PSBJ June 2013

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June 2013

Forging new partnerships Shared vision kick-starts major regeneration scheme

Infection control Copper specification to reduce risk

Urban landscape Modern materials for smart streets

Enhanced value Improve play experience with a simple tool

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Cover image

Helen Evans, the Chief Executive of leading developer and regenerator Network Housing Group, discusses how partnerships are the way forward for affordable housing, as Network kicks off a long-awaited £520m Alperton regeneration project. See page 8.

Welcome. . .

Editor Hannah Frackiewicz hannah@mixedmediainfo.com Managing Director Sam Ball sam@mixedmediainfo.com Publication Manager Steve Gull steve@mixedmediainfo.com Account Executive Adam Barron adam@mixedmediainfo.com Studio Manager Chris Lilly chris@mixedmediainfo.com Artworker/Sub-editor Ben Bridgeman ben@mixedmediainfo.com Accounts Simone Jones simone@mixedmediainfo.com Publisher Mixed Media Information Barham Court, Teston, Maidstone, Kent, ME18 5BZ T: 01622 232702 F: 01622 816874 www.mixedmediainfo.com www.psbj.co.uk

Keeping abreast of Government policies and key construction strategies is integral to the successful procurement of public sector contracts. As well as gaining an insight into how best to implement and action these measures, a continuous dialogue between the construction sector and Government departments is advantageous. After its successful launch last year, Government Construction Summit is back once again to present the industry with a unique opportunity to hear from, meet and network with those who are responsible for shaping Government policies.

Covering topics such as BIM, Exports, Low Carbon, Sustainability and Investment and Funding, GCS has been hailed as one of the most important events of the year for the construction sector. The conference takes place on 2nd July at Park Plaza Westminster and offers an unrivalled programme of seminars at excellent value for money. Visit www. governmentconstructionsummit.co.uk for more information. For those unable to attend, read about all the highlights in PSBJ’s upcoming August issue.

Meanwhile in this month’s edition, Spacehive talks to PSBJ about the changing landscape of public funding. In response to the current climate where public spending has been cut considerably, Chris Gourlay, Founder and CEO of Spacehive, explains how councils are increasingly turning to crowdfunding to fill the budget gap.

Elsewhere in our Healthcare focus, Pegler Yorkshire discusses the benefits of Antimicrobial Copper taps and the recent recommendations made by the HPA to combat Healthcare Associated Infections. Continuing the focus within hospital environments, Wandsworth Group demonstrates how dual functionality when it comes to lighting can offer both patient comfort and effective medical assistance.

I hope you enjoy this issue. To access all of the features and supplier information in this month’s issue, don’t forget you can download, free of charge, PSBJ’s latest state-of-theart app for smart phones and tablets! Concise and user-friendly, this resource is ideal for architects and specifiers on the move who need information and knowledge fast. Simply scan the code on this month’s front cover to start downloading.

Hannah Frackiewicz

Hannah Frackiewicz | Editor | hannah@mixedmediainfo.com Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and return addressed envelope. No responsibility will be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editors hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographics or artistic belongs to Mixed Media Information Ltd. The Publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed in editorial material or otherwise do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher. The Publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.

Public Sector Build Journal

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Contents

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06 News PSBJ presents a round up of the latest news within the public sector built environment, including newly-awarded contracts, planning applications, company ratings and projects making award shortlists.

08 Upfront

18 Talking Point

22 Flooring & Surfaces

In spite of setbacks and delays, Network Housing Group’s new Alperton scheme is a unique example of how a close working partnership between the public and private sector has kick-started an important affordable housing project.

In response to the current climate where public spending has been cut considerably, Chris Gourlay, Founder and CEO of Spacehive, explains how councils are increasingly turning to crowdfunding to fill the budget gap.

The installation of a raised floor system can remove the need to dig up an entire surface or disrupt foot and vehicle traffic.

Mike Wilderink of Buzon UK outlines the limitations for traditionally laid underground services.

14 Healthcare

20 Lighting

24 Paints, Coatings & Finishes

Antimicrobial Copper surfaces and taps are ideal for the healthcare environment where their ability to kill bacteria will supplement infection control measures, as Pegler Yorkshire explains.

Dual functionality in lighting allows flexibility such as patient comfort and effective medical use. Wandsworth Group’s The Wave enabled Norfolk & Norwich Hospital to meet essential requirements.

The benefits of antimicrobial additives are largely unseen which makes marketing these products complicated. Yet these products have long been used as a means of improving hygiene, explains Steritouch.

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Public Sector Build Journal

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26 Paints, Coatings & Finishes

36 Building Access

A range of Glidden Trade coatings has been used on the refurbishment of Heritage Community School in Clowne, Derbyshire, delivering a professional finish.

In light of the upcoming CE compliance, David Hindle from Ingersoll Rand looks at the key considerations when specifying entrance system components and how choosing the right material can make a big difference to risks and responsibilities.

32 Leisure Simply Play, supported by play specialist Timberplay and Sheffield Hallam University, aims to offer an accessible assessment process, built from the foundations of play theory and guidance on play space design.

Beth Cooper explains more.

34 Street Furniture Marshalls Street Furniture’s Marco Maccio discusses how choosing the right material can prolong the life of street furniture and reduce the need for expensive repair and maintenance.

42 32

35

40 Education Ryder Architecture demonstrates how two existing facilities merged to form one outstanding centre for teaching, learning and performance – Denton Community College, now accommodating 1350 students.

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38 Product Showcase A dedicated focus of industry news, products and installations to help public sector professionals make informed choices when planning and specifying.

Online Enquiry 003 www.psbj.co.uk/advert-enquiry Public Sector Build Journal

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News

Balfour Beatty makes a splash in Southwark

Balfour Beatty has announced the award of the £18.5m Elephant & Castle leisure centre scheme for Southwark Council. The Elephant and Castle Leisure Centre project will provide a brand new modern leisure facility on the site of the existing facility in the heart of South London’s Elephant and Castle district. Designed in collaboration with Southwark Council the new threestorey facility will include a 25m community swimming pool, a separate 12m learner pool incorporating a moveable floor and sauna and steam room facilities. Sustainability has been a key element with the building designed to achieve a BREEAM ‘very good’ rating along with the inclusion of a combined heat and boiler plant, photovoltaic panels and grey water recycling system.

£350m Gateshead scheme goes for planning Planning applications for the first phases of one of the most ambitious housing regeneration projects seen on Tyneside in decades have been submitted to Gateshead Council.

Plans for 472 new homes on sites in Saltwell & Bensham, Deckham and Birtley in Gateshead have been submitted by Gateshead Regeneration Partnership (GRP).

The proposals are part of a pioneering 2400 home, £350m scheme that aims to transform housing provision across the borough and breathe new life into local communities.

Cllr Mick Henry, leader of Gateshead Council, says: “This is a hugely significant milestone in housing regeneration here in Gateshead. We embarked upon this ambitious venture with an aspiration to bridge the gaps between the public and private sector housing industry, to work together to revitalise communities at their very heart, and to tackle the shortage of family and affordable housing.”

procedures. Receipt of the IiP standard is based on three key principles including developing strategies, taking action and evaluating the resulting impact on the performance of an organisation.

Four Housing Group has successfully held the IiP standard since 2000 and has been assessed against the award’s principles since then every three years. Most recently, the housing provider received the standard after an external IiP assessor interviewed a sample of the organisation’s staff to ensure Four Housing Group continued to meet the standard’s criteria and had continually improved since the last review.

ISG wins £6m Free School scheme ISG has been awarded a £6m fast-track project, via the North West Construction Hub (NWCH) framework, to refurbish and fit out the building that will become the permanent home for Greater Manchester’s very first Free School.

The project sees ISG transform a disused secondary school in Atherton, Greater Manchester, into Atherton Community School; a Free School delivered by Chapel St Community Schools Trust, along with local parents, teachers and community leaders. The school currently operates with just 42 Year 7 students out of rooms at the local town hall and, once the vacant school building has been refurbished, Atherton Community School will move across to its new site in September 2013, where it will have a maximum intake of 650 pupils.

The project is the latest high profile scheme secured by ISG as part of the influential NWCH, which has seen the company working across the entire North West region.

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Public Sector Build Journal

New town gets the green light

Four Housing Group awarded Investors in People Not for profit housing provider, Four Housing Group, has once again been recognised with a national award, Investors in People [IiP], after successfully demonstrating the organisation supports and develops staff in a way that contributes effectively to Four Housing Group’s organisational objectives.

The IiP standard recognises the improvement in an organisation’s performance through its people and is based on tangible results, not just

Ambitious plans for Chapelton, Scotland’s largest new town, have been given the go-ahead paving the way for work to begin on the first new neighbourhood, 10 miles south of Aberdeen. The town will offer a pedestrian friendly, mixed-use environment for residents, with a focus on community living. From an extensive range of homes and schools through to a well-planned town centre and green space, developers will deliver a new sustainable community on a highly significant scale. The long-term masterplan includes a total of seven neighbourhoods, creating the potential for up to 8000 homes, thus making it Scotland’s largest new settlement for a generation.

News

Saint-Gobain tops the FTSE4Good ESG ratings International construction materials company Saint-Gobain has been named as the leading construction and materials company in the FTSE4Good ESG (environmental, social and governance) ratings. The FTSE4Good ESG ratings were created to ensure environmental, social and governance factors are incorporated into investment decision making and stewardship. Ranking only companies that have passed the FTSE4Good Index criteria, FTSE4Good evaluates the corporate performance in six areas – environmental management, climate change, supply chain labour standards, human and labour rights, corporate governance and countering bribery. Saint-Gobain tops the league table for construction and material companies with an overall ESG rating of 4.4 out of a maximum possible score of 5, putting them ahead of Gebait N, Lafarge, Acciona SA, Assa Abloy and CRH.

Preston Manor shortlisted for three awards

Preston Manor Lower School in Wembley HA9, designed by HLM for Brent Council, has been shortlisted for three awards – the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Awards for Infrastructure, and Design and Innovation, and the Greenbuild Award 2013 for Education Newbuild. The council invested £8.5m in the new lower school, which created 420 new primary places from reception to year 6 at the allthrough foundation school Preston Manor, Carlton Avenue, in order to help meet the urgent demand for school places locally.

Brent Leader, Councillor Muhammed Butt says: “These awards show our renewed commitment to building world-class schools to provide a better future for all Brent children is paying off. Education is the most powerful tool we have to eradicate poverty and inequality, and the best education requires the best schools possible.”

Working for the council, independent design, environment and energy consultancy LDA Design, has developed its concept design from inception to a full construction package for delivery on site during the summer.

The scheme, to be called Jubilee Square, will create a new public space close to the cathedral alongside numerous other public realm improvements nearby, including the Richard III visitors centre. The project is part of the council’s wider Connecting Leicester vision to create a thriving heart to the city, and reconnect key areas for pedestrians and cyclists, including: shopping, leisure, housing, transport facilities and heritage.

John Laing is preferred partner for Cambridge Forum John Laing has been selected as the Preferred Partner by Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (CUH) to deliver the Forum development on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus (CBC).

The Forum, which will be designed by global architecture practice NBBJ, will bring together under one roof a post-graduate medical education centre, a 75-bed private hospital, a 200-room hotel and a 550-seat conference centre.

The funding for the £120m infrastructure project will be arranged entirely by John Laing and no public capital will be used to fund the project. In the first major project of its kind in the National Health Service (NHS), CUH and John Laing will form a Joint Venture to develop the new building. Commercial Close for the Forum is anticipated for summer 2013 with construction work planned to start in spring 2014. It is hoped that the Forum will open in summer 2016.

Go ahead for new public space in Leicester Plans for a new £4m public square on the site of an existing car park in the centre of Leicester have been approved by Leicester City Council’s planning committee. The proposals would see the car park replaced by a new civic square complete with lawns, hard landscaped events area and a sculptural boundary with perforated lighting panels.

WHISCERS shortlisted for Ashden Award The WHISCERS process, developed by United House and the Sustainable Energy Academy (SEA), has been shortlisted as a finalist for a coveted 2013 Ashden Award – the UK’s leading sustainable energy award.

WHISCERS, which stands for Whole House in Situ Carbon and Energy Reduction Solution, is a revolutionary process for internal wall insulation which uses laser scanning to measure the dimensions of a room, allowing insulation boards to be cut off-site and installed quickly and efficiently with residents remaining in their homes throughout the process.

The Ashden Awards are internationally acclaimed and reward high calibre, pioneering enterprises in the UK and developing world that share the organisers’ vision of sustainable energy for all. The winners will be announced at a ceremony at the Royal Geographical Society in London on 20th June, marking the end of the Ashden Awards week.

Public Sector Build Journal

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Upfront

Regeneration through partnership Helen Evans, the Chief Executive of leading developer and regenerator Network Housing Group, discusses how partnerships are the way forward for affordable housing, as Network kicks off a long-awaited ÂŁ520m Alperton regeneration project.

T

his is a tough time for any provider of affordable homes. Land prices, particularly in the South East, have remained high, government funding is drying up, the planning system is in a state of limbo as the Government attempts reform and the need for affordable housing has not been higher since the post war years. To push through the current crisis in affordable home delivery, Housing Associations, councils and developers alike must be creative in their approach and open to forging new partnerships.

Network Housing Group’s new flagship scheme in Alperton is a unique example of how a close working partnership between the public and the private sector has kickstarted an important affordable housing project which had been languishing for many years.

8

Public Sector Build Journal

The original Vision for Alperton was outlined in 2007, when Brent Council recognised the capacity for regeneration in this neglected part of West London and the opportunity to use the regeneration vehicle to deliver a significant number of new homes.

Vacant land Alperton is currently an area of contrasts, with open suburban residential streets surrounding densely developed industrial estates, with buildings ranging from large scale industrial sheds to mixed use flat developments, office blocks and traditional suburban terraces. Open spaces in and around Alperton are either of poor quality currently, or are not easily accessible.

There are currently approximately 100 hectares of vacant industrial land in the

New streets, public spaces and new footbridges will improve connectivity

Upfront

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borough – over 20 years’ supply – which is ripe for redevelopment. This land was protected for industrial use by planning policy but this has now changed and the land can be considered for higher value, mixed use development, while new business space will be provided that can be properly integrated with existing and new homes with a proportion at affordable rents.

