PSBJ November 2013 by Red Hut Media Ltd

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November 2013

Collaborative vision Responsible construction scheme scores highly

Intelligent hospitals a smart approach to controlling energy costs

Managing leisure risk Solutions to change attitudes to outdoor play

Future-proof housing Plan ahead with functional and aesthetic fittings

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Alderman Knight School has recently completed a significant building project which has enhanced the learning environment for its pupils, allowing them to access state-of-the-art facilities across the school, from specialist classrooms to outdoor play equipment. See page 8.

Welcome. . . Welcome to the November issue of Public Sector Build Journal.

Editor Hannah Frackiewicz hannah@mixedmediainfo.com Managing Director Sam Ball sam@mixedmediainfo.com Advertising Sales Steve Gull steve@mixedmediainfo.com Tom Murray-Scott tom@mixedmediainfo.com Bobby Stoneman bobby@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 320020 www.mixedmediainfo.com www.psbj.co.uk

The comfort and safety of building occupants is of paramount importance in the public sector. From improving standards of living to maintaining better learning environments, architects and suppliers are continually striving to find new ways of enhancing the user’s experience. In November’s issue, PSBJ takes a look at a number of environments where the welfare of building users is at their core. In this month’s edition, Health & Safety looks at the evolution of matting within the education sector. As well as providing a safe entrance for pupils and staff, matting systems must also be specified for areas where users are at risk of slips and falls, such as dining areas and wet leisure surfaces. Here, Plastic Extruders provides an insight into the correct specification in order to offer optimum safety. Elsewhere, PSBJ’s Bathrooms focus sees Mira Showers’ Roger Crabb consider the challenges of designing a future-proof home, without stigmatising the occupant. Taking the Lifetime Homes standard into account, Mira outlines how the detailed criteria can be met. Also in this issue, PSBJ’s lead focus profiles the outstanding refurbishment of Alderman Knight School – an education facility to accommodate students aged 4 to 16 with Special Educational Needs. When threatened with closure, Gloucestershire County Council embarked on a fast-track plan to completely remodel the building. Now featuring a coherent layout and improved learning environment, the school is setting a precedent for existing facilities in desperate need of revival. I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget you can revisit the latest features and top products through PSBJ’s state-of-the-art app. To download your version free of charge, simply scan the QR code on the front cover of this month’s magazine.

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

Contents

06 News A round-up of the latest industry news including charity events, awarded contracts, show partnerships and responses to timely construction announcements.

08 Upfront In order to avoid closure, Alderman Knight School has completely remodeled, extended and refurbished its existing facility to offer students an enhanced learning environment.

14 Education

18 Talking Point

22 Landscaping

Many manufacturers offer modern methods of construction and innovative design to provide aesthetic, practical and high performance solutions to reduce sound and disturbance.

Property maintenance specialist, Novus Property Solutions considers the significant costs and time attached to the introduction of the Official Journal of the European Union procurement rules.

South Lakeland District Council approached Marshalls to discuss the needs of a regeneration scheme, which included planned improvements for paving and the reduction of dangerous NOx gasses.

16 Health & Safety

20 Drainage

24 HVAC

Safety in schools is a hot topic and one that drives strong emotions. For children and staff through to parents and visitors, health and safety is of paramount concern, according to Plastic Extruders.

A number of Hauraton drainage systems have been specified as part of a major phased development for York University, including FASERFIX and RECYFIX SLOTTED channels.

Martin Passingham, DX Product Manager at Daikin UK, looks at how todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highly sophisticated energy efficient climate control systems can reduce whole life costs significantly.

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Public Sector Build Journal

42 36

28 Healthcare

34 Energy Management

Ordnance Survey reveals how accurate geographic information can help healthcare organisations improve their planning and redesign their services.

Healthcare facilities are among the most energy-intensive buildings in the world, therefore a smart approach is needed to control rising energy costs and maintain patient and staff comfort.

31 Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms Mira Showers considers how the construction and layout of bathrooms can adequately meet the aesthetic and functional demands of present and future users.

32 Housing The build and uplift of housing areas is often subject to financial and sustainable criteria, but suppliers have recognised this trend is set to stay. Landscaping specialist Kilsaran explains more.

The

36 HOMES Preview Taking place from 20th-21st November, Homes 2013 is an event dedicated to asset management, repairs and maintenance, retrofit, sustainability and supply of affordable homes.

38 Leisure

40 Product Showcase

Many organisations in the public sector are now pushing the boundaries when it comes to designing thought-provoking play areas that deliver managed risk.

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

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News a levy from its suppliers, based on a percentage of the total value of work they procure through its framework. After deducting its operational costs, any surplus is then distributed to LHC members annually, in proportion to the value of their projects with LHC throughout that year.

