Designed by APL Architects and engineers from Healy Consulting, the purpose-built facility will feature several unique elements to allow for the testing of heavy equipment and machinery used for mining. Reinforced internal and external floor slab will support machines of up to 100 tonnes, while pits approximately 3.5m deep have been designed to enable testing of roof support equipment used in the mining industry, which are put through their paces with loads up to 2,500 tonnes.
The unit comprises a 43,300 sq ft manufacturing and testing area, with 38,500 sq ft of office space. The project is due for completion by summer 2016. Groundworks are underway and construction is set to begin in the next month.
Andrew Russell, director of Russells Construction, said: “We’re pleased to be working with Joy Global on the design and build of this state-of-the-art new facility. It’s a really interesting project with a number of specific requirements. We have worked closely with the architect, engineers and the client to develop a scheme which will be perfect for their needs.”
This is the third unit to be built at Logistics North, Howarth Estates’ new 550-acre industrial park at junction 4 of the M61. It was the site’s location combined with the chance to design and construct a bespoke, purpose-built space that convinced Joy Global to relocate from its current site at Ince, Wigan.
Richard Hopper, engineering project manager for Joy Global, said: “The new test facility will allow Joy Global to continue testing powered roof supports to meet customer specifications. It also will include space for staff and technology that are part of our JoySmart℠ Solutions, integrations of our smart connected products and systems, advanced analytics and direct services customised to solve customers’ toughest mining challenges.”
Computer generated image of how the new Joy Global facility at Logistics North will look
