The Defence & National Rehabilitation Centre (DNRC)

Mortar from CPI EuroMix has been chosen for the construction of what is likely to be one of the world’s best clinical rehabilitation centres for the armed forces. The Defence & National Rehabilitation Centre (DNRC) is an initiative by the late 6th Duke of Westminster to provide 21st century clinical rehabilitation for the armed forces and, potentially, for civilians too.

The Defence facility becomes operational this year (the first patients starting to be treated in September) with opportunities for the complementary National (civilian) facility currently under consideration by Government.

Respecting the DNRC’s setting within the Grade II Stanford Hall Estate with its listed house and parkland, the DNRC blends innovation with tradition. The Defence facility building’s interiors are bespoke and contemporary. They are specifically designed and laid out to help patients and clinicians. Approximately 95% of the facility is new build – the use of the Hall is ancillary (offices, staff accommodation etc) and will complement the clinical work across the new build.

Designed by John Simpson Architects, the Defence facility buildings reflect on the monastic origins of hospitals in terms of how attending to the wellbeing and spiritual needs of patients is every bit as important as their physical health in motivating people to get better. This approach influenced the arrangement of the buildings, courtyards and gardens.

CPI EuroMix provided Lee Marley Brickwork with 2,500 tonnes of special mix mortar, with the incorporation of grit for aesthetic purposes. The company has also provided its innovative silo mixing station.

The silo mixing station, capable of holding up to 35 tonnes of dry mortar, is delivered to site where it is plugged into water and power. As required, at the simple touch of a button, the silo produces a perfectly mixed mortar. The system also minimises waste as well as maintaining the mix and colours, which helps to reduce the environmental impact of projects during construction.

CPI EuroMix produces a wide range of mortars which are available in an extensive range of standard and bespoke colours. Its mortars are accredited to BS EN ISO 9001:2000, the industry standard accreditation for quality control. Able to offer high grade mortar alongside its exact premixing silo mixing stations, CPI EuroMix ensures that projects benefit from quality mortars with high bond and compressive strength, durability and colour.