Balfour Beatty leads North West sustainability drive Balfour Beatty, the international infrastructure group, joined eleven other major UK contractors last month to demonstrate to over 170 supply chain businesses in the North West the importance of embedding sustainable practices into their business models. The Supply Chain Sustainability School event held at Manchester Town Hall was addressed by Chris Whitehead, Balfour Beatty’s Group Head of Sustainability, key UK customers, the Highways Agency and United Utilities, as well as supply chain partners, Reconomy. The purpose of the Balfour Beatty-led event was to recruit new supply chain members to the School, and help increase their skills and competence, in order to drive sustainability forward in the construction industry.

University unveils new student accommodation Uliving and the University of Essex has announced the official opening of The Meadows, a new student accommodation scheme in Colchester. Uliving at Essex, is a consortium made up of Bouygues Development, housing provider Derwent Living and investment company Equitix. The scheme is part of the University’s commitment to providing high quality on-campus accommodation. As part of this investment Uliving will also manage the existing accommodation at University Quays for a 50 year period. The new student complex situated off Boundary Road, provides an additional 648 student bedrooms for the Colchester Campus and is made up of 19 town houses for 228 students plus en suite cluster flats for a further 420 students. The scheme, which includes a mix of concrete, steel and timber frames, was designed by architects Lewis & Hickey with construction carried out by Bouygues UK, beginning in early summer 2012.

Consortium members to share in £1.3m surplus Members of public sector procurement consortium, LHC, have shared surpluses of £1.3m as part of the not-for-profit organisation’s revenue-sharing scheme. The specialist consortium provides independent technical advice and construction procurement frameworks to local authorities, social landlords, schools and other public sector bodies across the UK. In the financial year 2012-2013, its frameworks were used 214 times by 127 customers on a total of 389 projects. In addition, LHC calculates that its members have saved £18.6m in efficiency savings by opting for a pre-established framework rather than running lengthy procurement exercises themselves. LHC generates its income by collecting

Public Sector Build Journal

Willmott Dixon wins its largest P21+ contract Willmott Dixon has secured its largest project under the P21+framework with the appointment by County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT) for the £20m refurbishment and extension

of operating theatres at one of its hospitals. The project will provide new operating theatres at Darlington Memorial Hospital, with the final number and configuration of theatres to be agreed as part of the full business case now underway. It will also include improvements to the recovery suite, the day surgery facilities and the associated post and pre-operative ward areas. Anthony Dillon, Managing Director for Willmott Dixon in the North said: “Willmott Dixon will utilise its national experience of working within a busy hospital environment to help CDDFT realise its plan for improved facilities at Darlington. The focus will be to ensure that construction work does not disrupt the hospital’s day-to-day activities.” A phased programme of work will be used to minimise disruption to clinical services and ensure operating theatres remain open throughout the project. Work is expected to get underway in early 2014, with completion in 2016.

Novus completes major school extension Property maintenance specialist Novus Property Solutions has built two brand new extensions at a first school in Leek, giving teachers and pupils a third more space in six classrooms, relieving them from cramped conditions. Other elements of the project included the replacement of roofing on the rear elevation of the adjoining main school block, the renewal of rainwater goods and the removal of two disused chimneys. Novus began the work, worth £290,000, in May and completed it at the end of August. Representatives from the Stoke-onTrent-based firm attended a public event attended by Leek Town Mayor John Fisher at Westwood First School, on Westwood Road, to celebrate the completion of the works. Those attending the event were given the chance to look around the new extension

News during the school’s autumn fair, which aimed to raise funds for Douglas Macmillan Hospice. Novus began the school’s fundraising with a donation of £100.

Scotland's largest new town starts on site

The agreed contracts with the clients of Day and Bell, CJ Delemere and Drivers & Norris will bring free cavity wall insulation to over 160 homes in Haringey and the surrounding areas and are expected to save residents in the area a collective total of over £34,000 from their annual energy bills. Katie Swain, ECO Manager at Sustain, said: “We are delighted to be working with private management companies, continuing our excellent relationships from our successful SmartHeat programme. Our Cavity Wall Insulation Campaign has facilitated agreements across the country, and we now have the capacity in place to save hundreds of thousands of pounds from fuel bills nationwide.”

