UK’s ‘most powerful’ MRI scanner takes shape

Work to extend the University of Nottingham’s specialist imaging facility is on track to be completed in 2027, Derby contractor GF Tomlinson says.

Construction on a 2,700 sq ft extension at the Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre, located at the University of Nottingham’s University Park Campus, began earlier this year – with the new building set to house the most powerful MRI scanner in the UK.

The “highly specialised” extension will accommodate an 11.7 Tesla Ultra High Field MRI scanner, a 70-tonne system that the university says will enhance the UK’s capability for world-leading brain imaging research.

Once operational, the facility will offer vital insight into human brain function and play a “pivotal role” in strengthening national research into neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s, according to professor Richard Bowtell, director of the Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre.

“We’re extremely proud to be building on Sir Peter’s Mansfield’s legacy that started here with the invention of MRI in the 1970’s,” he said.

“The Ultra-High field scanner is the next generation in technology and will provide a step change in the capabilities of imaging research, opening up new opportunities for collaboration and innovation to bring new understanding to a range of diseases.”

The scheme has been developed by a specialist project team including the University of Nottingham, project manager – EDGE, architect, principal designer and structural engineer – William Saunders, M&E engineers – Mellor Bromley Mechanical and Morecroft Electrical, and cost consultant (PQS) – AtkinsRéalis.

Main contractor GF Tomlinson has previously embarked on a number of projects with the University of Nottingham, including the Biodiscovery Institute which opened in 2020, with the contractor currently delivering projects across three of the University’s campuses, including the Hydrogen Propulsion Systems Lab at Jubilee Campus, alongside the Clinical Training Centre roof replacement at University Park.

Andy Sewards, the company’s group chairman, said the project would leave a “lasting legacy in clinical research.”

“Having previously completed landmark schemes such as the Biodiscovery Institute, we are proud to be working once again at University Park Campus – as well as delivering projects across the University’s Castle Meadow and Jubilee Campuses,” he said.

“The Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre extension will become a cornerstone of medical excellence in the UK, and we’re pleased to be contributing our expertise to such a nationally significant facility.”