The 10-year strategic plan seeks to transform this industrial area into a new residential neighbourhood, with 1600 new homes, new social infrastructure such as a primary school and health centre, new shopping facilities and more open spaces for recreation, including capitalising on its location alongside the Grand Union Canal.

The council’s main aim is to promote Alperton as an attractive place to live, work and study and encourage growth and investment into the local economy. However, the recession hit soon after plans were unveiled and the major land owner went into administration. The Greater London Authority became involved in 2010, seeking to help renovate Middlesex House, which is on the masterplan site and had become a hub for social problems in the area. Together with Brent Council and the Homes and Communities Agency, Network transformed this office block into Peppermint Heights, a striking landmark building which has

When Alperton’s transformation is complete in 2017, pedestrians and cyclists will be able to move freely and easily through the area

The council’s main aim is to promote Alperton as an attractive place to live, work and study

Public Sector Build Journal

9

Upfront

Peppermint Heights is a striking landmark building which has become the focal point of a new thriving community

devising a multi-million pound regeneration project. Their shared vision focused on excellent design, affordability and lifestyle sustainability, making the most of natural assets like the canal. Having already demonstrated its expertise in this area on a number of partnership projects in the borough, including Peppermint Heights, Network was then able to acquire the site with Brent Council’s strategic planning support.

Helen says: “We could see the huge potential of the area, with its location so

Commercial space on the ground floor is occupied by Brent Play

10 Public Sector Build Journal

close to London, the canal setting and the sheer volume of land which was ripe for redevelopment. We knew we had the opportunity to create an exciting and vibrant new community and help deliver a significant number of the new private and affordable homes needed in Brent.”

Shared vision Network announced a joint venture partnership with Hill, a top 20 housebuilder, to build the first phase. 243 Ealing Road comprises 441 mixed tenure apartments

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become the focal point of a new thriving community, with quality residential accommodation used to house Brent’s homeless families. Commercial space on the ground floor is occupied by Brent Play, providing respite and structured play for children with severe learning difficulties.

Despite the success of this first development, there were 24 months of further delays and failed attempts to get the project off the ground by the existing owners, before Network Housing Group were brought on board to work with Brent in

Together with Brent Council and the Homes and Communities Agency, Network developed Peppermint Heights

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Upfront

There are currently approximately 100 hectares of vacant industrial land in the borough which is ripe for redevelopment

Future growth The continued support from the Greater London Authority and the Mayor of London has enabled more affordable homes to be delivered in the first phase of the Ealing Road development. Network Living, Network Housing Group’s commercial arm, will deliver 76 affordable homes for working Londoners locked out of the housing market with £3.2m support from the Mayor’s Housing Covenant.

12 Public Sector Build Journal

A range of flexible housing options will be provided depending on people’s needs allowing them to rent, save for a deposit and buy.

Councillor George Crane, Lead Member of Regeneration and Major Projects at Brent Council explained how they are remaining focused on new developments despite continued tough economic circumstances.

“This year has been an exciting one for Brent with a number of major projects delivering on the ground, in spite of the wider economic situation. Brent Council is committed to working with our partners to bring forward high quality new development in our growth areas and the proposals for Alperton fully exemplify this.”

When Alperton’s transformation is complete in 2017, pedestrians and cyclists will be able to move freely and easily through the area. The creation of sections of new streets, public spaces and new footbridges will improve connectivity across the growth area, Ealing Road and the canal. Both new and existing residents will be able to access the waterside and use straight forward connections to local amenities, shops and public transport connections. The emphasis will be on ease of movement through an attractive and safe public place.

By working together with the Mayor of London, Hill and Brent Council, work is now well underway to transform this part of London into a thriving new community.

Without the ability of the partners to compromise and work creatively together, this project would have remained on the shelf, like so many others across the UK.

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in seven 9-14 storey contemporary glass towers and 13,330ft2 of commercial space, with a gross development value of £110m.

The joint venture partnership between Network Housing Group and Hill allows both parties to share the risks and the profits.

This model incentivises lower construction costs for the benefit of both partners and maximises the profit available to be reinvested in affordable homes.

Network Housing Group will manage the 54 shared ownership and 57 affordable rent properties for local residents on the development. Hill will be responsible for the construction of the site, with the sale of 330 private residential properties being carried out jointly between Hill and Network Housing Group.

Hill Chief Executive Andy Hill was drawn to the capacity for wider regeneration in Alperton and potential to create a great place to live so close to central London.

“Vision for Alperton is one of the largest residential regeneration projects in the South East and this first phase is going to set the tone for the transformation of the entire area,” he says.

Fact File Local Authority: Brent Council Housing Association: Network Housing Group Developer: Hill Architect: BPTW Structural Engineer: Brand Leonard Agent: EC Harris

Helen Evans, Chief Executive of leading developer and regenerator Network Housing Group

www.networkhg.org.uk

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Healthcare

Tap into infection control As the healthcare industry continues to combat Healthcare Associated Infections (HCAIs) PSBJ looks at the benefits of Antimicrobial Copper taps and the recent recommendations made by the HPA.

O

ne major concern for the healthcare industry is Healthcare Associated Infections (HCAIs) it is reported that there are still around 4 million HCAIs per year in facilities across Europe. Whilst healthcare workers strive to implement strict infection control measures, such as frequent surface disinfection and hand-washing, there is still a need to further assist these facilities with additional products and measures to help prevent HCAIs. Manufacturers the world over have been tuning into the benefits of copper since it was noted in ancient texts that it has health benefits for humans, from copper containers used to ensure potability of drinking water to copper compounds used to treat skin diseases and open wounds.

More pertinently, in 1983 a hospital study in Pennsylvania showed copper’s effectiveness in lowering the Escherichia Coli count on brass door knobs.

Furthermore, a clinical trial carried out at Selly Oak Hospital in Birmingham found that surfaces made from copper or copper alloys kill potentially harmful micro-organisms thereby significantly reducing the number of these organisms that come into contact with patients, visitors and staff.

14 Public Sector Build Journal

The trial was conducted on frequentlytouched surfaces such as taps, door pushplates, grab handles, toilet seats, overbed tables and dressings trolleys. The copper items were swabbed twice a day, along with similar items made from conventional materials such as plastic, or chrome plate finish. The results found that the items made from copper had 90 to 100% fewer microorganisms on them suggesting that the risk of picking up an infection from these objects that are used on a regular basis, is reduced.

Plus, more recent trials conducted at healthcare establishments in the US have also concluded that the use of copper in objects or surfaces, particularly those that are closest to the patient, can have a dramatic effect in the reduction of HCAIs.

Helpful material Just six key touch surfaces were replaced in ICU rooms in three hospitals, and preliminary results – presented at the World Health Organization’s International Conference of Prevention and Infection Control by trial leader Dr Mike Schmidt – show this achieved a greater than 40% reduction in the risk of patients acquiring an infection.

According to experts 80% of infectious

Copper or copper alloys kill potentially harmful micro-organisms

It is reported that there are still around 4 million HCAIs per year in facilities across Europe

As the healthcare industry strives to prevent the transfer of infectious bacteria, it is imperative that manufacturers develop new products to help combat the issues facing the industry

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Healthcare

diseases are transferred by touch, and the most frequently touched surfaces, including taps, can be contaminated with anywhere from several hundred to over ten thousand infectious bacteria.

It is these staggering facts and the ground breaking research that has prompted UK manufacturers, such as plumbing systems expert Pegler Yorkshire, to use its technical know-how to develop products that boast the antimicrobial effects of copper and that can easily be incorporated into the daily routines of our healthcare and public sector professionals.

To ensure specifiers can easily identify these products they incorporate the Cu+ mark. Developed by the International Copper Association as an industry stewardship scheme for the term ‘Antimicrobial Copper’, it signifies the products are capable of continuously killing micro-organisms that cause HCAIs, even in between cleans.

Antimicrobial Copper is by its nature inherently antimicrobial even when surfaces are scratched, the antimicrobial efficacy is not compromised and therefore it has a continuous ability to kill bacteria. A perfect barrier for products, such as taps or door handles, in public areas that are constantly used by many people.

Reducing risk In such public areas it is not only the outlet that works to combat HCAIs but other controls within the system too. High temperature hot water is used in healthcare as a means to kill Legionella bacteria.

According to experts 80% of infectious diseases are transferred by touch

Public Sector Build Journal 15

Healthcare

A safe pre-set temperature can be selected for basin taps, bath taps or shower outlets, therefore reducing the risk of accidental scalding

accidental scalding.

Additional to touch surfaces and controls within the water supply system, a recent report by the HPA has highlighted the internal workings of taps as an area of improvement to assist in the control of HCAIs. An investigation by the HPA found that as water is not sterile within a plumbing system, water borne microorganisms are capable of forming a biofilm which is known to be more resistant to disinfectants than floating water borne microorganisms.

To reduce the possibility of water borne microorganisms forming biofilms which harbour opportunistic pathogens that can become responsible for hospital infections, a key recommendation made by the HPA is to remove the rosette or flow straightener from within the tap outlet itself which was an area identified in the report that could cause a build-up of these biofilms.

In the mix

A new mixer tap designed by Pegler Yorkshire now includes an inbuilt flow straightener

16 Public Sector Build Journal

The majority of taps include a flow straightener which controls the flow of the water into a manageable and comfortable stream. With the recommendations made by the HPA report manufacturers have looked at the design of their taps to provide a safe and manageable flow of water without using a flow straightener.

A new mixer tap designed by Pegler Yorkshire now includes an inbuilt flow straightener negating the need for an additional component within the tap outlet.

The engineering behind it focuses on the

internal profile which funnels the water into the basin and reduces the risk of splashing, which is further supported by controlled water flow that is regulated to 4 litres/min.

The mixer taps also benefit from a reduced angled spout which ensures there is no stagnant water left in the spout.

By manufacturing this new tap design using copper with its antimicrobial properties will help to address the needs of public and in particular healthcare buildings where the reduction of HCAIs is of paramount importance.

Infection control As the healthcare industry strives to prevent the transfer of infectious bacteria, and with taps being one area of a hospital that is continuously used, it is imperative that manufacturers develop new products to help combat the issues facing the industry.

The results of research conducted by specialists across the world have shown that the antimicrobial benefits of copper far outweigh any other product on the market. Antimicrobial Copper surfaces are the most effective touch surface, ideal for the healthcare environment where their inherent, continuous ability to kill bacteria will supplement infection control measures.

These measures addressed by the design, engineering and material of taps have the potential to reduce care costs and improve bed availability and patient outcomes.

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Thermostatic mixing valves are a requirement under Health Technical Memoranda, and work ‘behind the scenes’ by keeping the temperature of hot water at a recommended 41°C, for public areas, and ensure the water supply is delivered at a safe temperature at point of use. A safe pre-set temperature can be selected for basin taps, bath taps or shower outlets, therefore reducing the risk of

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Talking Point

Spending on public space projects by councils and developers across the UK is estimated to have halved from £1.2bn a year in 2010/11

Modern funding landscape Chris Gourlay, Founder and CEO of Spacehive -- the UK's first crowdfunding site helping communities transform their local public spaces -- talks to PSBJ about the emergence of funding and proactive online engagement.

A

decade ago, crowdfunding was on nobody’s radar. As the global economy boomed and credit flowed, entrepreneurs needed to look no further than banks while councils invested in regeneration projects. Necessity being the mother of invention, it wasn’t until public – and private – money ran out that entrepreneurial types were forced to begin

thinking outside of the box in their search for funding.

Indeed, it is councils and local community projects that have borne the brunt of central government cuts. Spending on public space projects by councils and developers across the UK – from green spaces and high street improvements to sports facilities – is estimated to have halved from £1.2bn a year in 2010/11 according to Freedom of Information data and British Property Federation figures.

So, against this backdrop of austerity, crowdfunding – where potentially thousands of funders share the cost of projects online – has emerged as a serious source of capital.

Modern methods

In Edinburgh, Spacehive transformed a red phone box into a micro-gallery to showcase local art

18 Public Sector Build Journal

Building on the digital-boom that has transformed everything from the way we communicate to the way we consume information, crowdfunding is emerging as the next wave in the tech revolution.

Pioneered in the USA by Kickstarter, it allows creative folk to share the costs of their ventures online. Finally, the power of the web has been harnessed to sidestep traditional investment models and empower ordinary people.

It has proven astoundingly popular, with

Talking Point

£1.2b raised on crowdfunding platforms during 2011.

The unanswered question that remained after the initial emergence of crowdfunding was how could its democratising power revive the public realm – an arena where change is driven by so few, and opaque bureaucracy and the interminable merry-goround of consultations and committees so often excludes outsiders?

This is where civic crowdfunding comes in. It allows individuals, local groups or businesses to put forward original ideas to improve their community and then make these ideas a reality through online cash pledges. The model also gives people the opportunity to make donations in-kind.

So, pledgers can offer their time or useful materials as well as cash.

The reward for these pledgers lies not in direct financial return but in the boost to quality of life, or health of the local economy brought about by improved civic infrastructure across the country.

In March 2012, Spacehive.com became the UK’s first crowdfunding site designed specifically for public space and the built environment.

The system is simple – regeneration projects are ‘products’ that can be collectively ‘bought’ online by local people, businesses and government. If they meet their funding target, they are built and if they don’t, no one loses their money. No harm, no foul, as the saying goes.

Since launching, Spacehive has been used to fund various projects from a £792k community centre in North Wales to a £37k town centre wide WiFi zone designed to drive up foot traffic in Mansfield. One enterprising Edinburgh local even convinced his parish council to buy the red phone box at the end of his street and used Spacehive to transform it into a ‘micro-gallery’ to

showcase local art.

Even local councils have recognised the model’s potential both as an alternative stream of revenue and as a direct line of communication with their oft-forgotten and increasingly disengaged constituents.

To date 14 councils across the country have used the platform to co-fund popular local projects, as well as launching funding campaigns of their own.

Powerful platform Perhaps the kookiest example of a councilbacked civic crowdfunding project can be found in Frome, Somerset, home of cider and Roman coinage. Here, the council joined celebrity supporter Kevin McCloud, of Grand Designs fame, and contributed £2900 to an innovative project to transform an abandoned public toilet into a community café and gallery.

In leafy High Wycombe, the council pledged £5000 to transform an empty high street shop into a hub for young entrepreneurs, and across the UK other councils have begun investing in public space via crowdfunding, recognising its popularity with locals as well as its power as a funding platform.

