CUSTOMER:

Queen Mary University London

PROJECT:
Infrastructure services upgrade

The Challenge

Queen Mary University of London (QMU), a Russell Group university with over 25,000 students, required a critical HVAC system upgrade across two of its core buildings—the Francis Bancroft Building and the Library—located at the Mile End Campus. Both buildings contain sensitive research labs and high-occupancy areas that demanded continuous operation throughout the works. Avoiding power outages and maintaining environmental conditions were essential to protect research integrity and prevent disruption to student learning.

The Solution

DMA Group delivered the upgrade through a dedicated on-site team led by our Project Director, managing the complex integration of new systems without impacting building availability. Key enabling works included:

  • Isolation of the incoming Low Voltage (LV) panel, allowing for the installation of a new critical services panel with generator backup.
  • Temporary generators and cooling units to maintain operation of the Building Services Unit (BSU) during works.

To ensure a smooth project rollout, DMA maintained consistent collaboration with QMUL’s estates team, student representatives, and local stakeholders—prioritising transparency, communication, and minimal disruption.

Project Scope and Key Deliverables

Francis Bancroft Building

System Upgrades:

  • Sill line heating system upgraded to a two-pipe system with close-control
  • New Essential Services Low Voltage (LV) switchboard
  • Refurbished air handling units (AHUs)
  • BMS upgraded to IQ4 for greater efficiency and monitoring

Service Delivery Overview:

  • Design, supply, and install 400 KVA generator with 30-metre exhaust flue
  • Civil works including 30m trenching and mast base construction
  • New essential services LV panel and field-mounted distribution boards
  • Full compliance with Home Office guidelines
  • Refurbishment of 13 AHUs, duct cleaning and system rebalancing
  • Perimeter heating upgrade across all 5 floors
  • Sub-metering added to upgraded BMS

Library

System Upgrades:

  • Replacement of AHUs, boilers, DX plant, and ancillaries
  • BMS upgraded to IQ4 to support improved energy management

Service Delivery Overview:

  • Installation of new sub circuits and containment
  • Rectification of existing wiring defects in student spaces
  • New LV panel designed for BMS integration, enabling remote operation
  • New DX cooling system and supply air system enhancements
  • Boiler replacement and complete air distribution system rebalancing
  • Sub-metering added to BMS

The Outcome

DMA successfully delivered a seamless HVAC upgrade across two major university buildings—without disrupting daily operations, lectures, or research activities. The new systems enhanced building performance, ensured compliance, and future-proofed QMU’s infrastructure with:

  • Improved indoor air quality and comfort for students, researchers, and staff
  • Increased system reliability through upgraded LV infrastructure and backup generation
  • Enhanced energy efficiency and monitoring via state-of-the-art BMS with sub-metering
  • Zero unplanned downtime during the project
  • Strengthened client trust through transparent project management and stakeholder collaboration