GMI Construction Group PLC

GMI Construction Group has marked a key milestone in the creation of York’s new acquired brain injury hospital with the signing of a steel beam being used in the build.

The metal framework for The Disabilities Trust’s new facility, which will help rehabilitate adults with an acquired brain injury in a way that maximises their independence, is taking shape at the city’s Chocolate Works.

GMI is the contractor for the new facility, which is being delivered by property developer HBD on behalf of The Disabilities Trust.

The development, due to be completed by February, will provide 36 beds across four wards and four assessment flats alongside courtyards and a therapeutic garden.

Andrew Hurcomb, GMI Construction’s Group’s Divisional Managing Director, said: “This flagship development is near the heart of one of Britain’s most historic cities and GMI is immensely proud to be involved in helping to deliver this much-needed purpose-built medical facility.

“We are delighted to welcome some of the people the Trust supports to mark this construction milestone by inviting them on site to sign a steel beam that will form part of the steel framework that is currently being installed.”

Bill Chidgey, The Disabilities Trust Director of Corporate Services, said: “It is fantastic to see our new hospital taking shape. Once open, it will provide an enhanced user experience and offer first class rehabilitation services in a modern setting.”

Tom Wheldon, Director at HBD and Head of Region, said: “We are making great progress on this life-changing medical facility - it’s extremely satisfying for all involved to see it reach this important milestone and to celebrate the occasion by involving those who will be using the building.”

The new hospital will secure around 145 healthcare jobs and retain a vital mental health support service in the city following the closure of the Trust’s York House, which had operated at The Retreat on Heslington Road, for more than 20 years.

The new hospital is the latest stage of HBD’s award-winning Chocolate Works development; a major nine-year regeneration project that began with the restoration of the former Terry’s chocolate factory.

Following its closure, the iconic site had fallen into a state of disrepair and when HBD bought it in 2013, five of its listed buildings were on English Heritage’s Buildings at Risk Register.

GMI, which is celebrating its 35^th year in business, has a proven track record in delivering high quality, energy efficient, often complicated, projects from inception to completion with a strong focus on innovation and technology.

The Disabilities Trust provides community-based and residential support for adults with acquired brain injury, complex physical or learning disabilities and for people with autism, including those in education with its York unit rehabilitating and supporting adults with an acquired brain injury.

HBD is one of the UK’s most active and well-established property developers. With seven offices across the country, it focuses on delivering large-scale projects in a number of key sectors, industrial and logistics, residential and urban regeneration.

Ends

News release issued on behalf of GMI Construction Group PLC by Recognition PR.For further information contact Andrew Douglas on 01325 363436

Photo caption: Orla Eves (front), resident of the existing ABI hospital in York, signs her name on the steel of the new hospital at the Chocolate Works. Back left to right, Andrew Hurcomb, GMI Construction Group, Irene Sobowale, CEO, Disabilities Trust and Tom Wheldon from HBD

About Us

GMI Construction Group PLC is an established and successful UK contractor and construction services company providing specialist design and build capabilities spanning multiple sectors.

Celebrating 35 years in 2022, the company has a proven track record for the delivery of high quality, energy efficient, often complicated projects from inception to completion with a strong focus on innovation and technology.

It operates across multiple sectors and markets including commercial offices, mixed-use buildings, residential, retail, education, distribution and logistics, manufacturing, hotels, and leisure.

Driven by strong core values, its focus is on exceeding customers to leave a positive legacy in the communities we serve, protecting the environment for the future generation and promoting a safe and inclusive workplace for our colleagues.

https://gmiconstructiongroup.co.uk/