Shaping the future of Nottingham’s Grade IIListed War Rooms
Smarter doorset solutions needed
Passivhaus milestone: School’s
Editor
Rebecca Kemp rebecca@redhutmedia.com
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Sam Ball sam@redhutmedia.com
Jim Moore
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Print Design Manager
Jack Witcomb jack@redhutmedia.com
Digital Design Manager
Matt Morse matt@redhutmedia.com
Publisher Sam Ball sam@redhutmedia.com
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Welcome to the January issue of PSBJ...
As we step into a new year, the public sector construction landscape continues to evolve, driven by the need for innovative solutions and resilient infrastructure. In this issue, we explore how the industry is responding to these challenges, focusing on projects that set new benchmarks for sustainability, security and efficiency.
One such example is the Passivhaus-certified extension at Sciennes Primary School in Edinburgh. Designed by Holmes Miller and delivered in collaboration with Will Rudd, this project demonstrates a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency, setting a new standard for school buildings. Turn to page 08
On page 14, Glyn Hauser, Engineering & Innovation Manager at JELD-WEN Europe, delves into practical solutions for addressing security challenges in student living spaces. With security concerns increasingly paramount in education settings, his insights highlight how doors are evolving to meet these needs while maintaining functionality and accessibility.
Meanwhile, on page 30, Matt Goff, Managing Director at Thurston Group, examines how MMC is offering a viable solution to the RAAC crisis in schools. These methods not only enhance sustainability but also address critical issues related to building safety, proving to be a cornerstone in shaping the future of school infrastructure.
Finally, on page 32, Sara Harraway of CPMG explores the historic War Rooms in Nottingham, discussing their transformation into a community hub. This fascinating scheme highlights the growing emphasis on heritage preservation and adaptive reuse.
Contributions
I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, you can also access the magazine’s features, product news and supplier information on PSBJ’s user-friendly and engaging website. Fully responsive, the website allows you to read all the latest stories on the go either on your smartphone or tablet. Simply visit www.psbjmagazine.com.
Carl Bailey, Regional Technical Manager for Elevate UK & Ireland, discusses the eco-friendly extension of a Berlin school and how an EPDM single-ply roofing membrane is enhancing sustainability. See page 20.
06 News
A round up of the latest industry news, including charity events, awarded contracts, completed projects and much more.
08 Upfront
Designed by Holmes Miller and delivered in collaboration with Will Rudd, the Passivhaus-certified extension at Sciennes Primary School in Edinburgh has set a new benchmark for sustainable school buildings.
12 Housing
Amanda Mills at Kinedo highlights the importance of adaptable bathroom solutions for multi-generational social housing.
08
14 Doors, Windows & Balustrades
Glyn Hauser, Engineering & Innovation Manager at JELD-WEN Europe, explores practical solutions to address the unique security challenges in student living spaces.
18 Healthcare
Peter Jackson, Managing Director at Jacksons Fencing, examines the vital considerations for specifying fencing in healthcare settings, recent trends in design and how the industry is evolving to meet future challenges.
20 Technical Focus
Carl Bailey, Regional Technical Manager for Elevate UK & Ireland, discusses the eco-friendly extension of a Berlin school and how an EPDM single-ply roofing membrane is enhancing sustainability.
22 HVAC
In this article, Jeremy Palmer, General Manager at Drayton, looks at the features of heating controls to keep things simple for housing associations, end users and installers.
Specifying CFA members for your flooring projects means you’ll gain a wealth of experience from vetted contractors with the knowledge and products to fulfil your specification with a sustainability criteria.
CFA members are part of a supply chain that includes specialist contract flooring contractors, manufacturers and distributors, all promoting the highest standards and expertise.
24 Bricks, Blocks & Paving
Mike Edwards, Group Head of Sustainability for Marshalls, studies the role of carbon emissions data in driving specification choices for bricks, blocks and paving.
26 Leisure
Louise McHugh, Product Manager at Vent-Axia, explains how the latest commercial heat recovery can optimise indoor air quality, transforming gyms and leisure centres.
28 Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS)
Tom Murray, UK Sales and Marketing Director at Polypipe Building Services, explains how manufacturers are helping the industry make significant strides in decarbonising construction.
30 Education
Matt Goff, Managing Director at Thurston Group, reveals how modular methods are addressing the RAAC crisis and shaping the future of school infrastructure.
32
Talking Point
Architect Sara Harraway of CPMG takes us on a journey through Nottingham’s historic War Rooms’ rich history, preservation efforts and the plans to transform this Cold War relic into a thriving community hub.
38 Product
Guide
A dedicated focus of industry news, products and case studies to help specifiers and local authorities make informed decisions.
INDUSTRY UPDATES
Each month, PSBJ rounds up the latest public sector construction updates, from new contracts to industry awards.
Springfield School shines brighter with multi-millionpound extension
A multi-million-pound school extension in Cheshire to create additional places for children with severe learning difficulties and complex needs has been completed. The scheme by Salfordbased MC Construction at Springfield School in Crewe will help address an urgent need for extra provision in the Cheshire East area, with demand at an all-time high. MC Construction, working on behalf of longstanding client Cheshire East Council, built a wrap-around extension to the existing sports pavilion to create eight additional classrooms, new ancillary spaces including calm rooms, a sensory room and a therapy room, along with new hygiene suites and toilets and improved kitchen facilities. Springfield School, whose motto is ‘Every day is a new chance to shine’, caters for pupils aged from four to 19 with severe learning difficulties and complex needs, including autism.
Burscough Sports Centre breaks ground on £3.18m regeneration
Works are underway in West Lancashire to transform Burscough Sports Centre into a thriving leisure, fitness and wellbeing hub, thanks to a £3.18m investment by West Lancashire Borough Council. Working in partnership with Alliance Leisure, improvements will deliver a modern, efficient facility that meets the diverse health and wellbeing needs of Burscough residents today and for many generations to come. “We are delighted with the progress of the refurbishment and are looking forward to Burscough Sports Centre reopening in early 2025,” says Councillor Coughlan of Lancashire Borough Council. “The changes will not only provide a quality modern offer to the residents of the borough, but they will also help the council to make progress towards its net-zero aspirations.” Renovations will include a completely reimagined layout incorporating a refurbished and extended gym with 70 workout stations and a newly-integrated functional training space.
New homes and NHS facility for vacant town centre site
A total of 199 much-needed homes will be built on a prominent town-centre site after Croydon Council’s planning department gave the go ahead. The site, at 17-21 Dingwall Road, has been empty for a number of years and will help to regenerate the area near East Croydon railway station. The development by Bellway Homes will include 20 affordable homes, 19 three-bedroom family homes as well as a children’s play area for residents and greenery. The housing will also have disabled car-parking spaces and cycle parking. An application was previously granted planning permission but has faced challenges with the viability and delivery of the plans. The main addition to the previous approval is space for an NHS facility and ambulance bay which – alongside safeguarded land for future tram expansion – will benefit the community and help to make sure that town-centre housing growth is supported by the right infrastructure.
Henry Brothers appointed on £9m police station refurbishment scheme
Henry Brothers Construction has been appointed on a £9m project to refurbish Wolverhampton Police Station. The project has been procured through the Pagabo Refit and Refurbishment Framework, with the contract including a wide-ranging programme of upgrades, improvements and refurbishments to be implemented via a phased programme. Midlands-based Henry Brothers Construction has been awarded the design and build contract by West Midlands Police, with work due to start on site in March 2025. The scope of work includes new doors, replacement windows, emergency lighting, new LED lighting control systems, the installation of variable refrigerant flow (VRF) heating and cooling and local mechanical heat recovery ventilation to all office spaces, including meeting and briefing rooms and redesigned and refurbished or replaced hot and cold-water provision. It also includes new kitchenettes, showers and toilets, the upgrade of the building’s tannoy system, CCTV upgrades, the installation of photovoltaic panels and redecoration throughout.
Leisure centre solar refurbishment surpasses energy-saving predictions one year on
One year following the installation of more than 800 new photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roof of Aylestone Leisure Centre, Leicester City Council is reaping the benefits of saving 55 tonnes of CO 2 annually through its continued investment into low-carbon, energy-efficient improvements to council buildings. Delivered by complete construction partner Stepnell and its energy group Step Energy, the 347kWp system has generated 285MWh over the past 12 months, surpassing its 250.8MWh predictions. Its CO 2 savings were also 12% greater than forecasted, with the savings equating to planting 1232 trees. The project involved the replacement of the leaky 3600m 2 roof at the leisure centre with the installation of a new 1800m 2 array of photovoltaic panels. The 828 PV panels were mounted in a south-facing ballasted array with five 50KW inverters, with new insulation fitted to reduce heat loss.