Civic crowdfunding provides a springboard for great ideas that might be stifled by the traditional planning process, while dramatically boosting the financial and social impact of traditional funders of community development. For every pound given to a city-farm, outdoor kitchen or new playground, the platform pulls in dozens more from the ‘crowd’.

The philanthropic value of good public space is obvious but this is also underpinned by a clear business case. By using crowdfunding to transform your community, you can bolster the local economy.

Crowdfunding offers entrepreneurial

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To date 14 councils across the country have used the platform to co-fund popular local projects

locals a new stream of ‘top-up’ funding that, alongside existing council and grant funding, can help bolster projects which inject a new vitality into communities. These projects can then help transform town centres into more attractive destinations for locals, tourists and investors.

You might question whether transforming an old public toilet into a micro-gallery is really a solution to the decaying high street.

What’s clear though is that crowdfunding can help battle the “clone-Britain” trend by reintroducing a degree of character and charm that is sorely missing in the UK’s public space today.

Civic crowdfunding empowers communities to make their high streets dynamic, attractive and exciting places that people want to visit – packed full of distictive cafes, shops and markets, and generously served by free WiFi. When high streets allow their personality to shine, they can steal a competitive edge over the convenience of Amazon.

Indeed, research indicates that investment in a good quality public realm can drive up footfall and can boost commercial trade by as much as 40%.

It’s time to look beyond developers for cash and project ideas. There is a wealth of funding and creativity out there that civic crowdfunding allows us to tap into.

Chris Gourlay is the founder and CEO of Spacehive, an award-winning online crowd-funding platform for civic projects. He is a former Sunday Times journalist who led the paper’s reporting on architecture and planning, as well as London. Frustrated by the dearth of investment and creativity in our public spaces, he left the paper to launch Spacehive as a funding vehicle for community-led projects

www.spacehive.com

Public Sector Build Journal 19

Lighting

Dual light functions In a hospital environment, the minimum light level required on the bed for medical observation is 300 lux and often this means that separate lighting units are required for medical use and patient reading and comfort. Dual functionality is becoming an increasing priority -- one that Wandsworth Group was successfully able to address.

W

hen Norfolk & Norwich Hospital needed to find a new lighting solution for 26 additional beds they were able to find a solution with a reading light that offered 300 lux on the bed, enabling a single light to double as a reading and observation light and saving the hospital the cost of a separate observation light unit (around £400), plus the additional energy, installation and maintenance costs.

The hospital turned to Wandsworth Group, a healthcare technology specialist that was already supplying its IPiN nursecall system at the hospital, to advise on its lighting requirements and Wandsworth suggested ‘The Wave’.

John Evans, Regional Sales Manager from Wandsworth explains: “The original fittings at the hospital have three T8 lamps but the light output they offer is significantly lower than that provided by The Wave and they are not dimmable so the patient or staff member can only select from on/off or nightlight setting.

Conversely, The Wave provides both uplighting and downlighting from a single TL5 lamp and is the only CIBSE LG2: 2008 compliant luminaire on the market that combines such a high light output with the lowest level of viewed luminance (luminous intensity). This means that the dimmable unit offers the flexibility for both patients and staff to set the lighting to their own

The replaceable diffusers use carefully placed prisms to maximise directional luminance while eliminating shadowing

requirements and provides an excellent working light for staff while offering a soft, ambient light for patients with much lower energy consumption than the existing units.”

Wandsworth Group integrated The Wave units with the IPiN nursecall handsets, incorporating a dimmable relay to offer full dimming capability from the handset, as per the hospital’s specification. Only the downlighter is operated via the nursecall handset to enable the patient to set their own lighting requirements. The uplighter, meanwhile, is operated by nursing staff and this can be controlled via a dimmable switch at the door or at the bedhead.

Precise placement

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The light output offered by The Wave means that it can light an entire bed with a single 54w lamp (depending on room size) and specifiers can choose between 54w and 80w fixed or dimmable output luminaires for the uplights, with optional DSI or DALI interfacing. The cleverly designed replaceable diffusers use carefully placed prisms to maximise directional luminance while eliminating shadowing offering a minimum average illumination level across the floor of 100 lux.

The installation time and cost benefits are significant. A two-part fitting comprising a base unit and the luminaire housing, The Wave enabled a fast track fitting programme with the base fitted and tested to the three pin connectors in a single first fix visit, followed by quick and simple fitment of the pre-wired luminaire at second fix. Going forward, the fixing-free housing, sealed surfaces and smooth lines of The Wave will eliminate dust traps and make it easy to clean, helping to deliver the hospital’s infection control regime.

The light output offered by The Wave means that it can light an entire bed with a single 54w lamp

20 Public Sector Build Journal

www.wandsworthgroup.com

Lighting the UK since 1977 Urbis Schréder has been providing high quality lighting solutions since 1977 and has grown to be one of the UK’s largest suppliers of street lighting and exterior decorative lighting equipment.

High quality and aesthetic design are at the heart of our philosophy; this coupled with unsurpassed technical research into photometry, light testing and new innovation, has lead Urbis Schréder to develop the most cost effective, energy efficient exterior LED and HID lighting innovations on the market today.

To find out more about Urbis visit our website

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Flooring & Surfaces

What lies beneath Accessing services when they pass across roofs or podiums poses many issues both for designers and maintenance teams.

Traditionally, services have been laid either above the surface or, where the areas are utilised for pedestrian or vehicle traffic, beneath concrete, paving or other substrates. Neither option is ideal. Here Mike Wilderink of Buzon UK, a specialist in rasied floor pedestals, outlines an alternative.

W

hen services are laid on the surface, they obstruct, making the area unusable. Burying pipes, cables and ducts generally results in expense and disruption when things go wrong as the substrate has to be ‘dug up’.

The installation of a raised floor system overcomes all these issues. Raised floors generally utilise pedestals supporting concrete, granite or ceramic paviours or timber decks so services are easily accommodated underneath. When access is required for maintenance or repair, it is simply a matter of taking up a paviour or two from the floor so work can be carried out below. The sections are then dropped back into place with minimal disruption. Similarly,

22 Public Sector Build Journal

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Raised floors can utilise pedestals to support timber decks so services are easily accommodated underneath

can be maintained to ensure effective water runoff. Slope correctors, which allow for adjustment to compensate for the roof pitch or, for locally uneven sub-bases, are available to ensure the pedestals still remain fully in contact with the substrate. As with other services, any drainage gratings will still be accessible for maintenance and cleaning.

Pedestals used in raised floor systems should be capable of providing durability, stability and strength to support loads of more than 1000kg and some manufacturers’ ranges allow height adjustment from 17 to 1030mm.

From a construction perspective, the use of raised access floors considerably lightens the structural load on the building when compared with a solid concrete deck construction. Raised floor systems can be built directly over single ply roofs without adding significantly to the structural loading of the roof or the building. They may also be placed directly on top of a warm roof without damage to the waterproof membrane or insulation layer. This has the added benefit that the weight of the deck that the pedestals support holds the insulation material in place without the need for further ballast.

These advantages translate into higher values for properties as areas that would previously not have been available for use can be utilised; for example, through the ability to create useable roof and balcony spaces. With this in mind, raised floor systems are being used on prestigious architectural projects to deliver outstanding functionality and cost performance.

www.buzonuk.com

any paviours that become dirty or damaged can easily be swapped out. Indeed, the whole surface can be changed if required.

All these attributes save time as well as the inconvenience, costs and safety risks associated with excavating the substrate to locate and rectify service-related problems.

They also allow additional services to be installed while leaks in roofs or podiums are easily traced as the waterproof membrane is far more visible.

Access all areas Importantly, although the surface of the raised flooring is perfectly level, excellent drainage is provided as the gradient of the roof or podium on which the floor stands

Raised floor systems are being used on prestigious architectural projects to deliver outstanding functionality

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“It is vital that our hospital remains welcoming and comfortable for our visitors whilst also remaining safe and secure. We chose to specify Polysafe Modena PUR due to its high aesthetic appeal but also for its sustainable slip resistant properties and full HSE compliance. Modena does not look like a traditional safety floor but we were assured by the product’s status as a Polysafe range. Being a very busy facility with lots of footfall, we need to ensure that our floor will stand up to a lot of traffic, provide underfoot safety whilst also being easy to clean”.

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Paints, Coatings & Finishes

The tangible benefits of antimicrobials

Antimicrobial additives have long been used as a means of improving hygiene. The marketing of these products has always been complicated as the benefits are largely unseen. It's therefore common for such products to form a part of initial specifications, only to be dropped during the inevitable cost-down process.

There are, however, areas in which antimicrobials can provide very noticeable and significant benefits.

E

xtending the maintenance cycles of disruptive or labour intensive processes, such as the painting of hospital wards or food processing facilities, provides a calculable return. Selecting a robust paint with excellent antimicrobial properties will reduce the frequency with which re-painting is necessary. Since the paint itself is such a small proportion of the overall application cost, particularly when considering the implications of temporary ward closures or production delays, the additional cost of selecting an antimicrobial paint with high abrasion and chemical resistance is easily recouped many times over.

Perhaps the most visual example of investing in a class leading product in order to reduce lifetime costs is bathroom sealants. Compromising on quality for just a few pounds per tube makes little sense if the sealant will deteriorate within months.

Preventing unsightly discolouration due to mould and bacteria affords an obvious cosmetic advantage but the real benefit of

24 Public Sector Build Journal

choosing the right product is again the reduction of unnecessary maintenance.

Avoiding the need for a single re-application of the sealant would potentially recover the additional cost for an entire project.

Failure of a substandard sealant leading to leakages and subsequent water damage makes the choice even more straightforward.

Identifying the appropriate additive for a given application is an essential part of the support provided by the supplier and is an important consideration when choosing an antimicrobial partner.

It is not uncommon for antimicrobial specialists to champion a single antimicrobial technology to the exclusion of others. Regrettably, there is no ‘universal’ antimicrobial, although some products are often presented as an antimicrobial panacea through impressive, yet inaccurate, marketing hyperbole.

For certain applications the most appropriate actives are based on organic biocides which typically have excellent

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Resilient, antimicrobial paints will extend maintenance cycles and reduce cross-infection in hygiene critical environments

anti-mould properties, whereas for others, such as paint and floor coatings, it makes more sense to utilise an additive based on ionic silver.

The difficulty with which organisms are able to resist ionic silver makes it a useful tool in areas where resistance to organic biocides may be a problem. Bacteria in floor cracks are repeatedly exposed to sub-lethal doses of cleaning chemicals, encouraging the development of resistance. Ordinarily, cleaning chemicals are rotated on a regular basis in order to mitigate the problem, but studies in the US have demonstrated that incorporating a silver additive into the flooring material ensures that even those bacteria which develop resistance to the cleaning chemicals will be killed by the antimicrobial silver.

That said, there are significant variations from one silver additive to the next. The most effective ionic silver additive for water based paints would cause discolouration if used in certain polymers, whereas the additive which is most suited to transparent polycarbonate would swiftly turn to a grey slurry in a water based paint. An additional, yet essential, consideration is one of legislative compliance, particularly with regard to the European Biocidal Product Regulations which dictates the product types in which each biocide may be used.

Antimicrobial additives can provide tangible benefits to manufacturers, applicators and end users, but the first step is choosing the right partner company. 

enq 012

tech@steritouch.com 8 www.steritouch.com

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Rust-Oleum Anti-Germ paint provides excellent protection against bacteria such as MRSA and E. coli

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Paints, Coatings & Finishes

A prism idea was transferred onto the five separate blocks which make up the school, all connected through the central hub

A range of Glidden Trade coatings has been used on the refurbishment and extension of Heritage Community School in Clowne, Derbyshire.

The paints were selected for the project as they deliver a costeffective solution, without compromising on a professional finish.

T

he building of the school was lead

by Equitix for Derbyshire County Council and was delivered by main contractor, G F Tomlinson, Derby, and was designed by maber architects, Nottingham.

A key objective for the project was

to produce an inspiring and stimulating environment for the students, but also comply with budget restrictions. Swirlforce, the main painting contractor, therefore used a range of Glidden Trade paints in order to create a high quality finish without breaking the bank.

When selecting the finishing products, it was crucial to choose a paint system appropriate to the use of the areas and the project design detail. Glidden Trade Vinyl Matt, which gives excellent coverage and minimises surface imperfections, was the ideal choice for the classroom walls and main hub area, and Glidden Trade Satin Finish, which provides exceptional durability and an easy clean surface, was used in the toilet areas.

Excellent coverage

A key objective for the project was to produce an inspiring and stimulating environment for the students

26 Public Sector Build Journal

Jason Smith, Contracts Manager at Swirlforce, explained: “We decided to use Glidden Trade products because we know from experience that they provide great coverage and will offer value for money for the project, without compromising

Glidden Trade Vinyl Matt was the ideal choice for the classroom walls and main hub area

on quality.”

With the main focus of the school being mathematics and computing, it was decided that the interior design should reflect a geometric style. As such, a prism idea was transferred onto the five separate blocks which make up the school, all connected through the central hub.

Each building has its own colour; yellow, green, purple, orange or blue, with the main hub marrying all five colours together.

The wide range of colours offered by Glidden Trade, gave the flexibility to develop a vibrant decorative scheme in each zone.

Gary Boydell, Associate at Maber Architects, concludes: “The overall vision for the Heritage Community School was to create a strong sense of unity throughout the separate teaching blocks, and the nature of the busy school meant that this also demanded a durable yet stimulating design. The Glidden Trade coatings selected were able to assist in fulfilling this brief and delivering a cost-effective solution, whilst also delivering a professional finish.”

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Glidden Trade outperforms at school

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With its easy-to-navigate format, users can benefit from a variety of useful tools, such as the magazine’s latest issue, digital archive, suppliers and newsbank. The App is also synced with SBP Library (www.sustainable-buildingproducts.com) providing an essential specification portal. | Bespoke, reader-friendly features tailored to professionals on the move | | Timely industry news delivered at the touch of a button | | Manage print & digital subscriptions | Public Sector Build Journal 27

Housing

The value of facades Harper Road is a seven-storey development that is part of the regeneration of the Elephant and Castle area of Southwark in South London

The demand for increasing levels of thermal performance is driven by both the market and regulatory pressures and can be answered by innovations in Structural Framing Systems (SFS) technology, writes Paul Lewis, Technical Sales Manager for Knauf Facades.

