The Future of Healthcare Construction: How MMC is Shaping the NHS New Hospital Programme

What MMC brings to healthcare construction

The use of offsite construction and prefabricated components is not new in healthcare. These methods have already proven their value in pandemic response facilities and modular internal fitouts. However, the scale and scope of the NHP present unprecedented challenges for the construction industry. While MMC promises cost savings, speed, and sustainability, the industry is not yet fully equipped to deliver MMC at the scale required for this ambitious programme. There are concerns that the expected benefits of MMC may not be fully realised unless the industry evolves quickly to meet this new demand.

Scaling MMC: Overcoming key challenges

One of the primary obstacles to scaling MMC in healthcare is the current climate the construction industry finds itself in. The sector still lacks the necessary standardisation of components, a robust supply chain, and manufacturing capabilities widespread enough for such a quantity of prefabricated elements. Designers and engineers must therefore balance the need for MMC with the practicalities of its implementation. For the NHP, which demands a uniform approach across multiple sites, standardisation is key. However, healthcare projects are highly complex, and rigid standardisation could lead to inefficiencies if designs do not account for site-specific requirements. Achieving a balance between the efficiency of standardisation and the adaptability required for site-specific needs is crucial.

Bouygues UK’s adaptive approach to MMC

Bouygues UK recognises that MMC cannot be a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, we advocate for a flexible MMC strategy, selecting and integrating MMC typologies that align best with each project’s specific needs. By promoting a competitive and adaptable MMC market, we drive innovation and ensure that prefabrication is strategically implemented where it adds the most value.

To maximise the benefits of MMC, it is essential that these principles are embedded early in the design phase. Attempting to retrofit MMC elements later in the process often leads to inefficiencies and missed opportunities. At Bouygues UK, we  pride ourselves on our commitment to early engagement with stakeholders, ensuring that MMC is an integral part of the design from the outset.

Sustainability in healthcare buildings: meeting NHS net zero goals

One of the standout benefits of MMC is its potential for sustainability – a priority shared by the NHS and Bouygues UK. When it comes to the creation of hospitals that are not only fit for purpose today but also adaptable for future needs, MMC offers significant sustainability benefits. Prefabrication processes generate less waste, and offsite manufacturing can reduce carbon emissions associated with construction activities. This is becoming increasingly important as the healthcare sector faces growing pressure to minimise its environmental impact.

Building the future of healthcare

The integration of MMC in hospital construction represents a significant shift in how we approach large-scale infrastructure projects. While challenges remain, we believe that with the right strategic approach, MMC can transform the future of healthcare construction to build more efficient and sustainable hospitals that meet the evolving needs of the NHS.

As Bouygues UK continues to support the delivery of the NHP, pushing the boundaries of what is possible with MMC, our focus will always remain delivering high-quality, well-equipped, and efficient facilities that enable healthcare professionals to provide the best patient care.