Construction gets underway for £9.5m leisure centre
A highly-aniticpated £9.5m project to modernise Lichfield’s leisure centre provision has begun in Stychbrook Park, with complete construction partner Stepnell appointed to undertake the design and build by Lichfield District Council. Procured through the Procure Partnerships Framework, the work will deliver a brand-new centre in a bid to support the diverse health and wellbeing needs of Lichfield’s residents. This includes a 25m, six-lane pool, bathrooms, changing rooms, circulation spaces, a gym, fitness/dance studio, spin studio and lobby, as well as associated works including plant and stores. The new centre will replace the ageing Friary Grange Leisure Centre and will offer provisions to cater for all abilities. Stepnell will dedicate significant time to the project to social value delivery through continued engagement with the local community.
Work begins on £55m Hertfordshire Constabulary HQ redevelopment
Modernising operational policing requirements, work has commenced on the £55m redevelopment of Hertfordshire Constabulary headquarters, delivering a flexible and agile workspace for 600 operational staff. The new space, which involves the demolishment and consolidation of five buildings, will be set across 9000m 2 and provide a new home for services and departments including the major crime unit, victim services and dog unit, along with the senior leadership team and operational support staff. Targeting BREEAM ‘Excellent’ for ultra-high sustainability standards, the building is also set to include heat recovery units, solar panels and sustainable drainage systems, while the new building will also respond to modern working requirements by prioritising hot desking and wellbeing initiatives in its design. Multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard is behind the scheme, operating via Perfect Circle, in a technical advisory role from RIBA Stage 3 under the SCAPE Consultancy framework.
Council gives green light for next exciting phase of town-centre regeneration
Sutton Council has announced its preferred development partner, Genr8 Kajima Regeneration (GKRL), for the next exciting phase of its town-centre regeneration. The plans for the St Nicholas Shopping Centre, Civic Offices, Gibson Road car park and Secombe Theatre sites will see a brand-new Civic Hub open in the heart of the town centre. The hub will offer residents a new ‘front door’ to access services from the council and its partners right on the high street, as well as a new library and community spaces. The proposed Civic Hub should be completed by mid-2029. Around 740 new homes – 50% of which will be affordable housing for local families, including nearly 300 homes for social rent – will be built on the existing Civic Offices, Gibson Road car park and Secombe Theatre sites. There will also be improvements to the public realm, such as new ways to access the town centre.
SCIENNES PRIMARY SCHOOL
EXTENSION
OFFICIALLY
AWARDED PASSIVHAUS CERTIFICATION AND WINS
THREE PRESTIGIOUS INDUSTRY ACCOLADES
A Passivhaus-designed extension to an Edinburgh school has been officially recognised as a first-of-its-kind in the city, receiving recognition for its groundbreaking use of energy-efficient design and materials, including crosslaminated timber (CLT).
The extension to Sciennes Primary School, located in the popular and busy Marchmont area of the capital, has officially achieved Passivhaus certification from the Passivhaus Institute, following rigorous quality checks of the £3.2m two-storey extension to the Grade B-Listed building.
The project has also been honoured with three prestigious industry awards, receiving the ‘Large Scale Project award’ from the Edinburgh Architect’s Association, ‘Innovation in Delivering a Sustainable Learning Space’ award at the Learning Places Scotland Awards and the Glasgow Institute of Architects award for Education.
The City of Edinburgh Council sought to replace the outdated temporary classrooms at the school with state-of-the-art facilities to accommodate future pupil enrolment. Emphasising environmental sustainability, the new pavilion boasts a minimal carbon footprint and houses four new classroom spaces.
The new pavilion was designed by architect firm Holmes Miller in collaboration with sustainable environmental design consultant, Sussed Sustainability, and constructed to Passivhaus standards, meaning energy consumption and carbon emissions will be reduced by retaining heat in winter while still being comfortably cool in warmer weather.
The innovative structural solution was delivered by leading structural engineering practice, Will Rudd, in collaboration with the contractor, Maxi Construction.
Adhering to Passivhaus standards, the Sciennes Primary School extension was the first in Scotland to be constructed from cross-laminated timber (CLT) – an energyefficient material that contributes to a warm interior environment and delivers exceptional airtightness performance.
Will Rudd was appointed directly by the council to join the wider design team, leveraging its extensive experience from three previous primary school projects within the city.
Work commenced in June 2022 and was completed by August 2023. Since then, the project team has been working with the institute and certifiers to quality check the completed building, culminating in it being officially certified last year.
Carolyn Anstruther, Depute Headteacher at Sciennes Primary School, says: “We are thrilled to see that our new Passivhaus extension is officially certified and recognised with these prestigious awards. The new extension, currently housing our primary one pupils, enhances our play-based approach to learning in these warm, comfortable and airy classrooms, which allow easy access to the outdoor spaces. This ultra-modern
building blends in beautifully with our original Victorian building, creating an environment that supports our commitment to sustainability and environmental friendliness.
“From the beginning of this project, our pupils were actively involved and their opinions and suggestions were always considered by the team. The pupils are proud to see their own designs on the glass panels and wall mural, which will serve as a lasting memento of pupil involvement in the project.
“Our school buildings need to evolve to be fit for the future, and we hope the success of our new extension at Sciennes Primary will inspire similar projects.”
Shirley Evatt, Senior Associate at Will Rudd, says: “To achieve Passivhaus certification and to win this prestigious award from the Edinburgh Architect’s Association is a real validation of the passion and hard work of the whole project team. Congratulations and thanks should go to everyone involved.
“This wasn’t an easy project, and we faced some challenges, particularly with the school’s location and proximity to surrounding buildings. However, through open and honest dialogue and a real collaborative approach, we have achieved this historic milestone.
“The extension to Sciennes Primary School is now officially the first Passivhaus primary school in Edinburgh, and we are incredibly proud to have played our part in
achieving this and providing sustainable, state-of-the-art learning environments for future generations. We look forward to working with our colleagues across the built environment to deliver more sustainable projects like these.”
Clara Garriga, Project Director at Holmes Miller, adds: “Sciennes Primary is a testament to what can be achieved through open-minded collaboration and a passion for good architecture with people at its heart. Combining sustainable design with an understanding of the needs of young learners, we worked closely with our partners to push the boundaries and deliver a unique learning facility where pupils can thrive.
“Achieving Passivhaus certification marks a major milestone in our commitment to creating net-zero spaces that enrich communities. We hope this project will inspire the design of more inclusive and creative schools in Edinburgh and beyond.”
The new Sciennes Primary School extension was strategically positioned in the rear playground, within the footprint of the old temporary units. To maximise dialogue and transparency, an action group comprising the council, school management, parents and the project design team was established to develop the brief and monitor progress. The desire to futureproof the school and achieve high-energy performance through Passivhaus principles became a key focus.
From inception, the school pupils and staff were involved and had regular communication with the design team to ensure they were part of the project journey.
Matt Bridgestock, Director at Sussed Sustainability, concludes: “Passivhaus certification for Sciennes Primary School highlights the rigorous construction quality and collaboration behind the project. This achievement ensures a healthy, comfortable and inspiring learning environment for children while setting a new standard for energy-efficient schools. It proves that Scotland’s construction industry can deliver radically better buildings with the right approach.”
www.ruddconsult.com
FACT FILE:
Architect: Holmes Miller
Principal contractor: Maxi Construction
Project management/quantity
surveyor and principal designer: Doig & Smith
M&E engineer: The Blackwood Partnership / the Council’s in-house M&E engineers
Sustainable environmental design consultant and passivhaus designer: Sussed Sustainability
CLT designer and specialist subcontractor: Constructional Timber Manufacturers Ltd
FUTUREPROOFING SOCIAL HOUSING FOR DECADES TO COME
With multi-generational homes becoming common in the UK, shower solutions need to be flexible and accessible for all ages. Indeed, futureproofing homes to remain comfortable and functional over time is now a major focus for building developers and owners of social housing.
Amanda Mills at Kinedo underlines the importance of utilising sustainable and adaptable bathroom solutions, such as bathroom wall panels, and reveals how these innovative products are designed to enhance the buildability of any building they’re installed in.
The social and public health benefits, financial advantages, cultural traditions and high rental costs have seen a rise in multi-generational living in the UK in recent years. In fact, a recent study revealed that there are approximately 1.8 million multigenerational households in the UK – about 6.8% of all households.