T

he advantages of SFS methods of construction in terms of speed and efficiency on site are well-established; but the latest contemporary systems are taking this even further with advances that offer far greater levels of insulation without sacrificing usable space. ‘Through the wall’ building facade systems – such as Knauf ThermaFrame – incorporate insulation within the frame itself and can provide a range of U-values from 0.32 to 0.15W/m2K depending on the materials and thicknesses used.

In conventional systems, insulation is applied externally and so adds to the thickness of the walls, decreasing the amount of usable space within. ‘Through the wall’ SFS avoids this problem through placing the insulation in the frame

28 Public Sector Build Journal

itself so that it is sandwiched between gypsum-based sheathing boards and the internal plasterboard lining.

Greater thermal performance Clever thermal stud designs reduce thermal transfer through the steel by offsetting rows of slots which effectively interrupt the conduction of heat through the metal, creating a far longer path for the heat to travel that results in far greater thermal efficiency.

To allow for different thermal, acoustic and structural requirements, the steel framework and the insulation is supplied in three different thicknesses – 100mm, 145mm and 195mm. Even greater thermal performance is possible using and additional layer of earthwool on the inside of the building.

Sandwiched between two layers of liner, the interior insulation is available in 45mm, 70mm and 95mm thicknesses and can boost U-values up to 0.15 W/m2K. The benefits of the system are not simply in terms of thermal performance – health and safety is improved because it reduces the amount of time operatives have to work outside at height. Once the sheathing boards are attached to the steel frame the building is weathertight and the insulation is fitted from the inside – there is no need to crane up the insulation as there would be in other systems. Using a proprietary ‘Through the wall’ SFS also means there is a single source of supply, a full system design and on site assessment, complete with a system warranty.

Any number of different architectural finishes can also be accommodated. A ventilation channel, fixed on top of the gypsum sheathing board, allows for 25mm and 50mm ventilation cavities to be created for residential applications. From there the finishing possibilities are endless. In the case

Housing

The Harper Road development comprises 72 units - 67 flats in six staircores and five three-storey townhouses

to the innovative ‘through the wall’ building facade system designed and supplied by Knauf Facades.

Beyond target Harper Road, a seven-storey development that is part of the regeneration of the Elephant and Castle area of Southwark in South London, has a U-value of 0.15W/ m2K and so goes a long way to meeting

Once the sheathing boards are attached to the steel frame the building is weathertight

the 2016 Government target for new-build of the ‘zero carbon home’. The system can also accommodate wind-loadings of more than 1.0kN/m2 and carry the 75Kg/m2 deadload of the terracotta rainscreen.

But, most importantly for Richard Horobin, Operations Director for the subcontractor Drytech Facades, the design achieves this excellent thermal performance without complicating the installation.

“The architect was looking for a very low U-value which traditionally we would have achieved with a standard metal framing and then built up the insulation on the outside of the studs,” he says.

“The beauty of the Knauf system is that it meets the U-value required without the need for any additional external insulation, which can sometimes interfere with the support work required for the finishes or cause condensation.”

“Another big plus is that it provides a 90 minute fire resistance that would otherwise mean we would have had to install dense products such as mineral wool insulation or cement particle board.”

The Harper Road development comprises 72 units – 67 flats in six staircores and five three-storey townhouses. Family Mosaic, the developer, is a provider of shared ownership properties, affordable housing, properties available through part buy part rent and New Build HomeBuy to more than 45,000 people in communities across London and Essex.

t

of render, a carrier exterior cement board is fixed to the ventilation channel as a base for direct render application. Tiles, bricks, glass, timber and metal rain-screening are also easy to achieve, with the cladding material fixed or tied to the facade with suitable fixings secured directly back into the Stud.

The latest development by Family Mosaic Housing Association anticipates future standards of thermal performance thanks

The advantages of SFS methods of construction in terms of speed and efficiency on site are well-established

Public Sector Build Journal 29

Housing

Using a proprietary ‘Through the wall’ SFS also means there is a single source of supply, a full system design and on site assessment, complete with a system warranty

Drytech Facades invited Knauf Facades to put forward alternative designs to the original SFS design because an alternative solution using structural insulated panels had already been considered but had been rejected because of its higher overall build cost. The first indicative specification employed: 195mm Knauf ThermaFrame Stud, with a 95mm internal Z bar together with Knauf ThermaFrame insulation, Knauf Windliner (Gypsum Sheathing Board) and 2 x Knauf Frameliner VC taped and jointed internally (split between the internal Z bar).

Lightweight application

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Once the main contractors, Lovell Partnerships, had approved the indicative design, Knauf Facades then worked with the project architect and engineers over eight weeks to produce detailed drawings for the six blocks that would gain their approval.

Knauf Facades ThermaFrame infill system was chosen over alternative SIPS and traditional SFS systems because it could meet all performance specifications for structural, thermal, fire and acoustic levels and remain competitively priced. It is lightweight, flexible in design, and can accommodate a number of differing external finishes without compromising its core performance levels.

www.knauf-facades.co.uk

30 Public Sector Build Journal

Knauf Facades ThermaFrame infill system was chosen over alternative SIPS and traditional SFS systems because it could meet all performance specifications and remain competitively priced

Leisure

Simply Play aims to offer an accessible assessment process, built from the foundations of play theory and guidance on play space design

Assessing play spaces Play is critical for children within the ‘here and now’ and also as part of their development into healthy adult beings

Simply Play is a freely-available assessment tool, created to enable anyone to appraise a given space then identify how the play value could be enhanced. The tool is grounded in well-established Play Theory, distilling the essence of decades of research and study into an easy to follow 45-question survey. Here Beth Cooper talks about the development of the tool supported by Timberplay, why it was necessary and her aspirations.

32 Public Sector Build Journal

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here is currently widespread concern about children’s access to good quality play opportunities so it stands to reason that if we are to provide playable spaces to support children’s play that we make them as high quality and effective as possible; that they support play in the best way possible. To do this you first have to really think about play and the space itself. Simply Play aims to offer an accessible assessment process, built from the foundations of play theory and guidance on play space design, which goes beyond counting benches and returns to the primary purpose of play space provision, that of providing play value.’

A current mode of thinking amongst

academics, policy makers and designers alike is that there is more to designing space than just the physical. Good quality shared space is increasingly recognised as having positive impact on wellbeing and health of both individuals and communities. These principles are also to be found in spaces which are designated for play. Well-designed play spaces often have the capacity to inspire playful being, and the opportunities offered by natural playable spaces such as the beach or the woodland inspire creative and fantastical action that go beyond human social behaviour in the street scape.

Critical to development Play contributes to the quality of life of all people. In the child it is a means of both expressing oneself and exploring the world, a process, a mechanism for development.

Play expands the mind and stretches the body, it tests our social boundaries and raises the spirit. There is growing concern that children are now accessing far less free play than previously and that this may have a negative impact on many aspects of a child’s life. Play is critical for children within the ‘here and now’ and also as part of their development into healthy adult beings.

Bob Hughes, a well-regarded figure within the play community, speaks of compensatory spaces, play spaces which provide the modern child with those lost wild play experiences that their ancestors would have had. It stands to reason then, that in times of reduced freedoms for children and concerns about the amount of free play they have access to compared to their equivalents 50 years ago, that we need to provide compensatory spaces and that these need to be as effective and high in play value as possible.

Simply Play has been developed with the

Leisure

In the child, play is a means of both expressing oneself and exploring the world

the same time; we live at the boundary of the personal and shared worlds.”

Mental process The Integral Play Framework helps us look at play from this holistic perspective and so the criteria within the tool assess opportunities for physical play, but also for team play, cultural play and creative or imaginative play to name a few. By building the development of Simply Play upon this approach, the evaluation helps to scaffold understanding of

how play moves beyond the purely physical aspects and considers the feelings and impact of play on social, spiritual and mental processes and conversely how those impact on play itself.

Simply Play can support the development of these highly effective spaces via an intuitive evaluation process. Just by undertaking the assessment, discussion about play space evaluation and play beyond the physical and visually obvious begins; it is the start of dialogue and discussion about play in a deeper context, which is ultimately the only way we are going to provide our children and our communities with the playable spaces and renewed freedom which they require. By framing the accepted criteria for enriched play spaces, which have been promoted through documents such as Best Play (2000) and more recently the Design for Play document (2008), Simply Play will give you an overview of where and how the play space is successful, and where and how the investment of time resources or funding would have greatest impact.

In these times of reduced capital and revenue spend in many public services, play is not always the top of the list. By applying Simply Play to any given space the chances of ensuring maximum return on any spend are improved; this will benefit both the playing child and the wider community.

Play is a complex area of study but Simply Play seeks to explore the subject in a very simple manner. It puts play back at the heart of assessment and, whether used in isolation of alongside other evaluation tools, it can help to deliver high quality play experiences, high play potential and a deeper understanding of play.

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support of play experts at Sheffield Hallam University in particular the supervision of Professor Perry Else whose Integral Play Framework is a keystone of the thinking behind the assessment. The Integral Play Framework developed by Else considers both the internal and external world of the playing child as well as considering the individual at play and the collective.

Professor Else states that: “Like all humans, the playing child has an experience of the world that is both emotional and physical at

Good quality shared space is increasingly recognised as having positive impact on wellbeing

www.simplyplay.org.uk

Public Sector Build Journal 33

Street Furniture

Appropriate material choices Concrete street furniture will meet the demands of any landscape and will suit most budgetary requirements

Correct material specification is essential for ensuring that street furniture can withstand the rigors of everyday urban use. Marshalls Street Furniture expert Marco Maccio discusses how choosing the right material can prolong the life of street furniture and reduce the need for expensive repair or replacement.

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If selected and maintained correctly, stainless steel will remain attractive over its required life cycle

34 Public Sector Build Journal

t is now widely accepted that quality public realm space in our towns and cities has a positive impact on the wellbeing of residents and visitors. Street furniture is an essential element creating safe, useable and attractive spaces; seats and benches encourage social interaction, bins deter unsightly litter, cycle stands reduce traffic and encourage physical activity, planters provide habitats and help to green our streets and bollards provide demarcation and protect pedestrians from motorists.

However, the urban realm is a harsh and demanding environment, and street furniture elements can quickly become damaged and tired looking making an area unsightly and necessitating costly repair or replacement.

For this reason it is essential that careful consideration is given to the material specification. Modern materials and production techniques mean that in order to achieve superior robustness you no longer have to compromise on aesthetic appeal.

Ferrocast has become an increasingly popular material choice for a wide range

of street furniture applications because of its looks, strength, high durability, low maintenance, design flexibility and value for money. Whilst capable of exactly replicating the appearance of Cast Iron, Ferrocast offers so much more, with a wide range of benefits over the older material, which is now rarely available from a UK foundry.

Ferrocast is an engineering grade polymer originally developed for use in North Sea Oil applications. These harsh environments were perfect testing grounds to prove that Ferrocast, when cast around a steel core, would be ideal for use as a street furniture material.

Products made from this material have a high chip resistance making them ideal for heavily trafficked areas such as supermarkets and pedestrianised zones.

This high level of durability results in low maintenance costs.

Affordable maintenance This lightweight material will not rust or corrode, a quality which has made it a popular choice at seaside locations where Cast Iron quickly rusts and requires regular costly maintenance, and often full replacement. In many of these cases throughout the UK it has been used to replace these Cast Iron systems. A unique benefit of Ferrocast is that moulds can be created quickly, and cost effectively by taking casts from the degraded Cast Iron products and producing exact replicas in polyurethane.

Concrete street furniture has become an increasingly popular material choice.

Thanks to modern production techniques, it is not only tough but it is now possible

Street Furniture to create stunning street furniture items of varying colour, finish and shapes.

Concrete street furniture will meet the demands of any landscape and will suit most budgetary requirements. It is extremely durable, and will not rust or corrode, and well withstands the rigors of modern environments. Robust and hardwearing it is ideal for urban areas where there will be frequent street cleaning or the threat of deliberate damage. Concrete weathers naturally and therefore requires minimal maintenance.

Responsibly sourced As well as being visually attractive, granite is an extremely strong and scratch resistant material

to be matched to the environment. The two main grades used in Street Furniture products are 316 and 304. Grade 316 is suited to all areas, especially marine locations where high sodium chloride levels in the air can degrade other types of stainless steel. Grade 304 is more suited to urban locations where there is less risk of sodium chlorides contaminating the surface of the steel.

The influence of grade on the performance of stainless steel is fairly well known. However, it is not so well known that surface finish has an equally important role in determining corrosion resistance.

Poor quality polished finishes can lead to

disappointing performance of stainless steel, especially in exterior applications.

If well maintained corrosion is highly unlikely, as a result the metal can be fully recycled at the end of its life. Stainless steel has no down cycling no matter how many times the steel has been recycled.

For those seeking ‘green’ materials to use in their projects, stainless steel should be a definite consideration.

Robust qualities Natural stone, in particular granite, is a popular material choice for street furniture.

As well as being visually attractive, granite is an extremely strong and scratch resistant material. It is also resistant to staining and is impermeable which ensures a product with a long life. Again choose a reputable supplier who has a strict quality control procedure to ensure your product is of the highest quality.

Damage to street furniture is often caused by vandalism, whether it is caused willfully or by skateboarders or BMX bikers, however measures can be put in place to deter and protect. Once a material has been specified, applied coatings and treatments can give further protection. For example, sacrificial polymer coatings are applied to cast stone to allow for chemical cleaners to be used to remove graffiti, without dulling the surface. Anti-skate deterrents can be fitted to benches and furniture with a linear profile that is ‘grindable’ and steel can be polished and aluminium anodised to provide greater damage resistance.

Finally, choose a reputable supplier who has the expertise to assist you in choosing the right material and finish for your application.

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The raw materials for concrete are sourced from within the UK, unlike those for other construction materials which are often imported from thousands of miles away with all the resultant CO2 transportation emissions.

Stainless steel, notably its stunning aesthetic appearance, high corrosion resistance and mechanical properties, make it ideally suited for street furniture, in particular the clean attractive finish suits modern spaces. If selected and maintained correctly this material will remain attractive over its required life cycle.

There are two important elements to consider when selecting stainless steel products; the grade and the finish.

The grade of stainless steel has a major influence on its performance and needs

Ferrocast is an engineering grade polymer originally developed for use in North Sea Oil applications

www.marshalls.co.uk

Public Sector Build Journal 35

Building Access

Systems fit for purpose It is crucial to think about which material will be strongest and offer the best long term solution

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here’s no doubt that when it comes to sourcing doors for a new build development, home or office renovation, timber is often the preferred material. It’s aesthetically pleasing and just as effective as steel when newly installed.

