Cranfield University Hydrogen Test Cell Building (Project 1)
MK43 0AL
- Sectors
- Education, Commercial
- Status
- In Progress
- Client
- Cranfield University
- Value
- £20m
- Delivery Team
- Anotherkind Architects, Chord Consult, KAM, G&T
- Our Services
- Civil, Structural, Flood Risk, Geotechnical, Geoenvironmental, Acoustics, Air Quality
Dice was appointed as part of a multidisciplinary team to deliver engineering services for a new hydrogen test cell building at Cranfield University. The scheme forms part of the University’s wider £70m Hydrogen Fuel Aviation Research Project.
The development provides a specialist single-storey industrial facility incorporating hydrogen test cells, service and delivery yards, access roads, car parking and supporting infrastructure. A comprehensive civil, structural, and geoenvironmental engineering approach was developed to support the delivery of a specialist hydrogen testing and research facility, ensuring resilience, operational efficiency, and long-term adaptability. Solutions included:
Design of New Industrial Building With Hydrogen Test Cell Workshops
A purpose-built industrial structure was designed to accommodate hydrogen test cell workshops, incorporating robust structural systems and specialist spatial requirements to support high-risk testing environments. The design prioritised safety, flexibility, and future scalability for evolving research needs.
Development of Service Yard, Access Roads and Operational Infrastructure
The external works strategy included the design and coordination of service yards, internal access roads, and operational hardstanding areas. Layouts were optimised to support efficient vehicle movement, logistical operations, and safe segregation of testing and service activities.
Sustainable Drainage Strategy Using Permeable Paving, Attenuation Basins and Pumping Systems
A sustainable drainage system (SuDS) was implemented, incorporating permeable paving, attenuation basins, and engineered pumping solutions. This approach effectively managed surface water runoff, reduced flood risk, and supported compliance with environmental discharge requirements.
Foul and Surface Water Drainage Design With Private Pumping Chambers and Rising Mains
A fully integrated drainage strategy was developed, including separate foul and surface water systems. Due to site levels and constraints, private pumping chambers and rising mains were incorporated to ensure reliable discharge and long-term operational resilience.
Flood Risk and Ground Engineering Input to Support Buildability and Resilience
Detailed flood risk assessment and ground engineering advice were provided to inform site levels, foundation strategy, and drainage design. This ensured the development was resilient to extreme weather events and constructible within existing ground conditions.