Altcar

Design and build headquarters supporting defence training operations at Altcar Camp.

Altcar | CASE STUDY DETAILS

KEY FEATURES

Sedum Roof Installation
Steel Frame Construction
BREEAM Excellent Target
Design & Build Headquarters
Open-Plan Office Accommodation

Delivering a Sustainable Headquarters for Defence Training Operations

Whitfield & Brown was appointed by the North West of England & the Isle of Man Reserve Forces & Cadets Association (NW RFCA) to deliver a new purpose-built headquarters at Altcar Training Camp in Hightown. The project involved the design and construction of a modern two-storey office building that would support the organisation’s operational requirements while reflecting its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Located on one of the UK’s premier military training facilities, the new headquarters provides a high-quality working environment for staff supporting reserve forces and cadet organisations across the North West region. The building includes open-plan office accommodation, meeting and conference facilities, staff amenities and supporting infrastructure designed to encourage collaboration, communication and efficient day-to-day operations.

Design & Build Delivery

Delivered under a JCT Design & Build contract, Whitfield & Brown worked closely with Paddock Johnson Partnership and the wider design team to create a facility that balances functionality, sustainability and architectural quality. The completed building combines contemporary design with materials carefully selected to complement the surrounding coastal landscape and military environment.

The development features a steel frame structure with precast concrete floors, piled foundations and a distinctive external envelope comprising brickwork, glazing and contemporary cladding systems. Extensive glazing maximises natural daylight throughout the building, creating a bright and welcoming workplace while reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

Sustainability at the Core

Environmental performance was a key consideration throughout the project, with the building designed to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating. Several sustainable features were incorporated to minimise operational energy consumption and enhance occupant wellbeing.

These include:

Sedum roof installation to promote biodiversity and improve rainwater management.
Sensor-controlled lighting systems to reduce unnecessary energy use.
Brise soleil solar shading to minimise glare and overheating.
Optimised building orientation to maximise natural daylight.
Power supplied via the client’s on-site solar farm infrastructure.
High-performance building fabric and glazing systems.

The result is a low-carbon office environment that aligns with the client’s long-term sustainability objectives while providing a comfortable and productive workplace for its occupants.

Overcoming Complex Site Challenges

Constructing within an operational military training environment required careful planning and coordination throughout the project lifecycle. Working closely with the client and key stakeholders, Whitfield & Brown successfully managed all construction activities while ensuring the ongoing operation of the camp remained unaffected.

The project’s coastal location also presented significant engineering challenges. Situated on a flood plain and characterised by heavily saturated sandy ground conditions, the site required a specialist foundation solution. Approximately 80 piles were installed to create a stable foundation, supported by a dewatering system designed to manage groundwater during construction. Extensive liaison was also undertaken with neighbouring residents to minimise disruption throughout the piling works programme.

Creating Long-Term Value

Beyond providing a modern headquarters facility, the project generated wider benefits through the employment of local apprentices and engagement with regional supply chain partners. These opportunities helped support skills development within the construction industry while contributing to the local economy.

The completed headquarters now provides NW RFCA with a sustainable, future-focused operational base that supports its continued work with reserve forces and cadet organisations throughout the North West. The scheme demonstrates Whitfield & Brown’s ability to successfully deliver complex commercial developments within operationally sensitive environments while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety and sustainability.