However, when you look at legislation, in particular fire regulations, it may not be the best option longer term.

In terms of requirements for doors there are two key fire regulations to be aware of as a building owner. Firstly, the Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order (RRFSO), and secondly, CE Marking.

Under the RRFSO, building owners must ensure – and be able to demonstrate – that fire safety precautions are not only in place but are continually reviewed and monitored. Responsibilities include a range of requirements such as regular fire assessments, implementing clearly defined evacuation procedures and ensuring adequate signage. A key requirement is ensuring that all fire doors are still fit for purpose and working as originally designed throughout their life.

The CE Mark, although not currently mandatory in the UK, will become a

36 Public Sector Build Journal

compromised. As such the door would not be classed as a fire door.

With steel doorsets, every part of the ‘door set’ – the leaf, frame and any hardware or seals are all supplied and tested together.

The clear advantage of this is that every

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The UK is coming under increasing pressure to ensure their doors meet fire safety needs longer term. With mandatory CE marking soon to be implemented it's more important than ever to understand the risks and responsibilities. David Hindle from Ingersoll Rand looks at the key considerations and how choosing the right material can make a big difference. legal requirement during 2013. Here, manufacturers will have to undertake extensive testing in order to prove compliance with the Construction Products Directive (CPD), and building owners will need to demonstrate that their doors or ‘door sets’ meet the CE Mark requirements.

Therefore it’s important to think carefully about how doors and door sets are sourced.

Source with caution There is the option of purchasing each element from a different manufacturer or supplier, for example the frame, leaf and ironmongery in isolation. However, this option should come with a note of caution.

Although each individual element should have been tested to the same standard and under the same conditions (wall or structure type, testing standard so BS or EN), time length of test, leaf or frame material (timber or steel), leaf or frame thickness, frame stop dimensions and so on, it can be difficult to ascertain this. There’s also a risk that each individual part may not be suitable with another component. If there’s even the slightest issue with this multi-component compatibility then any certification could be

There must be appropriate care taken to realise the longer term fire risks associated with different options

Building Access

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Building Access doors are deliberately designed so that the leading edge is their strongest point, giving them a clear advantage over timber in terms of longevity. Although a steel door will still be affected by user-induced deterioration longer term, it will operate at a maximum performance for a much longer period of time.

Long-term solution A door’s leading edge rests against the ‘rebate’ or frame stop; the raised section of the frame which the door leaf closes against. What is often overlooked is that this part is fundamental in the door’s fire performance in terms of smoke and acoustics, as it’s the ‘barrier’ which closes of the gaps between the leaf and frame.

Timber frame sets are often made-up on site from two or three pieces of timber, whereas a steel frame is a one piece ‘factory’ finished item. Again there is no uniformity around the timber frame set when compared to steel and questions could be asked around the timber frames fire performance and longevity. Given the

rebate’s importance, it’s crucial to think about which material will be strongest and offer the best long term solution.

Crucially, steel and timber behave very differently in a fire. Arguably, for this reason, steel door sets are far more suited to comply with the RRFSO than timber. When a timber door gets hot, it starts to contract as the moisture evaporates, meaning that it needs secondary components, such as intumescent seals to fill the gap its created.

Conversely, because steel expands as it heats up, a steel door will force itself into the frame, thereby creating a tighter seal for both fire and smoke. This also means that there is no requirement for secondary seals, saving initial outlay and continual maintenance costs. As a result this also simplifies an end user’s maintenance requirement where steel is chosen.

Establish protection Ultimately, when you look at the London Underground or large-scale modern office buildings where the containment of fire is paramount, the first choice for fire door sets is always steel. Even if regulation wasn’t part of the equation the fact is that all businesses should be looking to establish full protection against fire, ensuring the safety of their colleagues, any tenants and visitors.

It would seem that some businesses have avoided their responsibilities to employees and others, putting the bottom line before safety. Tested steel doorsets can certainly help to limit this exposure, providing the correct checks are in place.

Often when timber doors have become old and worn, building owners have cut corners to reduce costs. A common activity is to replace an old timber door without replacing the existing door frame. However, unless an exact ‘like for like’ replacement is sourced, ideally from the original manufacturer, and installed in exactly the same way as it was originally, the door would automatically fail fire certification.

At this stage the building owner would be liable to prosecution.

Whichever sector a business belongs to, there must be appropriate care taken to realise the longer term fire risks associated with different options. Doors and door sets are a key part of this responsibility and the onus is on building owners to take action.

Putting anyone in a situation where little or no fire protection is provided cannot be an option.

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element is proven to offer the same level of protection and be compatible. Another advantage of choosing steel doors is their ability to combine certification (known as cross-certification). Here, specifiers can combine additional aspects of thermal, acoustic and security enhancement into the same fire door set to create a tailored and totally fit for purpose product.

Another important consideration is the difference in the inherent properties of timber and steel. Given that wood is a living thing, it cannot be assumed that any two timber doors, although the same size and shape, will be uniform across every part of the door. The opposite is true of steel because it is manufactured from a known and controlled material. So it is therefore much more uniform in terms of its inherent strength and structure and as a result how it would perform in a fire situation.

The role of the so-called ‘leading edge’ of the door is also key. The door’s leading edge is the part which suffers the brunt of daily wear and tear when associated with the opening and closing of a door. Steel

A steel door will force itself into the frame, thereby creating a tighter seal for both fire and smoke

38 Public Sector Build Journal

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Online Enquiry 020 Public Sector Build Journal 39

Education

Kristen McCluskie Photography

The homebase gardens include learning, social areas, passive and active play spaces

Schools within schools When Ryder Architecture was given the opportunity to design a new build school, Denton Community College, the firm's extensive collaboration with teachers, pupils and stakeholders resulted in an exciting and challenging brief.

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s part of the £300m Tameside MBC Building Schools for the Future programme, Denton Community College replaced the predecessor schools, Two Trees Sports College and Egerton Performing Arts College. It accommodates 1350 students aged 11-16 and includes a Key Stage 3 Learning Centre for 28 students.

Ryder consulted with staff from both the predecessor schools, facilitated student workshops and worked closely with a group from the Governing Body. These consultations established the desire for adaptable environments, defined the key relationships between departments and determined how the College and Key Stage 3 Learning Centre would be organised and how this would support community access.

40 Public Sector Build Journal

This engagement process defined four key challenges:

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Schools within schools – the year group ‘Homebase’ concept ‘Dining with Dignity’ – the end of long queues and ‘en masse’ dining Showcasing specialisms – putting the college’s two specialisms of sport and performing arts at the forefront of the new campus The visually restrictive site – countering the poor surrounding external environment

Says Suzanne Blair of Ryder: “Sometimes we challenged their views and sometimes had our ideas challenged in turn. Looking back, a massive positive was involving each

subject in the design of their department.

For example, the Technology, Art and Design department is all open plan. The College were interested in a similar concept we had employed at Mortimer College in South Tyneside, which they had visited.

Despite being a large and busy space, it works really well and has a great buzz about it.”

Reaching homebase Nick Condliffe, Denton’s Headteacher, had been greatly impressed by the outcomes of the homebase system he had seen at the Hellerup School in Copenhagen: “As soon as you walked through the doors at Hellerup, the joy and enthusiasm for learning was evident.”

He and his colleagues were keen to embrace the concept of using more open and flexible spaces to give the pupils a sense of safety, belonging and responsibility for their own learning. Each of the five year groups are based within their own homebase, which in turn are organised into three provinces; Inspire – Years 7 and 8; Aspire – Year 9 and Perform – Years 10 and 11.

Each province has its own servery and dedicated dining space which helps to cut down queues. Each homebase is a self-contained block with a glazed doubleheight space. Each has its own learning

Education Kristen McCluskie Photography

out into the central Oasis forming a back drop to the external performance space.

The multi-purpose sports hall is by the community entrance and faces out across the new sports pitches and multi-use games area. This makes the two specialisms the focal point of the new building, which, with its crisp two-storey masonry and white render facades and large section of glazed curtain walling with the green trespa box projecting through, was designed to create a strong identity for the school.

The performance and sports facilities, as well as other areas like the community cafe, meeting rooms, ICT and LRC that will be accessed by both the school and visitor communities, are easily controlled, either during or out of hours.

At the heart of the design is the Oasis, a large external space; a calm area of protected green at the core of the college

spaces, staff areas, toilets, social space and additional dining area. Students take ownership of their area, whilst teachers retain control through passive supervision.

The design of the homebase also breaks down the scale of the College to a reasonable and unintimidating size, so students are comfortable, relaxed, and ready to learn. The homebases are linked by the learning boulevard, a mix of dining, breakout learning, ICT and an LRC, which enables informal teaching, display and social interaction opportunities. All passively supervised by staff areas which have large glazed screens overlooking the boulevard – something the students say makes them feel safer.

The homebase gardens include learning, social areas, passive and active play spaces; including half size basketball courts, space for ball games, seating areas beneath shady trees and boulevard-like pathways that link to the main entrances of the site. The Year 7 garden also includes elements of natural play.

Nick Condliffe is pleased with the results: “Students are now in the building from 7:30am until 5pm. They have quickly adapted and understand the flexible learning environments, and now take much more responsibility for their own learning. Latest attainment data is showing significant improvements in attainment and

expected progress.”

The College has two specialism subjects brought across from its predecessor schools: performing arts and sport. The performance hall is housed within a bright green box which projects out of the front elevation adjacent to the main entrance and

At the heart of the design is the Oasis, a large external space; a calm area of protected green at the core of the college.

This central garden space incorporates a covered outdoor performance area, lush gardens, a water feature and outdoor specialist learning zones. It provides an ‘Oasis of Calm’ and a positive external environment visible from all areas of the College.

All the key aspects of the school are located around the Oasis, which provides the orientation space for the college.

Explains Nick Condliffe: “We wanted an

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A green heart

Kristen McCluskie Photography

The facilities, to be accessed by both the school and visitor communities, are easily controlled, either during or out of hours

Public Sector Build Journal 41

Education

Kristen McCluskie Photography

Designed to enhance the provision inside the building, the landscape delivers inspired functionality in a natural setting

Oasis at the centre of the college to counter the poor surrounding external environment, but the external space within the Oasis has contributed significantly towards our improving educational standards.”

Another outcome of the consultation process was that the landscape design works with the building to create a strong sense of place and a total learning site, where the whole campus becomes an educational facility and is viewed as such by students, staff and visitors. Designed to enhance the provision inside the building, the landscape delivers inspired functionality in a natural setting. Specialist garden areas,

outdoor learning, seating for different group sizes, growing areas, and display spaces provide a truly attractive external environment.

Nick Condliffe comments: “With a broad mix of active and passive recreational and social spaces, we know the students will take ownership of the landscape and develop it to its full potential.”

The Oasis at the centre of the college was not the only green attribute designed into the new building; Denton achieved BREEAM Very Good.

Says Suzanne Blair of Ryder: “We were always aiming for BREEAM Very Good and

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Kristen McCluskie Photography

used several different methods to achieve it.”

The design has a combined heat and power system (CHP) which allows the college to generate its own electricity and heating, powered by plant oil.

Continues Suzanne: “We were able to site the building a sufficient distance from the boundaries to naturally ventilate the teaching spaces, where appropriate, without traffic noise causing issues with acoustics within the classrooms.”

In addition to using windcatchers in the ventilation strategy, the design also used various energy and water saving measures, such as low flow sanitary fittings, automatic light fittings and a building management system. Over 90% of the materials used in the building, both externally and internally, were ‘A’ rated.

Now that Denton Community College has been operational for two years, Nick Condliffe says the school is still having significant impact: “When we recruit new staff, we see again and again that they are not only “blown away” (their words) by the design but more importantly how the students respond to it. The building is inspirational and has transformed students’ attitudes to school and learning. The message that we are hearing consistently now is that students feel very safe, understand the design, and have ownership of the building. Although some teenagers don’t actually admit it, they really do like their new school and have tremendous pride in it.”

The landscape design works with the building to create a strong sense of place and a total learning site

42 Public Sector Build Journal

www.ryderarchitecture.com

www.inex-online.com The new comprehensive online specification portal for interior and exterior design professionals. in+ex takes visitors on a virtual journey, inspiring the design community with the latest news, on-trend products and high-profile interviews. web | mobile | tablet Online Enquiry 021

Doors, Windows & Balustrades

FastframeUk completes complex new build The Mary Hare School, for the profoundly deaf in Newbury, Berkshire, can now benefit from the provision of their newly-built accommodation block. The main contractor for the build was Sir Robert McAlpine and the company subcontracted installation of the windows and doors to Fastframe Uk. The complexity and demanding nature of the project meant that an experienced and high quality contractor was required. It was Fastframe Uk’s portfolio of successfully completed high profile projects together

with the reassurance of the Deceuninck products the company manufactures that helped to secure the contract in this instance.

The architect had designed the building

to include very high specification windows to ensure maximum safety and energy efficiency. Extended folding openers were required to meet a specific ventilation requirement but also protect the pupils inside. A Tremco EDPM membrane needed to be fitted with the cavity closers to create excellent heat retention. The glass specified was 6.2mm Pilkington Suncool to maximise energy efficiency. Paul Moody at Fastframe Uk says: “PVCu windows offer excellent energy efficiency these days and the specification on these windows shows just how far the technology has come. It was a pleasure to work to such exacting standards.”

Fastframe Uk installed Deceuninck’s 2800 series with a Foiled coating in Anthracite Grey on the outside and white on the inside, matching in with aluminium doors in the same colour. Fastframe Uk’s fitting teams worked alongside other trades at the site to ensure the contract was completed on time, something that meant a great deal of planning and practicality was required.  *

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john.duckworth@deceuninck.co.uk ( 01249 816969

Increased functionality with Comar 9Pi

System10 brings apartments into the 21st century Doors and windows from Halo’s System10 range have upgraded two sixties-built apartment blocks to 21st century standards of insulation and energy efficiency by replacing the original fittings with PVC-U products.

The two blocks – Pelham and Waverley Court in Horsham, Surrey – required a total of 722 windows and doors, all manufactured to fit eight configurations to be found in the estate. The System10 range is based on a range of 62 or 70mm sections. The result is low stock holding potential for the fabricator, low maintenance potential for the client and the ideal range of products to suit any window replacement programme. (

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44 Public Sector Build Journal

Comar 9Pi, High Performance Framing Windows & Doors is a premium system offering low U-values, integration and functionality. As a result of market feedback another range of Ladder Frame profiles has been added to cater for refurbishment projects. Comar 9Pi Ladder Frame is now available in 100mm – this increases Comar 9Pi’s functionality from its standard 78mm and its high span 120mm options.