Many properties, especially in social housing, may not have originally been designed and built to comfortably accommodate multiple generations. Additionally, more populated homes often mean less personal time and space, increasing the importance of having a relaxing and comfortable bathroom in which to de-stress and unwind.
As a result, there is an increasing need for bathrooms to be designed and renovated with flexibility and accessibility in mind.
While tiles have been the most popular design option for many years, bathroom wall panels are increasingly becoming the go-to choice, thanks to their incredible durability, the myriad of design options, mould resistance and easy installation.
Designed and built to adapt to evolving needs
With social housing often needing to adapt to evolving tenant needs and owners required to meet ever-changing Building Regulations, it’s essential that the finest and most long-lasting materials are used.
Designed with longevity in mind, Kinedo bathroom wall panels are manufactured from aluminium and polyethylene. As a result, they are incredibly durable, easy to clean and 100% waterproof, meaning they’re able to withstand the rigours of daily use and require very little cleaning and maintenance.
Additionally, bathroom wall panels don’t feature any grouting, which is a common location for mould growth. So, when you combine this with the fact they are made from one of the most trusted and hardwearing materials, it’s easy to understand
why they’re popular with builders wanting long-lasting and reliable yet stylish bathroom refurbishment options.
Easy cleaning and maintenance
For occupants of multi-generational households, time is often at a premium, meaning less opportunity to carry out regular cleaning and maintenance in bathrooms. The cost-of-living crisis is also adding extra pressure to those in social housing, increasing the need to reduce regular unnecessary spending where possible. Indeed, a report by the Clarion Housing Group1 revealed that 56% of households were worse off financially than they were 12 months ago.
With that in mind, expensive cleaning materials, such as those aimed at removing mould from grouting, can often be sources of expenditure needed to be cut out to allow for the purchase of more essential items.
Easy to clean, 100% waterproof and not featuring any grout – thereby reducing the chance of mould forming – bathroom wall panels offer housing providers and tenants the ideal solution.
Meeting
sustainability targets
The Government’s rapidly approaching target of net zero by 2050 means that the pressure is on for housing developers and owners of social housing to futureproof and retrofit their properties by that date.
This pressure is exacerbated even further by the fact that there are around 4.1 million social housing properties in the UK that require retrofitting, with around 1.6 million of those having an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating below C.
Manufactured from aluminium and polyethylene, Kinedo bathroom wall panels are the ideal choice for sustainability and environment-conscious property owners and developers. Both of these materials can be recycled, and they often require less energy to produce than other metals, resulting in a lower carbon footprint.
A myriad of creative possibilities
With several generations likely to be using the bathroom, the design must ensure a comfortable and accessible yet stylish showering or bathing experience for all users. The hundreds of designs, styles and colours available mean bathroom wall panels can very easily transform the look and feel of any bathroom while matching the needs and tastes of all members of the household.
Able to be mixed and matched, bathroom wall panels can be customised to perfectly suit the style of the bathroom. For example, one style or colour can be utilised throughout the bathroom, with another chosen for the shower or bath area. The bold use of colours and patterns can really create an incredibly relaxing and calming space that evokes a sense of refreshment and rejuvenation.
Should personal tastes change, removing and installing new bathroom wall panels is quick and painless. Able to be fitted on top of tiles, paint or existing panels, bathroom wall panels offer real flexibility when it comes to the design of a bathroom.
While the multitude of bathroom tiling options has transformed bathrooms from simple places for occupants to wash and bathe themselves into stunning, elegant and comfortable spaces in which to relax and reinvigorate one’s self, wall panels are set to take this one step further.
As an easy-to-install and maintain, stylish and durable addition to any bathroom, wall panels are an incredibly cost-effective alternative to the more traditional bathroom tiling. Designed and built to last for decades, bathroom wall panels will embrace the ever-changing needs and demands of multi-generational living and lead the bathroom refurbishment industry towards an even greener, more stylish and practical future.
With the UK student housing shortfall expected to exceed 620,000 beds by 2029 1, universities and accommodation providers face mounting pressure to not just increase capacity, but ensure the infrastructure maintains safe and secure standards, says Glyn Hauser, Engineering & Innovation Manager at JELD-WEN Europe.
This comes at a time when students, who are already affected by growing financial pressures, are often seen as some of the easiest demographics for burglars to target. Typically housing multiple new, high-value electronics, they are often moving into an unfamiliar neighbourhood with a relaxed attitude to security. The proliferation of social media usage also means students may be inadvertently advertising their whereabouts and belongings to potential thieves, putting them at a higher level of risk.
Security concerns
Research indicates that students are nearly three times more likely 2 to experience a burglary than the average person. This was echoed in a recent study by JELD-WEN UK 3, which found that, in the past 12 months, more than a third (36%) of students have experienced or know someone who has experienced a break in to their student housing. Yet, 90% of the 1000 respondents still
reported feeling safe where they live –highlighting a clear disconnect between perceived and actual security risks.
Purpose-built student accommodation presents unique access challenges, with a high turnover of occupants and hundreds of residents moving between private and common spaces at all hours of the day. This can result in a compromise to security, such as communal doors being left open or non-residents being let inside the property without proper authorisation.
When asked about security issues where they live, our research found that 52% of students believed their parents would be concerned. However, 42% still admitted to leaving their communal entrance door unlocked overnight or during the day, despite a fifth feeling that the door to their individual room did not offer adequate security against unauthorised access.
In the current economic climate, the cost-of-living crisis has the potential to increase opportunistic theft.
Understanding risk
There are, of course, a number of challenges when it comes to improving standards. Cost considerations can lead to the procurement of cheaper, lower-quality products, while improper installation and poor maintenance can go on to impact their performance.
High levels of traffic means that doors throughout the building are subject to heavy wear and tear, further compromising the quality of the product if not properly repaired. Meanwhile, a relaxed attitude to security among students, particularly during social gatherings, can lead to entrance doors being propped open or damaged.
While recent years have seen increasing uptake for high-tech security solutions, such as CCTV and video doorbells, internal doors remain largely overlooked as a worthwhile investment when retrofitting student properties. However, these can help to improve the level of security within individual dwellings.
A high-quality room entrance doorset will arrive to site pre-assembled with compatible components and hardware from a controlled factory setting. Not only does this ensure each element of the door is performing as intended, but it requires less dependency on joiner expertise, offering more reliability, reducing installation errors and minimising future maintenance demands. This, ultimately, offers better peace of mind for students that their possessions will be protected and provides property managers with the confidence that the door itself will withstand the test of time.
In addition, smart lock integration has the potential to elevate security standards even further, allowing students to lock and unlock their doors using smartphones, keypads or key fobs, eliminating the risk of lost or copied physical keys. Estate managers can also track access more effectively, immediately revoking access permissions if needed.
Setting higher standards
While there is no single solution to burglary risk in student accommodation, there are clear opportunities to improve standards across the sector.
For example, the Fire Safety Act 2021 now mandates regular inspections to monitor fire door performance in multi-occupancy properties, and security checks could also be incorporated into these routine assessments. Fire door inspections must ensure that repairs are made promptly when issues are identified, and by extending these checks to include the performance of security features – such as locks, hinges and frames – property managers can ensure multiple safety standards are upheld.
Following extensive research into security challenges, JELD-WEN has proposed several recommendations in a recently published whitepaper: The introduction of new regulation, which establishes minimum security standards that all student accommodations must meet – regardless of location or ownership. This level of standardisation would provide greater clarity for accommodation providers about their responsibilities and enable students to better understand their rights.
A legal requirement for all doorset installations and maintenance work to be completed by a qualified installer, validated through a UKASaccredited certification scheme. This would ensure each doorset is installed correctly and able to perform as intended.
The introduction of an initiative among universities to improve awareness among students, including an education campaign around door security, locking protocols and general best practice.
Building a more secure future
For education providers, the implications of inadequate security can be far-reaching. From student wellbeing and academic performance to reputational damages that could influence future recruitment, there is a need to address immediate risks to mitigate long-term impact.
Students have a right to access safe and secure housing, and property managers should be taking every step to ensure this. Better doorset specification can offer a significant opportunity to enhance protection for residents and provide them with better peace of mind.
The university experience should be an exciting one. By implementing these recommendations and choosing quality entrance doorsets, we can help to ensure that security concerns don’t overshadow what should be a memorable and transformative period in those students’ lives – for all the right reasons.
NEW HOSPITALS AND HEALTHCARE FACILITIES: GROWING NEED FOR SECURE HEALTHCARE INFRASTRUCTURE
Peter Jackson, Managing Director at Jacksons Fencing, explores the vital considerations for specifying fencing in healthcare settings, recent trends in design and how the industry is evolving to meet future challenges.
