out to construct a ‘Factory of the Future’ in the heart of The Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS), an ambitious new manufacturing development near Glasgow Airport. Designed to be carbon neutral in operation, this facility would allow industry, academia, and the public sector to collaborate on groundbreaking manufacturing research to transform productivity levels.

MGAC's Role

Since 2019, MGAC has been providing cost consultancy services for this development. Our approach included collaborating with architects, project managers, structural engineers, and service engineers. Throughout the process, we consistently reviewed costs to ensure they aligned with the primary objectives of the project.

MGAC helped the University evaluate the project based on long-term costs and carbon impact, as well as initial capital investment. Lifecycle and whole-life costings have given our client a realistic view of the building’s long-term environmental impact. Working closely with the project’s BREEAM advisor from start to finish, we have consciously ensured the building’s lifecycle sustainability.

Challenges

NMIS is a complex project with stakeholders across multiple sectors. Ensuring all needs are met, and the project is within budget can be a challenge. With a close understanding of the brief and key project deliverables and by working attentively with subcontractors at the tender stage, we have mitigated the financial impact of delays and were able to deliver the project to the satisfaction of all stakeholders.

Success Factors

MGAC’s core values align with those of NMIS. We believe in promoting best practices in environmental sustainability, and our experience in this area has been a vital asset to our client. Our assistance with the project’s Lifecycle Assessment ensured that all decisions had been made with long-term function in mind.

Coupled with broad experience with technology and University facilities, our holistic approach to balancing project priorities with cost adjustments has been central to delivering a successful project.