The Comar 9Pi Ladder Frame option offers fast-track off-site construction for window walling, thermally broken shop-fronts and fully integrates with the new Comar 7Pi CD swing and auto-sliding doors and Comar 9Pi rebated door-sets. *

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Rehau hosts successful Passivhaus seminar More than 25 delegates attended Rehau’s recent Passivhaus design and construction seminar from across North Wales including representatives from local architects, surveyors, councils and health authorities. The seminar allowed delegates to explore some of the more complex aspects of Passivhaus design and to see close up how the features of a product like Rehau’s Geneo self reinforced window and door system make it suitable for Passivhaus specifications. Solar Windows was at the event to demonstrate successful applications of the Geneo technology in the UK. Based on the event’s resounding success, Rehau has a third seminar in London scheduled for September. *

jayne.blackborow@rehau.com

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Doors, Windows & Facades

Facades future-proof housing scheme The latest development by Family Mosaic Housing Association anticipates future standards of thermal performance thanks to the innovative 'through the wall' building facade system designed and supplied by Knauf Facades.

Harper Road, a seven-storey development that is part of the regeneration of the Elephant and Castle area of Southwark in South London, has a U-value of 0.15W/ m2K and so goes a long way to meeting the 2016 Government target for new-build of the ‘zero carbon home’. The system can also accommodate wind-loadings of more than 1.0kN/m2 and carry the 75Kg/m2 deadload of the terracotta rainscreen.

But, most importantly for Richard Horobin, Operations Director for the subcontractor Drytech Facades, the design achieves this excellent thermal performance without complicating the installation.

Drytech Facades invited Knauf Facades to put forward alternative designs to the original SFS design because an alternative solution using structural insulated panels *

kd@web-response.co.uk

had already been considered but had been rejected because of its higher overall build cost. The first indicative specification employed: 195mm Knauf ThermaFrame Stud, with a 95mm internal Z bar together with Knauf ThermaFrame insulation, Knauf Windliner (Gypsum Sheathing Board) and 2 x Knauf Frameliner VC taped and jointed internally (split between the internal Z bar).

Knauf Facades ThermaFrame infill system was chosen over alternative SIPS and traditional SFS systems because it could meet all performance specifications for structural, thermal, fire and acoustic levels and remain competitively priced.

It is lightweight, flexible in design, and can accommodate a number of differing external finishes without compromising its core performance levels.

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Public Sector Build Journal 45

Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Amwell Washrooms big on design, small on cost For those planning a school washroom refurbishment, look no further than Amwell Systems. Amwell has washrooms that students of all ages will love and want to look after and what's more they won't cost the school a fortune.

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Amwell Systems has a wide range of materials available for all its washroom cubicles so whether the children are little angels or put the rough in to rough and tumble there’s a cubicle to suit, all at a cost that fits any budget.

Amwell’s Playtime, Acorn and Axis ranges are available in its economical, high quality melamine faced chipboard (MFC) suitable for all dry areas with reasonable amounts of traffic.

For dry areas with a slightly higher usage high pressure laminate (HPL) is the perfect solution. This option is available for Playtime, Acorn and also Amwell’s Impact range.

If the cubicles need to be water and vandal resistant then solid grade laminate (SGL) is the ideal material. Customers can specify this for Playtime, Acorn and Amwell’s heavy duty, vandal proof Splash system.

An exciting digital print can also be applied to HPL to really make the cubicles stand out! With Amwell’s dinosaurs, ladybirds and flags of the world designs, Amwell’s cubicles are not only strong and reasonably priced, they can be educational too!

New academy boasts inclusivity The new £26m Oasis Academy Oldham features state-of-the art resources and facilities, even personal hygiene, for pupils, staff and the wider community. A key element in the ethos of enabling everyone is the inclusion of a hygiene room, with equipment supplied by disabled toileting solutions company Clos-o-Mat. Strategically located next to the learning support department, the room enables anyone who cannot use a conventional toilet to undertake their personal hygiene needs with the space, and equipment, they require. The large room includes a mobile, height adjustable changing bench, hoist and privacy screen, alongside the standard toilet and washbasin. *

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Maxwood's washrooms get top marks 

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Get in shape with Minimax Washroom systems specialist, Maxwood, is giving primary school washrooms a fun and welcoming feel with Minimax Shape – specially profiled pilasters (uprights) for its Minimax toilet cubicle system in the shapes of boys and girls, which provide an eyecatching design feature and leave children in no doubt that they have come through the right door. Minimax Shape forms part of Maxwood’s unique collection of toilet cubicles, panelling, hand wash units, and washroom accessories for the education sector with attractive and functional ranges for children of primary, secondary and tertiary ages. Full details are shown on Maxwood’s new website at www.maxwoodwashrooms.com *

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46 Public Sector Build Journal

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Colourful, child-friendly washroom cubicles, panels and vanity units manufactured and installed by Maxwood are part of the £5m redevelopment of a primary school in Hampshire. New washrooms for pupils at Barncroft School in Havant were specially designed around an ‘ice cream’ theme to complement the school’s brightly coloured decor, including bespoke screen printed flooring in classrooms. Adult washrooms for the school’s staff and visitors were also provided by Maxwood featuring the same eye-catching shades of pastel blue, green, pink and yellow. ( *

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Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms The first phase of a £300m regeneration of Doncaster's Waterdale is now accessible to all, regardless of ability.

Doncaster Council's new £26m Civic Office is home to about 1600 staff, and includes a modern council chamber, and purpose-built 'one stop shop' where local people can access council services.

Appreciating that we all sometimes need to go to the toilet when away from home, the council has chosen to have a Changing Places accessible toilet, supplied by Closo-Mat, included as part of the ‘one stop shop’ facilities.

Located in the main reception area, the Changing Places toilet is larger than a conventional ‘disabled’ toilet, and has additional equipment including a changing bench, hoist and shower seat. Thus, anyone who needs the help of a carer is able to undertake personal hygiene, with adequate space and appropriate aids, when visiting the Council offices, or the surrounding Cultural Quarter.

Changing places for optimum accessibility Joan Beck, Doncaster Council’s Director of Adults and Communities, comments: “The One Stop Shop consolidates the council’s town centre customer facing services into one facility which means residents can now deal with the enquiries on one visit, to one location. By including a Changing Places facility, everyone wanting to do their council business, or simply visiting our new Civic and Cultural Quarter *

info@clos-o-mat.com

could do so safe in the knowledge that the facilities they may need were readily available.”

Added Robin Tuffley, Marketing Manager at Clos-o-Mat says: “Under BS8300:2009, it is ‘best practice’ to include a Changing Places toilet in any building to which the public have access; under the new Building Regulations Approved Document M, it is also ‘desirable’ that one is incorporated.”

( 0800

374 076



e s u ly la d Ju At ure 1st h h oc nc br lau to

Atlas Smooth

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Lecico’s innovative Atlas Smooth close coupled pan and cistern includes a revolutionary flush system (4 and 2.6 litre), which enables you to save both water and money whilst also helping to protect the environment.

Specification manual available upon request.

Scan for more information

For more information please call

01234 244030 www.lecico.co.uk

Online Enquiry 033

Online Enquiry 034

Public Sector Build Journal 47

Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

Xtratherm's CavityTherm leads in AIMC4 Xtratherm's innovative full fill built-in wall insulation CavityTherm has been installed in Code Level 4 homes as part of the £6.4m AIMC4 project. The project is funded by the Government backed Technology Strategy Board - the UK's innovation agency - and five Consortium partners. The partners are Stewart Milne Group, Crest Nicholson Plc, Barratt Developments Plc, H+H UK Ltd, and the BRE. The Consortium built 17 homes that meet the energy requirements of the Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4. The new homes are a testing ground for investigating how a highly-insulated envelope to Code Level 4 energy requirements can be achieved effectively and economically using a fabric-first approach. The homes vary in design and size, and with different fabric and product solutions.

Housebuilders Crest Nicholson and Barratt Homes each committed to building at least four of these ‘world-class’ energy efficient homes. Crest Nicholson has built *

standards such as the Fabric Energy Efficiency Standard and Zero Carbon, while retaining traditional methods of construction.

“It is a pioneering product with a unique profile facing that avoids thermal bridging, directing any moisture that might have penetrated the external wall down the protecting facing and back onto the external leaf. The high performance composite PIR board includes specifically designed rebated edge detailing on all four edges to allow the systems to tightly interlock when installed.”

five at its Noble Park development in Epsom and CavityTherm is installed in one of those units. Xtratherm also provided high performance insulation for one of the four homes built by Barratt at its Meridian Park development in Corby.

Xtratherm Sales & Marketing Manager Kerry Westlake says: “The AIMC4 Consortium is the driving force for developing and building the best energy efficient homes by utilising a fabric-first approach without the use of renewables.

CavityTherm is the ideal wall insulation solution to meet Code Level 4 and key

gemma.hynes@xtratherm.com

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Maple facade ensures climate control

Greater choice from Safesite Safesite is now able to offer customers a greater choice of edge protection solutions with the introduction of the KeeGuard range of guardrail systems to its portfolio of products. The KeeGuard range includes standard, raked, radiused and folding systems, all designed to provide permanent edge protection for areas where regular access is required, as well as KeeGuard Topfix edge protection for metal profile and standing seam roofs. As with Safesite’s existing System 2000 Guardrail System, the KeeGuard freestanding range is based on a simple cantilever design which provides unrivalled strength and stability and does not require fixing into the roof’s structure. ( *

01293 529977 info@safesite.co.uk

48 Public Sector Build Journal

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A new low carbon building on the University of Nottingham Innovation Park includes a metal mesh facade from Maple Sunscreening to provide both energy-saving solar shading and a distinctive architectural signature. The Energy Technologies Building (ETB) is designed to minimise demands for its own heating, cooling, lighting and ventilation. As part of this requirement, 60m² of the glazed south facing elevation of the ETB’s exhibition hall is clad in woven stainless steel mesh, designed, manufactured and installed by Maple. By filtering strong sunlight, the mesh facade optimises the interior climate, helping to reduce the building’s running costs and its carbon footprint. *

jay@maplesunscreening.co.uk

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0845 384 5000

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High-performance roof handrails SAFETYWORKS & Solutions manufactures a range of free standing, clamp on and fixed handrail systems for rooftops and walkways. Its Easyguard permanent freestanding handrails are suitable for roof perimeters or the designation of access ways and fire escape routes, and are suitable for both retrofit and new build. Easyguard is galvanised to BS/EN 1461, and is also available powder coated, again over galvanised steel, to ensure the longevity of the system and its coating. Easyguard’s base plates are fitted with bonded ribbed rubber mats, which include an EPDM foam infill. The foam infill reduces heat transference to the roof membrane therefore reducing membrane degradation. * info@safetyworksandsolutions.co.uk

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185 x 122 Shorguard.pdf

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H O S P I TA L S



POWER



PUBLIC BUILDINGS



SCHOOLS



SHOPPING CENTRES

SG4 FREESTANDING GUARDRAIL SYSTEM  Unique patented lifting shoe  Safe, secure and cost effective flat roof edge protection Please visit our website or call David Crabb at Whelan Plant:

SG4

Tel: 01959 571788 Fax: 01959 571068 Email: info@shorguard.co.uk www.shorguard.co.uk UNIQUE LIFTING SHOE

SG1

SG2

SG3

SG4

PERMANENT

TEMPORARY

SHORGUARD EDGE PROTECTION SYSTEMS Online Enquiry 039

LEVATO MONO, a next generation paver system Pavers comprised of a 20mm single layer of loadbearing porcelain stoneware, with incredible technical and aesthetic features. Self-levelling and height adjustable pedestals allow for rapid installation over uneven sub-surfaces and any waterproof membrane.

Just a few of the benefits: • • • • • • • • •

Ideal for roof terraces & balconies ‘Floating’ floor - installation over single ply membranes High load bearing - static load up to 1 tonne per paver Eternal product - massive over life savings Zero maintenance Slip resistance: BS pendulum test up to +65 wet Timber & stone effect - 11 finishes available Completely non-pourous Lightweight - 45kg per sqm

The Deck Tile Co. Ltd PO BOX 3576, Wokingham, RG40 9GR W: www.thedecktileco.co.uk • E: info@thedecktileco.co.uk • T: 0845 2700 696

Online Enquiry 040

Online Enquiry 041

Public Sector Build Journal 49 55

Floors, Walls & Ceilings characteristics. Its excellent surface strength will tolerate foot traffic with minimal damage whilst waiting to receive the floor covering.

Short time frame? Level IT super30 is the original ‘level and lay in a day’ product that sets to walk on in as little as 30 minutes whilst enabling impervious floorcoverings to be laid after just 3 hours. It is perfect for use in areas where it is necessary to carry out an installation within a tight time frame.

Need a flawless finish? Level IT SmoothFlow has been developed to give the smoothest possible finish. It gives no grin, so is perfect for vinyl, rubber and linoleum installations.

Looking for versatility? Level IT three is Ultra Floor’s innovative multi-component bag & bottle system consisting of a polymer modified cementitious powder which can be used with either Super Dry liquid or Super Bond liquid depending on sub-floor requirements. When mixed with Super Dry, it is suitable for use over existing traditional latex smoothing compounds where higher strength products can often be too strong for the substrate.

Ultra Floor's got it covered Ultra Floor's smoothing and levelling compounds offer a range of solutions for the modern contractor looking to achieve a high performance installation every time.

Looking for a leveller that builds depth?

Try Level IT one HDB, the rapid hardening water mix smoothing compound – the original leveller designed to build depths of up to 50mm.

Need a rapid drying industrial wear surface? Level IT HD Top is designed as

a finished floor surface and can be used between 5 and 15mm. It is ideal for heavy duty trafficking and has excellent abrasion resistance.

Want superior flow? Level IT two has been called the “easiest latex” to apply and offers superior flow and handling

 *

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ultrafloor@instarmac.co.uk ( 01827 871871

BREEAM Excellent student accommodation

Smart wall bays keep business fresh ElecoPrecast has installed its unique rocket wall bays at The Port of Grangemouth – owned by Forth Ports – to ensure the storage of high quality, high performance fish feed in its warehouse. ElecoPrecast’s patented rocket wall units allow for the storage of a greater amount of material in the same floor space and can be installed rapidly to form storage bunkers and bays.