Small builders key to solving housing crisis Work is now underway to create Scotland’s largest new town, Chapelton, five miles south of Aberdeen, following a founding ceremony last month. The £8m infrastructure work, required to service the development, is being carried out by local firm WM Donald. Developed by Elsick Development Company (EDC) Chapelton will be an 8000 home, £2bn town with 40% green space and a focus on sustainable community living. Over 100 guests attended the ceremony to witness the unveiling of a cairn seat in the gardens of Elsick House, which will become a civic space at the centre of the town. The cairn seat was created by Perth-based artist David F Wilson, who used reclaimed materials from the site to create a landmark design. Those attending each added a stone to the cairn to mark the occasion. Speaking at the ceremony Aberdeenshire Provost, Jill Webster said: “Chapleton is an exciting new concept for Aberdeenshire and I am pleased to see the first steps being taken to turn the plans into reality.”

New homes set the benchmark for London Sustain, one of the UK’s leading sustainability companies, is working with private management companies to insulate blocks of flats nationwide. Sustain are currently insulating in Haringey to bring tens of thousands of pounds worth of savings to the London borough, as well as thousands of tonnes of carbon savings.

Encouraging more small builders into the construction market is one of the key ways of addressing the housing crisis, the Conservative Party conference was told last month. London needs to build hundreds of thousands of homes over the next decade to keep pace not only with the existing backlog but also London’s growing population, which is estimated to top over nine million by 2021. At a London Council’s fringe event at Conservative conference, Cllr Ravi Govindia said that supporting more small businesses into the market, for instance through the tax system, could help create more homes. Cllr Ravi Govindia said: “London’s boroughs support developers both large and small, but it’s frankly astonishing that just 27 companies are responsible for around 70% of the housing starts in London. Just 20 years ago around two thirds of housing was built by companies employing fewer than 500 people. Encouraging more small businesses into the market would change this and so deliver more homes.”

ecoSHOWCASE announces new media partner Mixed Media Information, publisher of FC&A and PSBJ magazines has recently agreed to become a leading media partner for Framework Media’s ecoSHOWCASE green building roadshows. Framework’s Managing Director Steve

Jones comments: “This relationship will obviously help us bring ecoSHOWCASE to a wider audience, whilst also providing our existing audience with high quality content, knowledge and advice on sustainable construction issues.” Each event is complemented by a series of authoritative educational seminars, focusing on key sustainability issues, government directives and legislation. Topics this autumn include ‘What is BIM’ and ‘The Green Deal Update’. Remaining events this year include Leeds on 5th November, London 28th November and Cardiff 3rd December, while a full program for 2014 has been announced, which includes Manchester, Nottingham, Newcastle, Twickenham, Doncaster, Southampton, Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds, London and Cardiff.

Yacht challenge sponsored by Atag Heating Fine weather, perfect sailing conditions and an excellent turn out by local yacht clubs ensured that the 12th St Wilfrid’s Hospice ‘Nab’ Challenge, sponsored by Chichesterbased boiler distributor, ATAG Heating UK and organised by the Inn-Shore Cruising Club, was another resounding success. This popular and unique event has raised over £160,000 for the Hospice and organisers are confident that this year’s event will add thousands more when the final total is calculated. “This is the third year that we have sponsored this fantastic event,” said Phil Bell, ATAG Managing Director. “We’ll be supporting it again next year, hopefully raising even more funds for a most worthy charity.” The Challenge took place over a 12 nautical mile course from a start line just outside Chichester harbour, around the Nab Tower and back and attracted entrants from sailing clubs throughout Sussex and beyond.

Public Sector Build Journal

Upfront

A safe car parking scheme has improved traffic flow and provided clear, designated spaces

Remodel reaps benefits Alderman Knight School has an excellent reputation, with a highly skilled and dedicated staff team who work together to ensure all children experience an exciting curriculum. The school has recently completed a significant building project which has enhanced the learning environment for its pupils, allowing them to access state-of-the-art facilities across the school, from specialist classrooms to outdoor play equipment.

t was less than seven years ago that Alderman Knight School had been threatened with closure; a school for students aged 4-16 with Special Educational Needs (SEN), the building was at a stage where it wasn’t meeting the needs of the school, both in terms of space and facilities. The consequences of closure would have seen pupils having to travel further afield while competing for limited places – more so than in a mainstream environment. Instead, the decision was taken by Gloucestershire County Council to completely remodel, extend and refurbish the existing school. Building contractor Speller Metcalfe, alongside Vitruvius Project Management, was awarded the

Public Sector Build Journal

£5m contract to improve existing facilities following a successful competitive tender through the Gloucestershire County Council Framework.

Project design and added value The new Alderman Knight School is now Ofsted Outstanding, and has seen pupil numbers more than double from 50 to 114 – with places highly oversubscribed. The building has moved from a dark, cramped space with difficult circulation problems to a light, bright and inspiring learning environment. The scheme achieved BREEAM Excellent and was also shortlisted for ‘Project of the Year’ at the South West Built Environment Awards, 2013.