A s healthcare systems expand to meet the demands of growing populations and technological advancements, secure infrastructure has become a critical focus. Hospitals and healthcare facilities must not only provide cutting-edge medical care but also ensure the safety of patients, staff and sensitive data. Fencing, a fundamental aspect of healthcare infrastructure, plays a key role in achieving these objectives by enhancing security, privacy and functionality.
According to Building Magazine1, the urgency of building secure and modern healthcare infrastructure has been brought into sharp focus by a landmark report revealing a £37bn capital funding shortfall for hospitals over the last
decade. This gap has hindered the ability of the UK healthcare system to address growing demands.
In response, Labour has pledged to complete the previous Government’s £20bn New Hospital Programme, which aimed to deliver 40 new hospital schemes. With this comes the importance of securing new and existing hospitals to ensure they can modernise and serve effectively.
The challenges
While expanding healthcare facilities is a positive development, it comes with challenges, particularly in the area of security.
Modern hospitals are heavily reliant on digital systems, which makes them
prime targets for cyberattacks. Protecting sensitive patient data and operational systems is paramount in this digital age. Physical security, too, is a concern but equally important. Healthcare facilities must safeguard against unauthorised access, ensuring that only patients, staff and authorised personnel can enter restricted areas. Robust security measures are necessary to protect vulnerable individuals and prevent breaches that could disrupt patient care or compromise sensitive operations.
The role of fencing
in healthcare infrastructure
Fencing is a vital aspect of healthcare security. Fencing serves multiple purposes, including creating a secure perimeter, enhancing privacy and contributing to the facility’s overall design. When designing fencing for healthcare settings, a range of considerations must be taken into account.
Security is the primary concern; fencing must be robust, tamper-resistant and difficult to climb. At the same time, it must not impede accessibility, especially for emergency services and individuals with mobility challenges.
Privacy is another crucial factor. Certain areas of a hospital, such as recovery gardens or critical care units, require fencing that shields patients from public view. However, visibility is equally important in some areas, as it allows for effective surveillance and quick response to potential issues. The design of the fencing must strike a balance between these needs, ensuring that both privacy and safety are maintained.
Design considerations
The aesthetic appeal of fencing is also increasingly important in healthcare settings. Harsh or industrial designs can detract from the welcoming atmosphere that hospitals strive to create. Fencing that complements the facility’s architecture and integrates natural elements can contribute to a more therapeutic environment for patients and visitors alike.
Durability and low maintenance are additional priorities. Hospitals require fencing that can withstand wear and tear, resist weather conditions and minimise disruptions caused by frequent repairs. Special considerations also come into play, depending on the specific needs of a facility. Hospitals in urban areas, for example, may benefit from acoustic fencing to reduce noise pollution from nearby traffic or machinery. Paediatric facilities require childproof fencing with safety features, such as specialised gate locks and anti-trap features, to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of young patients. Emergency planning is another critical aspect, as fencing must not obstruct evacuation routes or impede the access of first responders.
Shaping healthcare design
Recent trends in fencing design reflect the evolving needs of healthcare facilities. Modern fencing solutions are increasingly multi-functional, combining security with additional benefits such as noise reduction and enhanced privacy.
Aesthetic integration has also gained prominence, with fencing designed to blend seamlessly with the facility’s surroundings. Acoustic fences made of natural materials like timber are a popular choice, as they provide high performance in security and noise mitigation while maintaining an appealing appearance.
Best practice
When selecting fencing for healthcare facilities, thorough research and collaboration with experts are essential. Consulting trusted manufacturers and industry specialists ensures that the chosen solutions meet the facility’s unique needs.
Additionally, engaging with other specifiers and stakeholders provides valuable insights into innovative approaches and best practices.
As healthcare facilities continue to expand and modernise, the importance of secure and sustainable infrastructure will only grow.
Fencing, as a key component of this infrastructure, must adapt to the changing demands of healthcare environments. By prioritising security, functionality and sustainability, stakeholders can create safe, welcoming spaces that support patient care and operational efficiency. Secure fencing is more than just a boundary – it is an integral part of a resilient healthcare system.
www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk
LEARNING LESSONS FROM GERMANY
Carl Bailey, Regional Technical Manager for Elevate UK & Ireland, discusses the eco-friendly extension of a Berlin school and how an EPDM single-ply roofing membrane is enhancing sustainability.
Designed by German architectural practice, MONO Architekten, the extension of Free Waldorf School in Prenzlauer Berg, Berlin, marked a distinct departure from the original architectural style. Tasked with extending a 1970s prefabricated building spanning five storeys, the architects opted for a more contemporary and visually dynamic appearance.
Stretching towards the sports hall, the extension provides the school’s courtyard with a structural back to the street and a clear centre. The projections and recesses create different outdoor areas for various uses. A cluster of pentagonal structures in different sizes join to form the unusual building with roof slopes designed in different directions.
With sustainability at the core of the project, MONO Architekten used natural and renewable materials wherever possible. The structures of the extension are timber framed, and the outer walls are filled with building straw and plastered with clay. Untreated larch wood planks of various widths serve as exterior cladding to evoke
the feeling of a calm oasis in the middle of the busy European capital. Coloured clay plaster, wooden floors and wall heating integrated into the outer clay walls create a welcoming interior environment.
No ordinary roof
The entire roof area, including the pentagonal structures, are topped with green roofs to emulate the appearance of lush mossy stones and provide more space for nature. A mix of low-growing herb grasses was selected, which, during flowering season, offer a colourful display to the children while attracting beneficial insects such as pollinators, improving local biodiversity.
More generally, in addition to their aesthetic value, the green roofs offer further benefits, particularly in the urban setting. As well as having a positive impact on people’s health and wellbeing, the roofs will help mitigate the urban heat island effect by returning moisture to the environment while providing good thermal and sound insulation.
Sustainable waterproofing
In line with the architect’s creative vision, the roofing membrane for the new extension had to be sustainable, efficient, versatile and flexible, offering a perfect
fit for the irregular shapes of the building. It also had to be lightweight and robust enough to provide a durable foundation for the green roof system.
To meet these needs, Elevate’s RubberGard EPDM single-ply roofing membrane was specified. Made of synthetic rubber, EPDM membranes are designed for waterproofing flat and lowslope roofs and have sustainable features widely recognised by international institutions. Greenpeace, GreenTeam and the Dutch Institute for Building Biology and Ecology (NIBE) have named it as the roofing membrane with the least environmental impact, offering a durable, long-term solution for modern architecture.
In its latest evaluation, NIBE states that EPDM roofing membranes are the most environmentally-friendly choice for flat roofs. Carried out every two years, the analysis compares the initial costs (material and installation costs) as well as all hidden environmental costs (raw material consumption, energy consumption during production) of roofing membranes from different manufacturers.
No harmful substances are released during or after the installation of an EPDM roofing membrane, making it safe for rainwater harvesting. Thanks to improved formulation, the release of carbon during operational use has also been almost eliminated.
The longevity of EPDM single-ply roofing membranes has increased, too. The absence of plasticisers allows the membrane to retain its flexibility without the risk of migration, which can lead to cracking, flaking and, ultimately, the failure of the roof surface. The membrane will return to its original shape and maintain its performance after any expansions or retractions caused by severe weather, ensuring it can adapt to the roofs’ irregular shapes.
EPDM roof membranes evaluated in the Central European climatic region have been independently studied with the conclusion that a service life beyond 50 years may be expected.
National recognition
The design and quality of the completed green extension have been widely recognised. The project topped the ‘Public Building – New Buildings & Existing Buildings’ category in Germany’s Federal Timber Construction Plus competition. The German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture grants this prize every two years, rewarding exemplary buildings made with renewable raw materials.
This project was also nominated for the Deutsches Architekturmuseum (DAM) Award for Architecture, one of the most renowned architecture awards in Germany.
SIMPLICITY IS KEY WHEN IT COMES TO HEATING CONTROLS
As many occupants are becoming increasingly reliant on technology to manage energy usage in the home, it is important that these options offer accessibility above all else. Here, Jeremy Palmer, General Manager at Drayton, looks at the features of heating controls to keep things simple for housing associations, end users and installers.
ith the cost-of-living crisis still being widely felt across the country, it is important that social housing occupants have the means to help them ensure energy and cost efficiency. Heating controls are a great way to do this. However, given that such housing plays host to millions of people, all with differing needs and requirements, it is essential that the controls installed are not only intuitive but easily accessible to all and that there be no barrier to use for the elderly, or people with disabilities.