The unit’s unique, inverted ‘Y’ profile prevents the lodging of stored material – this is particularly important when storing animal feed compounds that might otherwise go off, attract rodents, mould and other infestations which would spoil any freshly stored product. (

 enq 043 01476 539617 * peter.bowes@eleco.com

50 Public Sector Build Journal

3000m of Ancon brick support angle and over 800 Ancon windposts have been supplied to the construction of new student accommodation at the University of Liverpool’s Chatham Street campus. The project comprises an East and West block of six and nine storeys respectively and has been designed, by Stride Treglown, to be BREEAM Excellent. The concrete frame with traditional brick cladding provides the buildings with thermal mass, which will moderate temperature fluctuations and minimise heating and cooling costs during occupancy. Construction of the attractive facade involved the support of masonry at every floor level by an Ancon stainless steel support system. *

info@ancon.co.uk

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Protection for walls and doors under attack The new improved FalmouthEx from Yeoman Shield, manufacturer of wall and door protection is ideal for effectively ‘reducing’ unsightly scratches and abrasions which inevitably occur in buildings such as schools, hospitals, cafeterias – anywhere that has to tackle the damage caused by everyday footfall and movement of trolleys and equipment. FalmouthEx can be supplied to match existing Yeoman Shield Rail and Corner Angles.

The finish is also available in Yeoman Shield door and wall door protection panels; door edge; frame and architrave; Premier Protection Rail and Handrail and as inserts for a selected range of Yeoman Protection/Handrails. *

sallyann@yeomanshield.com

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Transform your old floor with a simple, roll on, permanent covering Choose from a range of finishes that work on their own or in combination.

PU Anti Slip Coating No more slips or falls PU Sealer The permanent floor coating and protector PU Design Roll on a new floor in any RAL colour

For more information please call 01296 437827 Dr. Schutz UK Ltd. Unit 24, Anglo Business Park, Smeaton Close, Aylesbury, Bucks HP19 8UP Fax: 01296 334219 info@dr-schutz.com www.dr-schutz.com

PU Anti Colour Protects against stains and chemicals Suitable for most types of hard flooring, vinyl, rubber, lino and resin floors

Online Enquiry 046

Decking

Year-round protection The perfect anti-slip finish for added safety > Will not crack, peel or blister > Protects against mould, algae and fungal decay > Water and weather resistant

Call or visit the web for stockists.

+44 (0)1296 481 220

www.osmouk.com Online Enquiry 047

Online Enquiry 048

Public Sector Build Journal 51 55

HVAC

PaySmart debt free energy billing Historically, many landlords and Housing Associations who manage housing schemes with communal heating have been required to maintain a debt fund to cover any shortfall in energy payments. This is used in circumstances where residents fail to pay for the energy they have consumed and often leads to an increase in the tariff rate for all residents of the scheme to cover the debt fund.

Evinox can eliminate the requirement for a debt fund by providing a system where residents pay for energy in advance, which keeps the tariff rate down due to less administration and less debt management service being required.

The PaySmart debt free metering solution enables residents to be in control of their own energy bills by paying for energy in advance and therefore removing any burden of building up unpaid bills or debt.

This system also takes away the collection of money by the Managing Agent or Housing Association and provides residents with flexibility and choice over how they pay for their heating and hot water.

Unlike traditional pre-payment systems, the process of adding energy credit to the PaySmart system is automated so there is no requirement for the resident to insert

NIBE keeps homes healthy Domestic heating manufacturer NIBE has launched a set of brand new heat recovery ventilation units, designed to provide a comfortable, healthy environment in well-insulated new build homes. The NIBE 250 and 400 heat recovery units use a unique air circulation system to provide a vital supply of fresh, clean air to meet air quality requirements in new build homes – all without compromising enhanced heat loss protection levels. Working to 96% efficiency, the units also use an advanced heat exchange process to ensure that incoming air from outside is kept at a consistently comfortable, stable temperature. (

 enq 050 0845 095 1200 * info@nibe.co.uk

52 Public Sector Build Journal

a card for activation.

Residents can purchase their energy using through a number of convenient payment methods: at a local Payzone outlet; by monthly direct debit or standing order; online using the residents website 24hrs a day; and over the telephone.

Included as standard, Evinox’s heat interface units feature electronic energy control valves to enable the PaySmart system to automatically reduce or disconnect the supply of heating and hot water when there is insufficient credit.

These not only modulate to adjust the energy flow through the unit to match the heating/DHW demands, but also act as the energy shut-off valve.  *

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info@evinox.co.uk ( 01372 722277

New intelligent heat recovery with Vireo Greenwood Airvac, a leading manufacturer of ventilation solutions, announces the launch of Vireo – the next generation of intelligent Heat Recovery Ventilation. Designed and manufactured in the UK, Vireo is all about GIP and the latest Greenwood CommissionSMART technology makes on-site set-up and commissioning quick and easy as a unique commissioning wizard means Vireo can be set-up in accordance with Building Regulations in just eight steps. Loaded with additional Greenwood Apps, Vireo continues to assist in the delivery of Guaranteed Installed Performance beyond the installation stage and throughout the lifetime of the product, making it particularly suitable for social housing. *

info@greenwood.co.uk

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Atag looks for growth in Scotland ATAG Heating, the UK subsidiary of ATAG Verwarming of Holland, one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of super high efficiency, low emission boilers, has appointed McCallum Water Heating of Glasgow as its Sales Agent for Scotland. ATAG believes that McCallum is ideally placed to further develop ATAG’s market penetration North of the Border.

“Scotland is a key market where we foresee significant growth for ATAG products,” says Phil Bell, Managing Director, ATAG Heating UK. “McCallum’s reputation speaks for itself and we are looking forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship.” *

info@atagheating.co.uk

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HVAC

A fresh solution from SE Controls

Birmingham City Council's award-winning office development at Woodcock Street is using an advanced natural ventilation solution from SE Controls to create a comfortable environment for staff and visitors, while enhancing the building's sustainability credentials by reducing energy consumption.

Designed by Associated Architects, the £38m five-storey building provides a flexible working environment for around 3000 employees and forms part of the local authority’s plans to rationalise its office portfolio and generate more than £200m

of savings by reducing its occupancy of leased buildings.

A key focus of the building’s design was the use of a wide range of sustainable technologies to minimise energy consumption and reduce its carbon

Safe hot water with Fluid Category 5 protection

 *

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sales@secontrols.com ( 01543 443060

The Mistrale natural ventilation system is a complete solution with installation options including window, wall, low level floor, under floor or even over ceiling and a full matching range of rooftop louvres.

Applications requiring safe hot water with the highest backflow prevention – particularly a hose adjacent to a toilet or bidet

Key Features

| Break Tank with type AB air gap | Water Heater | Thermostatic Mixing Valve (TMV3, DO8)

Mistrale 100

U Value: As low as 0.96 Watt/m2/K Leakage: As low as 5m3 per hour per sq/m Weather Rating: Up to Class A (BS EN 13030)

| Booster Pump

Optional extra: Ablution hose and trigger assy. (CSHT-1)

Tel 01442 823 123 www.arrowvalves.co.uk The Water Regulations Solution Specialist

Online Enquiry 054

Air Distribution and Natural Ventilation solutions

Mistrale 50

For further information on the Ablution Plant visit our website

Mistrale 75

This flexibility makes Mistrale the ideal partner for your next natural ventilation project.

Consists of:

Model BTHW

footprint. In addition to rainwater harvesting, a ‘brown roof’ wildlife habitat and photovoltaic panels, SE Controls’ natural ventilation solution also played an essential role in helping achieve the energy reduction targets.

SE Controls supplied, installed and commissioned the extensive natural ventilation system, which involved 562 TGCO chain and tandem type actuators together with 101 OS2 type 22 controllers to ensure the precise operation of automatically opening windows and vents within the workspace and four atria, which are managed by the building’s integrated BMS. The natural ventilation system’s operation is also enhanced by the construction methods used with the building. Using steel framed construction and steel floor beams with 200mm thick hollow cellular core concrete floor planks, the design optimises the building’s thermal mass to enable the temperature to be managed without additional external cooling. The natural ventilation system is also used to ‘night purge’ the building, allowing cooler air to enter and cool the hollow beams.

GILBERTS (BLACKPOOL) LTD Tel: (01253) 766911 sales@gilbertsblackpool.com

www.gilbertsblackpool.com

Online Enquiry 055

Public Sector Build Journal 53 55

Focus & Innovation

Flush with savings through recycling An innovative approach to achieving optimum value for money in its service provision is yielding dividend at Aberdeenshire Council. The Authority has partnered with leading disabled toileting solutions provider Clos-o-Mat to deliver a holistic solution, to enable its elderly and disabled people stay in their own homes and avoid the need for a carer to help them with personal hygiene.

Under the agreement, Clos-o-Mat provides regular maintenance and servicing of all of the Council’s Clos-o-Mat Palma Vita ‘wash and dry’ (automatic) toilets. Innovatively, Aberdeenshire has further taken advantage of Clos-o-Mat’s recycling package: as and when a Palma Vita is no longer needed at a particular home, Clos-o-Mat removes it, replaces it with a conventional WC, refurbishes the unit and then installs it wherever the Council next requires, be it as a solus item or with bespoke accessories according to individual requirements.

“The recycling element is delivering cost savings of up to 60% on each Clos-o-Mat,” explains Aberdeenshire Council’s Alan Watt.

“That saving/unit enables us to redeploy those funds to deliver more help to more people than otherwise would be possible.

Our clients are happy too – we have only had one issue where a client refused a

Knauf AMF Ceilings transform primary school classrooms Knauf AMF has helped transform a primary school reception classroom and a reading room into calm learning environments where both pupils and teachers are benefiting. Once Knauf AMF Thermatex Alpha ceiling tiles and Sonic Sky Rafts were installed at St John’s Church of England Combined School, Princes Risborough, staff noticed big improvements straight away, not just with the noise levels but with the behaviour of the children too. Thermatex Alpha ceiling tiles provide high sound absorption and the perforations of the core board create a Class A sound absorber. Thermatex Alpha also has a strong white surface creating a smooth and elegant finished look. (

 enq 057 020 8892 3216 * sales@amfceilings.co.uk

54 Public Sector Build Journal

recycled unit; most appreciate the difference the unit will make to their lives, and that we are doing our utmost to make the most of available funds. We are convinced Clos-oMat also offers the best after sales service and repair package.”

Robin Tuffley, Clos-o-Mat Marketing Manager, adds: “The Better Outcomes Lower Costs report maintains there is no cost differential between purchase of a unit such as an automatic toilet/Clos-o-Mat against that of organising a carer to visit daily to assist with toileting. Aberdeenshire Council is just one local authority appreciating that, and benefitting from our being the only company in this sector with the ability to deliver in-house commissioning, servicing and repair.”  *

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info@clos-o-mat.com ( 0800 374 076

Portakabin launches new CPD programme Portakabin, the modular building specialist, has launched a new CPD programme to help architects, contractors, engineers, facilities managers and other building professionals in both public and private sectors improve their understanding of modular construction. Among other key points, the CPD session includes: an overview of the modular sector and some of the preconceptions of the approach; design features and advantages of modular and off-site solutions; system components and properties, such as insulation; roofing, wall and floor construction; fire, thermal and acoustic properties; pre-installed high performance floor options; how a modular building is manufactured; and how to select a modular supplier. *

information@portakabin.co.uk

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Borri supports the heart of Portsmouth Portsmouth City Council has unveiled its new data centre facility, which will serve almost every resident and visitor to the city. Playing an integral part in the data centre was the principal contractor, Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) specialist, Borri. In addition to providing complete project management, Borri also supplied and commissioned two B9000FXS 160kVA/144kW UPS systems, which have been positioned in a 2N configuration to deliver complete redundancy at all times. With a 2N electrical design throughout, the new data centre currently hosts 33 racks and for added protection, localised rackmount static switches have been installed for all legacy equipment. *

info@borri.co.uk

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Focus & Innovation

PCflex provided for police station refurb As part of a joint refurbishment of Boston Police Station between G4S and Lincolnshire Police, Wernick Buildings manufactured and delivered a modular extension, housing four of its specialised PCflex police custody cell units.

The PCflex units, which are a patented, secure steel frame system, were manufactured, delivered and installed at Boston Police Station in under just six weeks. These modular custody suites consist of a selected number of double cell units which have a section of corridor between each pair giving a 60% saving on purchase when compared to traditional construction methods.

Andy King, Managing Director of Wernick Buildings states: “Our offsite construction process means the units are manufactured in a controlled factory environment. PCflex modular installations take far less time to complete compared to traditionally build programmes. Also, while the manufacture of the cells is taking place the site location can be prepared simultaneously.”

The new cells were required after an inspection in 2011 of Lincolnshire Police’s custody provision identified improvements, which were required to comply with the

national Safer Detention Standards. All facilities and associated staff were relocated to Spalding Police Station during the Boston refurbishment and extension.

Chief Constable Neil Rhodes and Police and Crime Commissioner Alan Hardwick opened the newly-refurbished custody suite at Boston Police Station in Lincolnshire.

Neil Rhodes comments: “The whole project was completed on budget and one week ahead of schedule. We were very impressed with the Wernick buildings team, especially Ian Mellor who was totally professional throughout.”

PCflex is available in a number of configurations and is fully compliant with all building regulations. If required the system can also be provided to be counter terrorism measure (CTM) compliant.  *

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enquiries@wernick.co.uk ( 0800 18 1822

Off-site approach helps to increase theatre capacity Off-site construction specialist, Yorkon, has helped to increase theatre capacity at Addenbrooke’s Hospital.Working closely with main contractor ISG Jackson and project architects, LSI Architects, Yorkon delivered a new modular theatre block to help meet the major trauma requirements for the region. This complex part two-storey building is located on a raised steel platform to connect it to the third level of the existing theatre department, and has been built with the potential to be extended by an additional floor. The double cantilever arrangement facilitates patient flows and access to the department’s support facilities. *

info@yorkon.com

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Technal launches new visualisation tool Technal has launched the only visualisation tool currently available in the UK for architects and specifiers to produce 2D and 3D drawings and 3D renders for architectural aluminium facade designs.

