The PAS Refurbishment Project is being carried out in eight phases, over a five-year period. Works involve a multitude of disciplines being undertaken on numerous shelters, originally constructed in the 1970s and in need of an upgrade.

Working in a live military airbase environment presents a number of logistical challenges; however, the completion of the second phase was carried out ahead of schedule through a carefully orchestrated programme of work, ensuring disruption was minimised.

Andrew Avery, project manager for VolkerFitzpatrick, said: “The second phase of this project has achieved outstanding workmanship, adherence to budget and has surpassed all expectations. A review of the lessons learnt to date will allow us to reiterate and improve our delivery further, as we move into the next phase.”

Mechanical works on the project comprised the installation of a ducted extractor system, while the electrical works included the installation of new supplies for each building, from a private distribution substation, along with new switchgear and distribution boards, new power supplies to specialist communications and high security equipment, and new internal, external and emergency lighting systems.

The team cleaned and treated the internal surfaces of each PAS, applied anti-corrosion and anti-condensation paint, and re-laid specialist floor coatings and joint sealants, as well as working on each of the nearly 100 tonne main doors, with particular focus on the improved door motor drive units. The team also overhauled the concrete jet exhaust efflux chambers and external areas, and re-instated new material, to re-create the original finishes.

The work delivered on this contract will enable the use of the PAs by aircraft for many years to come.