With this in mind, heating controls with simple features and Bluetooth functionality, like Drayton’s Digistat, should be considered to ensure comfort and efficiency savings, all whilst prioritising simplicity and ease of use across the board.
Accessibility
According to a report from the Smith’s Institute 1, by 2034, there will be 170,000 more residents with mobility problems and 45,000 with serious memory problems living in housing association properties than in 2013.
This highlights that accessibility really is a must when it comes to providing homes that support occupants as well as possible. Given this, it is important to recognise that not every heating control solution will be suitable. Some controls, particularly those operated via apps, may be difficult to navigate for someone who is ageing, has a limiting illness or a disability. Also, it is important to note that many people may favour controls that offer manual features they are already familiar with.
This is where a product like Drayton’s Digistat can be incredibly useful for its flexibility, offering optional app control via Bluetooth, should this suit the user’s preferences. The Digistat also has a clear, easy-to-read screen, an audible feedback feature and recessed buttons for simple operation for those who prefer manual control. In fact, so accessible is Drayton’s Digistat option that it is recognised by The Research Institute for Disabled Consumers as a recommended thermostat.
Always on
While there is no doubt people are becoming reliant on an internet connection for a variety of reasons, a recent Ofcom report2 found that over 1.5 million households don’t have access to the internet. Those in social housing may also find it difficult to access a good connection if they are without broadband.
However, this should not mean that occupants miss out on the benefits afforded to those who do. In these types of properties, a Bluetooth-enabled device opens up a reliable alternative. Should there be an outage or a poor internet connection in the area, occupants will still be able to manage their heating using their smartphone.
Not forgetting installers
A Bluetooth-enabled device offers several innovative benefits for both occupants and installers, allowing residents to easily control their heating schedules and supporting an easy installation.
The RF version of Drayton’s Digistat, for example, is compatible with an industry standard UK wall plate making for a simple, straightforward fit. Additionally, the Digistat offers an easy and flexible service internal setup for required maintenance, with a reminder feature, plus a reduced comfort or off option.
The Digistat also makes installers’ lives easier, given that it is compatible with a range of different heat sources to reflect the changing heating landscape. It not only supports traditional gas and oil boilers but also low-carbon alternatives, including heat pumps and electric heat systems, meaning it is suitable for most properties.
Supporting energy efficiency
While it is essential for local authorities and housing associations to choose heating controls with user accessibility and preferences front of mind, it is also important to
choose controls that allow the end user to make efficiency improvements and cost savings.
Options like Drayton’s Digistat allow for the improved performance of heating systems, without the complexities associated with internet-connected heating controls. This can be achieved, for example, by offering smart modes such as Away Mode and Delayed Start, which can provide reductions of 14 and 10%, respectively.
While many households are turning to heating controls to better manage their home’s energy consumption, it is important to remember that often simplicity is key. Thanks to developments in technology, though, social housing associations can meet occupant needs with the simple features and Bluetooth connectivity offered by heating controls, like the Digistat, whilst guaranteeing inexpensive and easy installations.
BRICK BY BRICK: THE ROLE OF DATADRIVEN CHOICES IN ADDRESSING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Mike Edwards, Group Head of Sustainability for Marshalls, discusses the role of carbon emissions data in driving specification choices for bricks, blocks and paving.
As the construction industry recognises and responds to its impact on global greenhouse gas emissions, sustainability has become a critical consideration in every project. Whether the main driver is attaining certifications like BREEAM or achieving a measurable reduction in carbon footprint, there is increasing pressure for architects and specifiers to evidence carbon emissions and implement data-driven decision-making in projects.
Recognising this shift, responsible manufacturers must also respond by increasing the availability of robust Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), making it easier for specifiers to base their decision-making on clear evidence and robust science-based data. At the same time, manufacturers must also support customer understanding of EPDs and carbon emissions reporting so that specifiers can make informed choices.
Understanding EPDs
While EPDs are relatively standardised documents that make it easier to draw fair comparisons between products within the same product group across different
suppliers, there are factors to consider when reviewing them side by side.
Footprint boundary is the first factor that should be considered so that specifiers understand which stages of the product’s lifecycle are included. Does it cover raw material extraction, manufacturing, transportation and end of life? Or does it only cover ‘cradle to gate’ where neither the impacts of the delivery of the product to the customer nor the rest of the product’s lifecycle is included?
The second factor is the declared unit being used. Different EPDs report emissions based on different units, such as per tonne or square metre. Make sure the data is normalised to a common unit before making comparisons.
Thirdly is service life. A product EPD may show a higher carbon embodiment, but if this is based on a longer service life, it may actually have a lower carbon impact on a like-for-like basis. Compare the service life claims in the EPD and assess whether they are reasonable and directly comparable.
The final consideration is what data is being measured, how specific it is and what assumptions have been made.
Is the data generic (reflecting broad industry sector numbers) or specific to that manufacturer? Ensure the EPD reflects accurate data that applies to the particular product or product family being considered.
Specifiers should also identify which modules the EPD is reporting on. Modules range from A1-D, covering raw material extraction through to disposal and even any future benefits should the product be recycled. Module A1-A3 is typically based on robust, manufacturer-specific data, while modules A4 represents the carbon impact of the delivery to the customer, a vital aspect when comparing British-manufactured products to products imported from Ireland, Europe or even further afield. Modules B1-D should be based on recognised, reasonable scenarios and assumptions, but these will be outlined in the EPD, so it’s always worth checking.
Practical implementation
With this knowledge, specifiers can begin to make robust comparisons of products and, in doing so, may be surprised by their findings. Concrete-facing bricks vs clay-facing bricks is one such area.
Traditionally, concrete has been seen as solely a practical material, chosen more for its strength and durability. What’s more, there have also been concerns about the environmental credentials of concrete and its carbon footprint. However, the latest EPD data for our concrete-facing bricks tells a different story.
This new EPD for concrete-facing bricks show that when comparing the total carbon lifetime footprint of a tonne of concrete-facing bricks and a tonne of clay-facing bricks, the carbon footprint is significantly lower for the concrete-facing option 1. In fact, for every tonne of concrete-facing bricks used instead of more traditional clayfacing bricks, the total carbon lifetime footprint is cut by almost half (49.1%) 2 . This equates to 116.50 kilograms of carbon dioxide per tonne of bricks.
Practically, when scaled to the total number of bricks used to construct homes during 2023 – approximately 1.1m3 – the carbon footprint savings are substantial. If all dwellings built in the UK during 2023 were constructed using concrete-facing bricks, the UK could have saved 214,057 kilograms of CO2 This is equivalent to removing 105,663 diesel cars off the road for a year.
Innovations in concrete
Concrete brick manufacturers have achieved this reduction in carbon footprint in multiple ways, including by looking at levels of cement in their typical mix designs. Cement accounts for about 88% of the emissions associated with the average concrete mix; therefore, reducing the amount
of cement is a positive first step to reduce its impact. Fortunately, some manufacturers have easily made this change, optimising the mix to balance carbon footprint and performance.
Innovating further, leading manufacturers are now developing mixes with significantly reduced levels of cement that will drastically reduce the environmental impact of such products. While these developments might not be long-term solutions, they will provide a vital stepping stone to the ultimate goal of lower or even zero-carbon cement.
What’s more, concrete has a unique ability to sequester carbon dioxide naturally. Over its lifetime, concrete can absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which it then mineralises and locks away for millennia, preventing its release into the atmosphere even upon demolition. Harnessing this ability, manufacturers are even injecting waste carbon dioxide from other sectors into the mix of concretebased bricks during production without any impact on the performance or durability of the brick.
As sustainability continues to drive material selection in construction, datadriven decision-making is more critical than ever. EPDs can provide specifiers with the information they need to make informed choices that reduce a project’s carbon footprint, but the pressure is on for manufacturers to provide clear, accurate and detailed cradle-to-grave environmental data for their products and be constantly working to reduce emissions further.
FOOTNOTES:
1Based on a comparison of GWP Total A1-C4 within Marshalls Facing Bricks EPD published 2024 versus Brick Development Association
UK Clay Brick EPD issued 2019.
2Based on a comparison of GWP Total A1-C4 within Marshalls Facing Bricks EPD published 2024 versus Brick Development Association
UK Clay Brick EPD issued 2019.
3Calculation based on devolved Government statistics for dwellings built in 2023, multiplied by the average square footage of UK homes and an average width-to-length ratio for walls and floors applied.