TechSketch has been developed following consultation with leading architects to enable building designers to sketch out initial concepts and ideas quickly and easily, incorporating Technal’s GEODE-MX curtain walling, MODAL low rise glazing, brise soleil sunshading, sloped glazing, and window and door infills. This is an easy-to-use software package for building designers to create and visualise a true-scale facade in Technal’s products, improving accuracy and saving time. To view a demonstration, see www.techsketch-by-technal.com *

info@technal.co.uk

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01924 232323

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Tremco performs for award-winning Exeter car park The recent 2013 British Parking Awards saw contractor Matrix, and Exeter City Council claim ‘Overall Winner’ using Tremco’s MMA car park system. The winning project was the Council’s John Lewis Car Park which also won the award for ‘Best Refurbishment’ project.

The detailed contract made full use of Tremco’s MMA Rapid Cure Flexible Waterproofing System, together with Tremco CP470 soffit coating. The MMA Rapid Cure Flexible Waterproofing System was used to treat both the roof deck and then, with the addition of crushed basalt aggregate, it provided a running surface on all of the vehicle ramps. ( *

 enq 063 01942 251400 dianne.watts@tremco-illbruck.com

Public Sector Build Journal 55

Focus & Innovation

Surbiton Health Centre punctuated with colour Can a GP practice in a health centre stand out from the crowd?

BHC Furniture knows it can. In October 2012, the company was approached to put forward proposals to furnish the new Surbiton Health Centre, combing four GP practices all under one roof. The Health Centre was to combine four GP practices under one roof.

Four practices requiring four different ideas.

From the start the brief was that Surbiton Health Centre had to look and feel like no other Health Centres, right down to the furniture product, design and layout.

With its preferred manufacturing partner, Senator International, BHC put together a

presentation, based on previous experience and knowledge in contemporary product innovation, with a view to create a blue print for the future of the Health Centre.

Peter Bright, Managing Director of BHC Furniture says: “When looking at a project of this nature we have to take into

consideration the practicality of the furniture with the needs of the particular patients you are working with. In this instance, the elderly, children, pregnant mothers and disabled patients.”

BHC was chosen as the successful partner for the Surbiton Health Centre project and proceeded to work with the relevant parties involved in the project, Essentia, Riley Consultants and representatives of the four GP practices.

The focus was the use of four prime colours to split the open plan interior space into quarters. The colours were predominately used for feature walls, columns and signage. BHC selected furniture to follow suit using slate grey to tie in the different areas punctured with the key prime colours for the seats and vinyls.

This has created a striking effect which has received extremely positive feedback.

Delivery and installation was condensed into one week of March, using BHC’s experienced roll out and installation programme. Surbiton Health Centre is one of the most progressive Health Centre’ designed by BHC.  *

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sales@bhcfurniture.co.uk ( 0207 264 1945

Wood coatings experts join Remmers UK

Cemeteries to benefit from Polywood partnership DMMP, the UK importer of PolyWood non-wood outdoor furniture, has appointed Cemetery Development Services to act as its representative to the UK cemetery market. DMMP Managing Director Marcus Palmer: “Benches for mourners and visitors are very important, but it’s also vital that they are always in good condition and rarely out of action due to maintenance. PolyWood is ideal for this as, being made from recycled plastic with stainless steel fittings, it doesn’t rot, fade, flake, rust, wobble or need re-painting.”

The PolyWood Cemetery Benches will be exhibited at the National Funeral Exhibition on 7-9th June 2013 at Stoneleigh Park. (

 enq 065 0845 643 9776 * info@dmmp.co.uk

56 Public Sector Build Journal

Remmers UK, leading wood coatings specialists, is pleased to welcome Dave Christie to its Wood Coatings team as a Technical Sales Manager to partner his fellow Technical Sales Manager Brian Priestley. With over 40 years of experience between them in the UK timber industry, both Brian and Dave have worked with a number of major companies and are equipped with the specialist knowledge of wood treatments and coatings.

Their aim is to greatly expand the future growth of Remmers’ timber section and win competitive tenders with Joinery Manufacturers, Clients, Consultants and Specifiers, in today’s challenging marketplace. *

sales@remmers.co.uk

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0845 373 0103

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Promat increases fire protection options Promat UK has launched a new range of superior quality, high performance steel doorsets which can provide up to 240 minutes of fire protection. The Promat DURASMOOTH doorsets can be produced in many different variations, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, including office, industrial and commercial premises, food and drink processing facilities, plus power generation, petrochemical and pharmaceutical plants.

Durable and impact-resistant, the factory-engineered Promat DURASMOOTH doors have a high strength-to-weight ratio.

They are resistant to corrosion, rotting and warping, and give the highest levels of fire protection without the need for an intumescent component to be added. *

salesuk@promat.co.uk

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Focus & Innovation

Deceuninck's high rise credentials Deceuninck fabricator, Dempsey Dyer, has just completed a large refurbishment contract with Pennine Housing 2000. The contract involved replacing 867 windows in three high rise tower blocks in Mixenden, West Yorkshire. The windows in each of the blocks needed to be replaced as part of a larger renovation and refurbishment project.

The project presented several difficulties, meaning it was only suitable for the most experienced of contractors. Perhaps the greatest of these difficulties was the sheer scale of the project: replacing 867 windows in three high rise buildings on budget and on schedule requires considerable skill and expertise. Dempsey Dyer, coincidentally based just down the road from Mixenden in Pontefract, had all the credentials the project demanded and duly tendered for it.

The contractor, Wates Group, had originally specified aluminium windows.

John Duckworth, Commercial Manager at Deceuninck demonstrated the company’s Zendow 3000 system with the unique Decoroc finish in RAL 7016 anthracite grey.

It quickly became clear that not only would PVC-U windows with a Decoroc finish do the job aesthetically, they would also offer thermal efficiency benefits and bring a cost saving on the aluminium alternative.

The size of the project meant a great

deal of pre-planning was required. Firstly, the location of the flats in an extremely exposed valley meant that Dempsey Dyer needed detailed wind pressure calculations and strength tests to demonstrate the windows would be fit for purpose and have longevity.

Access equipment such as scaffolding was also organised well ahead of schedule in order to negotiate cost savings that could be passed on to Wates and Pennine Housing 2000.

When it came to installation, it took three installation teams just 12 weeks to install all the tilt and turn windows.

The Dempsey Dyer team is justifiably proud of the finished result. Martyn Wright, Dempsey Dyer’s Commercial Sales Manager says: “We work hard to ensure that every job runs smoothly and this was no exception. But successfully completing a job of this scale on time and on budget is always something to celebrate.”

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martynw@dempseydyer.co.uk ( 01977 649641

Helifix in tune with conversion requirements To meet strict Building Regulations governing its change of use from a former carpet warehouse to a modern city academy, the Grade II listed ‘Piano Building’ in Kidderminster required 1500 linear metres of stainless steel HeliBar from Helifix to reinforce and secure brick panels on all elevations. The contract was won by Eden Group of Birmingham, an Approved Installer of Helifix’s proven repair and reinforcement systems. Eden channelled-out every other mortar joint before bonding 7m long x 8mm diameter Helifix HeliBars into the cut slots with HeliBond cementitious grout. The HeliBars were overlapped by 500mm to ensure continuous reinforcement within the brick panels. *

kerry.osmond@helifix.co.uk

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020 8735 5200

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Increased demand prompts new website Foremans Relocatable Building Systems, the UK supplier of pre-owned Portakabin buildings, has launched a new website, www.foremansbuildings. co.uk, to meet the rising demand for second hand modular buildings. Mike Williams, Managing Director of Foremans, says: “Our aim with the new site is to showcase the best applications of our buildings from across the UK to provide visitors with a really useful source of information to help the procurement process – from the specification of layouts, colours and finishes, to finance options, and the full range of planning, design and refurbishment services that we can provide.” *

info@foremansbuildings.co.uk

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01964 544344

KNX UK unveils award winners At the KNX UK Association’s AGM 2013, the Annual Award winners were announced. KNX Champion was Stephen Payne of Theben who received the accolade for his dedicated and total commitment to the promotion of KNX technology. Stephen also received, on behalf of Theben, the Award for the Best New KNX Product. Winner of the KNX Installation of the Year was systems integrator Entech Limited for the new ITV offices at Salford Quays. Also at the AGM, new Board members were appointed – Simon Allen, Bespoke Automation; Richard Sagar, Sagar Smart Homes; John Preston, Philips Lighting; Paul Russell, Schneider Electric; Andy Davis, Siemens. (

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 enq 071 0845 869 5908 * admin@knxuk.org

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Focus & Innovation

Durapipe cures pipework needs at hospital Bristol’s Southmead Hospital is undergoing expansive redevelopment to offer an 800 bed state-of-the-art acute hospital. M&M Medical was tasked with sourcing a pipework system that would work with the vacuum system being installed in the operating theatres within the hospital. Durapipe PVC-U pipework in 160mm has been specified for the vacuum system ring main, linking the vacuum plant to the eight 2000 litre vacuum receivers. Henry Hicks, Project Manager at M&M Medical comments: “We were keen to use Durapipe PVC-U for this application. Although metal alternatives have been used traditionally, we knew that plastic would be quicker and easier to install.”

Urbis Schréder settles in new UK premises In April 2013 the Urbis team moved into their brand new premises in Chineham, Basingstoke, continuing the company’s 25 year presence in the area. The new premises are owned outright by Urbis and will provide UK customers with the opportunity to: visit the new showroom to view Urbis’ range of functional, decorative and architectural lighting solutions in action; improve their lighting knowledge by using the new training facilities, which will primarily be used to deliver Urbis’ seminars; and learn about the work undertaken in Urbis’ new Research and Development facility. (

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01543 279909

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Postura+ chairs add a splash of colour KI has supplied Postura+ chairs for Highfields & Penn Fields School in Wolverhampton. The client required a robust and cost-effective stackable seating solution for its students’ chairs. The single piece moulding ensures that there are no fixings to loosen over time.

What’s more, the chair is lightweight which makes for ease of stacking. Manufactured in the UK, KI’s Postura+ range is available in seven sizes and a variety of colours. The chair is ergonomically designed to promote good posture and provide exceptional comfort.

 enq 072 01256 354446 * sales@urbis-schreder.com

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sales@kieurope.com

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01908 317766

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Foremans helps to meet demand for school places Foremans Relocatable Building Systems, supplier of preowned Portakabin buildings, has supplied two interim teaching buildings to primary schools in the London Borough of Newham, just eight weeks from receipt of order. North Beckton Primary and Colegrave School each had a need for two self-contained temporary classrooms while redevelopment works are carried out to meet the rising demand for school places.Commenting on the project, Manjit Rai, Head Teacher at North Beckton Primary, says: “The rooms are large, warm, comfortable and rather lovely! Everyone is happy with their accommodation and we would recommend the approach to other schools with similar needs.” *

info@foremansbuildings.co.uk

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01964 544344

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Coppa Gutta a perfect fit for Yeoman Rainguard Yeoman Rainguard, provider of quality rainwater systems, has joined forces with Coppa Gutta, manufacturer of Copper, Zinc and Stainless Steel Systems. Yeoman Rainguard Director, Phil Christopher, says: “We pride ourselves on the quality of our products and are delighted to be working with Coppa Gutta whose products are a perfect fit with Rainguard and complement our Aluminum, GRP and Cast Iron Rainwater systems.” Alan Gingell, Managing Director of Coppa Gutta, agrees: “As a British company with 25 years of experience manufacturing metal rainwater systems we are proud that Yeoman Rainguard has chosen to partner with us to offer an unrivaled product range and customer service.” *

sallyann@rainguard.co.uk

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Portakabin achieves top rating for financial stability Portakabin, a leading modular building manufacturer, has achieved the highest possible rating from Dun & Bradstreet, the world’s leading source of business information. This award puts Portakabin in the top 15% of all companies in the UK and Ireland for financial stability. The ‘rating 1’ status, which Portakabin has achieved for another year, indicates that the business is low risk and maintains its high creditworthiness. In addition to its financial stability, Portakabin also offers unrivalled commitments to customer service. Over the past 10 years, it has delivered an unprecedented 99.7% of buildings on time and on budget. (

 enq 077 0845 401 0010 information@portakabin.co.uk

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Get qualified and get recognised!

There are many personal and professional benefits of being a member of a professional body.

As well as holding a prestigious qualification, membership is an assurance of quality and a demonstration of your professional achievement that sets you apart from the crowd. Being a member means that you can attend a range of networking and CPD events, keep up to date with the latest developments in the industry and have access to professional opportunities and qualification.

In joining the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists provides you with the opportunity to qualify as a Chartered Architectural Technologist, MCIAT or a professionally qualified Architectural Technician, TCIAT; recognised building professionals of the highest standard and regarded as one of the best within the industry CIAT is a progressive, enthusiastic and proactive Institute and its members are at the forefront of Architectural Technology.

To consider your options please visit www.ciat.org.uk

For further information about joining CIAT, please visit www.ciat.org.uk or alternatively email membership@ciat.org.uk.

To gain a further insight into the qualifying processes and the type of work our members undertake, visit our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/ciatechnologist.

If you have any queries about membership or routes to attaining Technician (TCIAT) or Chartered (MCIAT) membership, please do not hesitate to get in touch - membership@ciat.org.uk.

Online Enquiry 078

Building homes for the future?

Better build in Sky±HD

Talk to Sky about the digital entertainment buyers want Whoever your new builds are aimed at, your buyers will be looking for digital entertainment that keeps pace with technology. Increasingly, that means Sky±HD.

Our Specialist Installation Team can work directly with you, or your chosen contractors, to fit this future-proof solution. So arrange a free survey today.

By integrating a ‘5 cable IRS’ system and having 2 signal feeds to each satellite point (the only way of getting all the features Sky±HD offers), your residents will be able to enjoy TV the way they want it. And that makes your properties even more attractive to potential buyers.

Go to sky.com/newbuild or call 08442 411 702 Sky TV: Sky box and Sky TV subscription required for customers to receive Sky digital programming. Only compatible with digital satellite. Two satellite feeds required for full Sky±HD functionality. You must get all consents required (e.g. landlord’s). General: Minimum Sky TV, Sky±HD subscriptions are 12 months. Further terms apply. Calls cost up to 5.1p per minute and up to 13.1p connection fee for BT customers. Calls from other providers may vary. Information only applies to residential customers in the UK, Channel Islands and Isle of Man. Information correct at 5 April 2013.

Online Enquiry 079