Top marks for Gartec’s lift installation

Building Contractors McGoff & Byrne Ltd selected Gartec to install a platform lift into Loreto Grammar School's latest building project.  Extending the building from two stories to three, allowed the Cheshire-based school to significantly increase its usable teaching space and the addition of a new platform lift ensured access for all pupils and staff.

The Prime 7000XT lift was specified with a particular user group in mind - school children.  Thus Gartec recommended features to suit the environment, a School Locking Facility to lock the lift to non-keyholders, and anti-tamper buttons designed for robust usage.  From a project design principle, it was also essential the lift fitted in with the elegant design of the school extension; to this end Gartec's highly recommended glazed shaft system was selected.

The school wished to utilise as much of the internal building space as possible, so working with the contractors, architects and the school, Gartec recommended locating the lift externally, anchoring it to the new glazed atrium of the school. This threw up several challenges for the Gartec team to overcome.  Firstly, new fixing points had to be designed to anchor the lift to the atrium's steel beams.  Secondly, to minimise heat loss from the building, composite insulation panels were installed replacing some glazed sections covering the lift machinery. 

The installation of the platform lift has allowed the school to maximise its limited space to the full and ensured access for all potential users, as required by the Equalities Act.  Additionally, the lift's modern Scandinavian design means it blends seamlessly with the design of the glazed atrium.

The project handover took place in February 2012.

Stuart Moore from building contractor McGoff & Byrne Ltd commented: 

"Having successfully worked with Gartec on a number of previous projects, we knew exactly what to expect. The installation of the Prime 7000XT at Loreto Grammar School highlighted how good team work, technical expertise and a well-designed product can all come together to produce a positive end result and a satisfied client."