FRESH AIR: ENHANCING GYMS WITH GOOD INDOOR AIR QUALITY
Good indoor air quality (IAQ) is vital in gyms and leisure centres to help ensure a healthy environment for staff and users. Louise McHugh, Product Manager at Vent-Axia, explains how the latest commercial heat recovery can optimise IAQ, transforming gyms and leisure centres, reducing airborne contaminants and enhancing occupant comfort, health and performance.
Good indoor air quality (IAQ) is a growing priority in the design and operation of gyms and leisure centres. Here, people take part in intense physical activity and need effective ventilation to improve indoor air for comfort, health and performance. Ensuring clean, fresh air reduces the presence of airborne contaminants and creates a healthier environment for both gym users and staff. Following the COVID pandemic, indoor air quality came to the top of the agenda with the last updates to Building Regulations Part F, giving HVAC contractors and consultants a clear mandate to specify and integrate effective ventilation strategies that meet compliance while enhancing occupant comfort.
Gyms and leisure centres are unique environments. High occupancy rates, coupled with the physical exertion of users, mean that these spaces have a greater need for effective ventilation than many other types of commercial buildings. Sweat,
increased respiration and constant activity can contribute to elevated levels of CO₂, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other airborne pollutants. Poor IAQ in such spaces can lead to discomfort, reduced athletic performance and even health issues, including respiratory problems and fatigue.
Studies have shown that good IAQ in fitness environments can enhance the experience, improve mood and increase performance. Optimising IAQ can also reduce absenteeism among staff and encourage user retention, making it a crucial factor in the success of any leisure facility. Therefore, it is essential that HVAC contractors and consultants pay close attention to the quality of the air in these environments, ensuring it is fresh, clean and well-regulated.
Building Regulations
The last revisions to the Building Regulations Approved Document F put a greater emphasis on ventilation and
IAQ for commercial buildings, including gyms and leisure centres. With the pandemic highlighting the importance of good ventilation to mitigate virus transmission, Part F introduced improvements to ventilation in new non-residential properties to help prevent the spread of airborne viruses. In fact, it states that in “locations where continuous talking or singing takes place or there are high levels of physical activity (such as dancing, playing sport or exercising), providing ventilation sufficient to keep CO 2 levels below 800ppm is recommended”.
Another key change involves the requirement to monitor IAQ in occupied rooms, ensuring that ventilation systems are responsive to real-time conditions. Specifically, Part F highlights that buildings must have the means to maintain acceptable IAQ, with monitored CO₂ levels often used as a reliable indicator of air quality.
All Images: Vent-Axia’s Sentinel Apex
Commercial heat recovery
One effective response to the challenges of maintaining optimal IAQ in gyms and leisure centres is the implementation of demand-controlled ventilation systems. These systems adjust ventilation rates in response to monitored parameters such as CO₂ levels, occupancy or humidity. By tailoring ventilation to actual needs, demand-controlled systems can ensure that fresh air is supplied exactly when and where it is needed without wasting energy.
The latest commercial heat recovery ventilation systems, such as the Sentinel Apex from Vent-Axia, incorporate cuttingedge demand control technology. The Sentinel Apex maintains optimal IAQ while minimising energy consumption. Offering sophisticated demand control the Sentinel Apex is designed to address the needs of high-occupancy spaces like gyms and leisure centres, where air quality can change rapidly based on the number of users and their level of activity.
The Sentinel Apex features CO₂ demand control ventilation, a method that aligns perfectly with the updated requirements of Approved Document F. By monitoring CO₂ levels continuously, the system can modulate airflow in real-time, ensuring good IAQ in occupied spaces and compliance with Part F. The system increases ventilation when it detects a rise in CO₂ concentration, such as during peak gym hours and reduces it when demand drops – making it both effective and energy efficient.
Energy efficiency
Gym and leisure centres that have been feeling the pinch due to increasing energy prices will be pleased that manufacturers have designed the latest commercial heat recovery ventilation, such as Vent-Axia’s Sentinel Apex, to be highly energy efficient with industry-leading low specific fan powers (SFP) and low embodied carbon. Manufacturers have
also made occupant comfort a priority by ensuring units operate quietly and effectively to improve IAQ. Heat recovery ventilation combined with demand control helps reduce the energy costs associated with ventilation and improves thermal comfort. In cooler months, the system captures and reuses heat from exhaust air to temper incoming fresh air, reducing the need for additional heating. In the summer in air-conditioned spaces, the recovery cell can recover coolth instead to reduce the level of air conditioning required. With up to 93% thermal recovery efficiency, these types of units save huge amounts of energy that would otherwise be wasted, such as heat in winter or coolth in summer.
However, as buildings become increasingly airtight, the threat of overheating is growing. Summer bypass is, therefore, a feature contractors and consultants should consider wisely when specifying heat recovery ventilation for gyms and leisure centres. For instance, the Sentinel Apex features an integral automatic summer bypass designed to provide free cooling when available but ensure it is sized to eliminate performance loss.
Meanwhile, filters need to be chosen carefully since a poor choice might affect the heat recovery unit’s efficiency, resulting in a higher SFP. As standard, the Sentinel Apex features ePM10 50% extract and ePM1 70% supply filters, which help provide good IAQ vital in gyms with highintensity exercise. But, through careful selection of filter media and utilising the latest motors and impellers with better than IE5 efficiency, Apex maintains extremely low SFP and low sound levels.
Lastly when choosing a unit, opting for a product that is serviceable and maintainable so each component can be removed and replaced, if necessary, is helpful as it extends the heat recovery unit’s life. For instance, the Apex is completely serviceable and maintainable with complete access to all internal components so new motors or heating cells can replace old ones, increasing the unit’s longevity. Its design allows it to be repurposed or disassembled and recycled at the end of its life, which all adds up to creating less waste, further enhancing its lifecycle credentials.
The emphasis on monitoring IAQ in the last updates to Building Regulations Part F underlines the importance of creating healthier indoor environments, particularly in spaces where physical activity and occupancy rates are high. Commercial heat recovery with demandcontrolled ventilation, like the Sentinel Apex, demonstrates that it is possible to meet stringent IAQ standards while minimising energy consumption and enhancing occupant comfort.
SPOTLIGHT ON MANUFACTURING: DECARBONISATION AND THE SUSTAINABILITY AGENDA
With significant updates to Building Regulations in April 2024 putting emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability, construction industry professionals are taking a broader view of the products they select, typically looking at the lifecycle of products to choose those that have been designed in line with circular economy principles. Here, Tom Murray, UK Sales and Marketing Director at Polypipe Building Services, explains how manufacturers are supporting the industry to make strides in sustainability and decarbonise construction.
T he UK Government has big ambitions on net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, with interim targets set to reduce emissions by 50% by 2032 and 75% by 2037. Legislation is driving changes, such as recent updates to the Building Regulations, which were introduced in April 2024, to reduce the environmental impact of the sector. With around 33% of the total UK carbon emissions being generated by the construction industry, there is a clear need to ensure everyone in the sector is playing an active role in addressing this issue. As the largest buyer within the industry, the Government has led the way in driving change through its sustainable Construction
Strategy, Construction 2025, which provides a roadmap for improving sustainability in construction. This is reinforced through professional bodies such as the Low Energy Transformation Initiative, which originally aimed to influence policy relating to London’s built environment to meet netzero carbon and has now been extended to all UK zero-carbon policy and regulation.
This transition is putting building services under scrutiny to provide carbon data on products used in construction as specifiers seek more granular data to create a complete picture of a building, with manufacturers taking the lead.
Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) play a crucial part in this. EPDs
detail the environmental impact of a product. Created using Life Cycle Assessment methodology, which measures GHG emissions throughout the product’s life from raw material extraction through to transportation, manufacturing, application and end-oflife use, including recycling. Importantly, EPDs also offer a standardised baseline for product comparison and providing transparent, objective information about product carbon footprints so construction professionals can make more informed sustainability comparisons and decisions. Developers today are required to understand the full environmental impact of their projects. As such, we are seeing
Tom Murray is the UK Sales and Marketing Director at Polypipe Building Services
growing demand for EPDs as evidence of objective third-party-verified data regarding the performance of products. This, together with certifications such as BES6001, proves that materials in products have been responsibly sourced. These are now becoming an essential part of the construction industry’s journey towards carbon net zero, and we anticipate demand to continue to grow as EPDs become the credible way to directly compare products and contribute towards building certifications such as BREEAM and LEED. Sustainability accreditations like these can also support tender bids, so there’s a strong incentive for construction professionals to scrutinise every aspect of a build’s climate impact.
Evidence of this drive towards whole lifecycle carbon assessments and data gathering can be seen as many large companies and organisations within the sector are increasingly backing carbon assessments, including ARUP, WSP, Atkins, Lendlease and RIBA, to name a few.
