Delivering temporary structures for the Ministry of Defence is not a typical project. The standards are higher, the security requirements are stricter and the expectations around operational continuity are absolute. When we were appointed to deliver a comprehensive suite of welfare structures at one of the MoD’s primary operational sites in Manston, Kent, we understood from the outset that everything had to be right first time.
The Brief
The MoD required a complete welfare facility to support personnel at Manston while a major long-term infrastructure programme was underway. The requirement covered multiple different functions simultaneously: reception and processing, high-capacity catering, family support zones and fully equipped operational offices.
These structures were needed for a full 12-month contract and had to perform to the same standard in January as in August. Climate control was a core specification requirement, not an optional extra.
Eight Bespoke Structures
The solution comprised eight individual solid wall welfare structures, each specified for its intended function. Dedicated reception and waiting areas for new arrivals and processing. High-capacity catering facilities with full kitchen equipment and dining areas. Family support zones with appropriate furnishings, AV systems and play areas. Fully fitted operational office spaces for administrative and planning functions.
Every structure was built using our solid wall panel system, chosen for its strength, security, insulation performance and professional finish. Sub-frame levelled floors were installed throughout, creating a safe and seamless working environment that met accessibility requirements across all eight buildings.
The Fit-Out
The scope went well beyond the structures themselves. WeBuild managed the complete interior installation across all eight buildings. Seating, soft furnishings and partition systems in waiting and family areas. Full catering equipment in the dining structures. Desk, chair and storage installation in all office buildings. Advanced AV systems including screens, sound and conferencing equipment. Integrated utility electronics covering power distribution, lighting and data infrastructure. Play area equipment in the family support zones.
All eight structures had individually zoned HVAC systems that maintained appropriate temperatures in each building regardless of the season. For a year-round, operationally critical deployment, this was not a luxury. It was essential.
This type of complex public sector welfare deployment is also something we do for councils, NHS trusts and other public bodies.
Site Logistics
Delivering eight structures to an active MoD site required careful coordination. All deliveries were pre-approved and scheduled to avoid disrupting ongoing operational activities. Our installation team worked within the site security requirements throughout, coordinating daily with site management during the installation phase.
The installation was completed within the agreed timeframe and structures were handed over ahead of the programme commencement, giving the MoD team time to complete their own setup before operations began.
The Result
All eight welfare structures operated successfully throughout the full one-year contract. The MoD’s feedback highlighted the quality of the fit-out, the performance of the climate control in winter conditions and the reliability of the structures across the full contract period.
Full project details are on our Ministry of Defence case study page. To discuss a welfare structure requirement, whether for a construction site, a public sector programme or a large-scale event, get in touch here or call 0203 758 3315.