ISG Secures Third Catapult Scheme

The Future Cities Catapult project in Farringdon is the latest centre of excellence created by the government-backed Catapult initiative, which aims to focus UK creative talent across a range of growth sectors and bring innovative solutions and products to market quickly.

Running concurrently with ISG’s Digital Catapult scheme, based close to the Silicon Roundabout in London, the Future Cities project sees the contractor transform a four-storey building on Sekforde Street into a state-of-the-art facility with office and exhibition space. ISG will strip out the former commercial office accommodation back to shell and core and install new mechanical and electrical services throughout the building, creating an industrial-style interior with exposed brickwork, concrete and wood floor finishes.

At lower ground floor, a new 72-seat auditorium will be formed, alongside break out and meeting space. The ground floor incorporates the main reception area with feature LED arc displays, as well as a city café and flexible exhibition space. Exhibits will highlight solutions for integrating services across areas such as health, transport, energy and public safety to boost city economies and directly benefit citizens. The upper floors feature majority open plan office accommodation, with the project scheduled for completion in spring 2015.

Paul Sharp, divisional director of ISG’s Engineering Services business, commented: “Our specialist technical fit out capability has proved a key factor in securing three of the very first Catapult schemes to reach site in London. Our first project – the Cell Therapy Catapult at Guy’s Hospital was a challenging fast-track scheme, completed to exacting clinical standards in a busy hospital environment and proved an excellent showcase for our delivery credentials.

“By focusing talent, fostering innovation and collaboration, the Future Cities Catapult is set to become an important resource bringing together business, academics, investors and city leaders for the advancement of theory and practical solutions to support expanding urban centres across the globe.”