At Polypipe, we’ve introduced a formal EPD programme to cover all products, in addition to sustainability initiatives such as a site recycling programme and a pre-fabrication service that reduces transport emissions and onsite waste. We’ve also invested in plant that incorporates more recycled materials and has reduced our power usage.
When it comes to drainage, solutions that are lighter and easier to transport and install, have a lower carbon footprint to process and can be reused multiple times without a significant reduction in pipe quality are likely to be favoured by developers who want to stay competitive.
As more EPDs become available from manufacturers, healthy market competition will encourage increased sustainability within our sector and support product development by providing benchmarks, which can be used to improve the environmental credentials of manufactured products.
New extruder at Polypipe incorporates more recycled materials and reduces power usage
A BRUTAL BEAUTY: EXPLORING THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF NOTTINGHAM’S HISTORIC WAR ROOMS
Since it was decommissioned in 1969, the mysterious 4563m 2 , Grade II-Listed Nottingham War Rooms has been stuck in time. With plans to be submitted by architect firm CPMG from its headquarters just a short distance from the War Rooms site, the previously derelict building is set to be transformed into a thriving mixed-use community hub, while showcasing the building’s incredible history alongside modern elements, as well as its potential in developing the local area and community that surrounds it.
Sara Harraway, Director and Interior Design Lead at CPMG, takes a deep dive into the past, present and future of the site – explaining how designing with the future in mind is key to continuing the legacy of the Nottingham War Rooms.
Historical background
Preservation design and the act of adding a new chapter to buildings that already have so much history is almost the pièce de résistance of an architect’s or interior designer’s career. It supports the notion that gets many into the industry to begin with – of leaving a legacy on the built environment around us.
The Nottingham War Rooms is a relic of the Cold War era and was originally constructed in 1953 as one of 11 UK Regional War Rooms (RWR) located across the country. These RWR’s were critical in the UK’s defence against the prevalent threats during that period, with each War Room effectively designed at the time to withstand nuclear attack.
Intended to originally house 50 staff and to help ensure continued governance of the country, all the necessary facilities were included, such as a canteen, dormitories and office spaces.
By the late 1950s, the realisation that any thermonuclear exchange would likely sever links with London and rendering autonomy to the regions, extensions were made to the site in 1963, which included the installation of a Lamson pneumatic tube messaging system, and it began to serve as a Regional Seat
of Government. With these advancements came the addition of a BBC Emergency Broadcasting Facility, which now acts as one of the UK’s best-preserved examples to date.
The Nottingham War Rooms, having never been used for its intended purpose, became a Government storage facility from the 1970s through to the 1990s. With many of its features and artefacts remaining undisturbed, its function and importance shines through regardless, with it being granted Grade II-Listed status in 2003, and a Historical Survey & Analysis of Significance being undertaken in 2013.
Design and preservation
Through the decades, the complex War Room’s structure has been uniquely preserved and largely untouched, offering incredible insight into elements of design and life from the 1950s and 1960s to anyone who has been lucky enough to visit this brutal beauty.
The recognition of the cultural and educational significance of the site is increasingly important, and our work at CPMG, alongside developer Hamilton Russell Harper and landowners Homes England, is fuelled by giving these elements of significance the recognition that they deserve. Our work is centred around transforming the War Rooms into a vibrant community hub and destination while preserving and exhibiting its features and artefacts of national significance.
Sara Harraway is a Director and Interior Design Lead at CPMG
The vision for redevelopment is characterised by the need for cohesivity between the past and present and preserving many of the original key features of the building. Elements throughout the building – such as the Lamson tube system, the bomb-blast doors, the untouched 1960s kitchen and its appliances and the incredible amount of nationally significant historical artefacts still at the site – cannot be lost to history and must be sensitively evaluated and incorporated into the design and work alongside the spaces that will be created for community use.
These spaces may include an exhibition space, a cafe, health and wellbeing amenities, co-working and conference facilities and the re-utilisation of the BBC broadcasting studio, at the heart of a new media suite, to serve as a recording studio, designed to meet the needs of the modern media profession.
Overcoming complexities
A delicate balance is required within the design of the War Rooms to ensure the preservation of historical features but also alignment with contemporary building standards. The transformation of the Cold War relic into a dynamic community space is not without its challenges.
Due to its originally intended use, the fortress-like structure lacks windows and hence natural light, as well as suffering from restricted accessibility. It will be a core aim for the design team to continually think outside of the box and use all space available, to create a modern facility with adequate light and optimal accessibility. An example of this is the re-utilisation of the ventilation shaft on site to accommodate a lift.
Consideration of the flow of visitors through a building is an underlying aspect of heritage design, with factors such as visual timelines and markers commonly used to promote the story of a location. As the building is adapted to serve a new purpose, these elements are not available for us to explore in the design as easily; instead, ‘heritages’ pockets’ throughout the building tell its story and support the coexistence of historical preservation and modern development.
Creating a space fit for modern use is just the first step to an effective regeneration of a site that has been left untouched for so long. The wider creation of a development of fully affordable homes on the 2.1 hectares of vacant land around the War Rooms will place the site at the heart of a wider community. These comprehensive plans promote the overall aim of the project to bring people together in a newly formed community with sustainable facilities and resources to support the wellbeing of its people.
All images: St. Cecelia’s CofE School
THE TRANSFORMATIVE ROLE OFFSITE CONSTRUCTION IS PLAYING IN RESHAPING EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENTS
With the demand for flexible, sustainable and rapid building solutions continuing to grow, offsite construction is now playing a key role in reshaping educational environments. Matt Goff, Managing Director of leading offsite manufacturer, Thurston Group, explores how offsite solutions can increase sustainability, accommodate evolving education needs and play a central part in meeting emerging technological challenges.
The education sector faces pressing challenges, from surging demand for school places to addressing ageing and unsafe infrastructure. The UK Government’s School Building Programme 1 is working to tackle these issues, identifying and replacing buildings at risk of structural failure. Among the most urgent concerns is the widespread use of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete 2 (RAAC), a material now recognised as unsafe in many schools.
Offsite construction offers a solution that aligns with the goals of the School Building Programme, providing safe, modern and high-quality buildings within significantly shorter timescales than traditional methods. From constructing additional classrooms to entire school blocks, offsite methods allow for quick expansion and minimal disruption, making them ideal for addressing these critical issues.
Sustainability and efficiency
For schools, colleges and universities striving to meet sustainability goals, offsite construction offers a highly effective solution. The controlled factory environment and precision planning inherent to offsite methods dramatically reduce waste,
with offcuts and surplus materials often being recycled or repurposed. This approach minimises the environmental impact while promoting a circular economy in construction.
According to the Supply Chain Sustainability School on Whole Life Carbon Guidance for Offsite Construction3, offsite projects can achieve:
A 30% reduction in emissions during the construction phase, including factory energy use
A 60% decrease in transport emissions for materials and personnel.
These benefits are further amplified through the use of innovative materials with a lower environmental impact, such as recycled steel and sustainably sourced timber. Offsite processes improve material usage, significantly reducing waste compared to traditional methods. Offsite construction also integrates energy-efficient technologies like photovoltaic cells, heat recovery systems and air-source heat pumps. These features support schools in reaching net-zero targets while reducing energy costs, delivering both environmental and financial benefits.
Myth-busting the offsite process
Offsite construction is often misunderstood as less comprehensive than traditional methods. However, the RIBA stages, the Farmer Review and concepts like Pre-Manufactured Value (PMV) have demonstrated that offsite construction delivers equal, if not superior, quality and efficiency. The precision and pre-manufacturing processes offer consistent results, from design to installation, without sacrificing adaptability or longevity.
Adapting to evolving educational needs
Educational needs are constantly evolving, driven by factors such as national and local policies or changing demographics. Offsite construction offers the flexibility to adapt to these shifts, ensuring that buildings remain suitable throughout their lifecycle. Modular buildings can be tailored to specific requirements, such as PRU or SEND facilities, accommodating bespoke features like wider corridors,
integrated ramps and soundproofed classrooms. They can also incorporate advanced facilities like ICT suites, science laboratories and sports halls. Offsite systems are designed for adaptability and performance. Buildings can be expanded, repurposed or reconfigured to meet changing needs while adhering to high-performance standards like BREEAM and net-zero carbon requirements. Prefabricated components are manufactured precisely, transported efficiently and installed quickly, minimising disruption to students and staff. This approach not only supports evolving educational demands from early years through to higher education but also aligns with long-term environmental and operational goals, delivering versatile and sustainable learning environments.
Real-world application:
St. Cecelia’s CofE School
When planning new classrooms or expanding existing facilities, minimising disruption to students and staff is essential. Offsite construction offers
a streamlined solution, with reduced timescales enabling buildings to be constructed and installed during term breaks or in parallel with school operations, significantly reducing interruptions to education.
At Thurston Group, we’ve successfully collaborated with schools seeking major campus upgrades. A recent project with St Cecilia’s CofE School in London involved delivering a two-storey modular classroom block seamlessly integrated into the existing campus. The building features three ICT suites, a fully fitted science laboratory, and seven classrooms.
Our time on site was just 13 weeks, even while the school remained operational. By manufacturing the building components off site in a controlled environment, we minimised dust, noise and disruption –ensuring a smoother experience for staff and students alike. Each classroom was equipped with heat recovery ventilation units, which extract warm air and use it to pre-heat incoming fresh air, preventing energy waste and creating an optimal learning environment.
Situated in a rural area, the project also addressed planning regulations by incorporating a brick slip and render exterior finish, blending harmoniously with existing buildings. This demonstrates how modular construction can provide cohesive, aesthetically pleasing solutions for rapidly expanding schools.
Beyond meeting immediate needs, modular projects like this offer valuable learning opportunities for young students. By showcasing the innovation behind offsite construction, schools can inspire the next generation to explore careers in modern methods of construction (MMC), addressing the skills gap in the construction industry.
The UK Government’s School Building Programme, alongside the RAAC crisis, has highlighted the need for safe, modern and rapidly deployable school buildings. Modular solutions are not only meeting this demand but are also driving growth in the MMC sector, paving the way for a sustainable and adaptable future for educational architecture.
As we look ahead, offsite construction will continue to play a transformative role in ensuring schools can meet increasing demand, provide safe learning environments and achieve their sustainability targets.
RISING TO THE CHALLENGE OF MAKING HISTORIC BUILDING FUTUREPROOF
A “once-in-a-generation” opportunity to reconceive the concept of a museum is entering a new phase of realisation with the completion of crucial enabling works supported by leading air movement specialist Gilberts.
The iconic historic Smithfield Market is being redeveloped as a new Museum of London, due to open in 2026. Before the re-imagining of the interior can take place, principal contractor PAYE Conservation has carried out detailed repairs and refurbishment to stabilise and weatherproof the 150-year-old building fabric, utilising specialist suppliers where necessary.
PAYE approached Gilberts to design and manufacture bespoke louvred lantern lights to replace the existing eight glazed louvred lights along all four sides of the main building, which had failed beyond economic repair.
The challenge was to devise a system that maintained the visual aesthetics of the historic rooftop, utilising the existing framework where possible whilst providing adequate free ventilation area for modern standards.
Gilberts’ technical experts designed and engineered the 288 louvres based around its WHF high-performance louvre with 50mm blades in RAL7022 ombra grey to integrate with the specific existing centres and align with the roof rafter above for the exterior. Gilberts’ VN75 natural ventilation damper with a modulating motor behind each WHF50 louvre will control the airflow when connected to the BMS. Internally, the louvre arrangement is finished with a further bespoke design of Gilberts’ WG louvre, powder coated to RAL7044 silk grey, inverted and set at 75mm pitch and featuring a flange top and bottom with flangeless sides to create a shadowline appearance mimicking the original architectural aesthetic.
The complete units deliver Class A weathertightness of 99%, with a net free ventilation area of 50%.
“The positioning of the original timber mullions compromised space for modern levels of airflow,” explained Gilberts’ Sales Director Ian Rogers. “Fitting a refined version of our WHF upside down, with our VN damper and a bespoke version of our WGF externally optimises the maximum free ventilation area in line with today’s requirements.”
“Coincidentally, the ventilation requirements for the museum are similar to those of the market – the need for fresh air without damp and draughts – except that instead of protecting and preserving delicate fruits and vegetables, we are preserving the city’s history and heritage. Gilberts played a fundamental role in helping us deliver that whilst maintaining the aesthetics of the atmospheric building. As a company, it has the technical expertise and manufacturing capability to engineer a bespoke, discreet, functional solution.”
Gilberts is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of louvre screening, which has been developed over the years to provide a comprehensive package to keep pace with the evolution of building design and structural interfaces, initially and as/if the building structure is altered. Options include standard and high-performance, factory- and site-assembled, and acoustic variants.
The All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club (aka Wimbledon), Papworth Hospital, the former home of Saga Record The Gramophone Works and Manchester’s iconic PrintWorks are among the venues to benefit from Gilberts’ louvres.
Founded over half a century ago and still family owned, Gilberts is the UK’s leading independent air movement engineer. It is unique in its ability to design, manufacture and test all products, including bespoke fabrications, in-house, to the extent it even designs and manufactures its own tools at its 140,000ft2 head office and production facility.
WEATHERCLAD GIVES CARDIFF MODULAR HOMES DURABLE EXTERIOR FINISH
Euroform’s wood-effect fibre cement shiplap planks have been used by @Home MMC to finish 57 modular homes, part of a new scheme of 154 transitional homes in Cardiff. With its natural timber look, WeatherClad is designed for external applications where durability and performance are required.
VENT-AXIA WINS H&V NEWS LOW CARBON IMPACT AWARD
Vent-Axia is celebrating winning the ‘Low Carbon Impact Award: Commercial or Industrial’ at the prestigious H&V News Awards. Committed to providing healthy indoor air while driving a low-carbon future, Vent-Axia received the accolade for paving the way in the ventilation sector when it comes to its decarbonisation with its groundbreaking manufacturing transformation, transitioning from virgin to recycled plastic. The company’s latest innovation involves the testing of recycled plastics to create its pioneering materials database which leads the sector, making it a worthy winner. The winners of the H&V News Awards were announced at a glittering ceremony held on 28th November at London’s Hilton Metropole.
www.vent-axia.com 0344 856 0590
Cardiff Living’s development Ffordd-y-Rhaffau in Grangetown, a partnership between Cardiff Council and Wates Group, provides temporary accommodation for 154 families while the council works with them to find a more permanent housing solution. The last few units were handed over to the council in October.
Built offsite by modular construction company @Home MMC using modern methods of construction, following groundworks, the energy-efficient, one- to four-bedroom homes were transported to site and lowered into position.
Euroform supplied WeatherClad in a range of colours to @Home MMC’s manufacturing facility. The planks are easy to work and fix. A comprehensive range of colour-matched profiles and trims were also provided.
Conformity assessed to BS EN 12467:2012+A2:2018, WeatherClad carries third-party BDA Agrément certification from KIWA. It has a BS EN 13501-1 Reaction to Fire classification of A2-s1,d0. Weatherclad is part of the range of Euroform’s Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) assessed products* WeatherClad can be purchased from Euroform in split pallets, helping customers to avoid waste. There is no minimum order. Euroform has an easy-touse online tool for calculating the number of boards required for projects: https://www.euroform.co.uk/ weatherclad-calculator/
www.euroform.co.uk
FOOTNOTE:
*000900042/1225 - Code for Construction Product Information (cpicode.org.uk)
BREATHING BUILDINGS’ NVHRE WINS AT ENERGY SAVING AWARDS
Breathing Buildings has scooped the Commercial Ventilation Product of the Year Award at last year’s prestigious Energy Saving Awards. The company won the award for its new NVHRe, Natural Ventilation with Heat Recycling and Heat Recovery (NVHRe), which is its latest addition to its award-winning range of Natural Ventilation with Heat Recycling (NVHR) systems. This is the second award Breathing Buildings has won for this innovative product; it also won the ‘Commercial/ Industrial Ventilation Product of the Year’ category at the HVR Awards 2024 in September. Breathing Buildings was presented the accolade at a glittering awards ceremony at The De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, London, on 6th December 2024.
NEW F. BALL SMOOTHING COMPOUND PROVIDES A* FINISH
F. Ball and Co.’s new high-flow, twocomponent smoothing compound, Stopgap 1400, has delivered a copybook finish at the newly-constructed Carew Academy for children with special educational needs in the London Borough of Sutton. All areas were primed using F. Ball’s P131 generalpurpose primer. Contractors then applied Stopgap 1400 in all areas (over 5000m 2 in total). F. Ball’s Styccobond F44 was used to install sheet vinyl in the corridors, hall, kitchens, WCs and some classrooms. In other classrooms, carpet tiles were installed with F. Ball’s Styccobond F41 carpet tile tackifier. F. Ball’s Styccobond F60 contact adhesive was used to install capping and coving at the intersections of floorcoverings and walls in wet areas.