Speller Metcalfe developed a collaborative programme alongside their chosen team from Quattro Design Architects, the National Design Consultancy and O’Brien & Price (Stoud) to create a sensitive programme that allowed construction to mirror the needs of the school, but remain flexible to changes.

Upfront The challenging programme, alongside the team’s wealth of education experience, was a key driver to securing the contract.

A welcome entrance From the offset Speller Metcalfe brought value engineering savings, reusing the original structure which had been initially planned for demolition. Following enabling works, developments to the school included two newly-extended classroom buildings and extensive remodelling of the existing building to provide a more coherent layout and an improved learning environment – doubling the internal floor space to 2600m². Previously there was no established entrance with a simple portable building housing the reception team, but the new light, glazed reception feature now provides a sense of arrival. However, there were initial difficulties in the design and installation of the glass atrium over the roof. Speller Metcalfe was limited by the programme timescale and as such were not able to strip out the new roof before the design and manufacture of the atrium. Consequently, the design team had to develop an innovative system whereby the flex and deflection of the steel work could be determined ahead of stripping out works in order that it could be procured and manufactured ahead of installation – with the resulting atrium delivered just in programme time.

The building has moved from a dark, cramped space with difficult circulation problems to a light, bright and inspiring learning environment

Internally, the build houses a new administrative area, hall, kitchen and dining facilities, alongside an ICT suite, specialist Design & Technology classrooms and a Life Skills Apartment which has been created to help older pupils prepare themselves for independent living. Externally, landscaping incorporates enclosed habitat areas, play and seating areas and a safe car parking scheme which has improved traffic flow and provided clear, designated spaces – particularly for pupils who require disabled access close to the school entrance. Through strategic planning and early engagement with specialist sub-contractors at design stage, Speller Metcalfe’s design

team has incorporated modern methods of construction to deliver a fast-track project that avoided timely delays during quite a harsh winter period, which otherwise would have brought the project to a standstill. An example was the use of a lightweight Metsec and steel frame over traditional masonry construction, which has also provided the school with a reusable building at reduced cost with the added flexibility of facilitating any future changes. Other reusable elements include the Firestone roof which compromises recycled shredded rubber tyres; overall, 87% of waste was recycled and through choice of materials the low energy performance building will be highly recyclable at the end of its life. Any new materials used in the build came from manufacturers with BES6001, and/or ISO14001 accreditation, and timber suppliers with FSC or PEFC certification. Carbon data, energy and water usage was monitored throughout, with monthly targets and energy displays set up in reception for pupils.

Sustainable design

Speller Metcalfe was limited by the programme timescale and as such were not able to strip out the new roof before the design and manufacture of the atrium

PV roof panels were also installed, with the initial 80m² increased to 100m² through value engineering. Roof lights exploit natural lighting and ventilation, with mechanical ventilation limited to areas with mandatory requirements. Due to the high requirements of IT provision, phase change cooling technology was used in the IT hub as opposed to comfort cooling – a low energy cooling and ventilation system that radically reduces running costs. The low energy building achieved airtightness levels that are over 60% more efficient than Part L Building Regulations, with Proclima Airtightness Membrane used throughout. However, following

Public Sector Build Journal

Upfront

Originally targeted to reach BREEAM Very Good at design stage, the project achieved BREEAM Excellent post completion

construction of the initial Key State 3 & 4 building, it was decided that the following KS1 & 2 classroom block should incorporate slight design alterations, as from a buildability point of view, placing the membrane within the steel structure had proved difficult – particularly in achieving airtightness levels. This lesson was applied throughout the rest of the scheme as well as to future projects for Speller Metcalfe.

Responsible construction

10 Public Sector Build Journal

Speller Metcalfe’s design team has incorporated modern methods of construction to deliver a fast-track project

Originally targeted to reach BREEAM Very Good at design stage, the project achieved BREEAM Excellent post completion – at no additional cost. Through value engineering, the team was able to expand the amount of PV roof panelling and submit daylight calculations, as well as provide the school with an additional vocational classroom and significant expansion of the Life Skills Apartment floor area – all of which led to additional credits. The project was also awarded an additional BREEAM innovation credit for responsible construction practise, receiving four consecutive Considerate Constructors Scheme scores of 36/40 (based on the older rating scheme), placing it as an ‘exceptional’ site in the UK’s top 5% of Considerate Constructors schemes. Alderman Knight School was also unique in that the school’s staff and pupils were highly involved from the start of the design process. This format continued throughout the two year design and construction

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Upfront

A central atrium provides the main entrance and exit points, a design that makes navigating around the building easy for any visitor

The low energy building achieved airtightness levels that are over 60% more efficient than Part L Building Regulations

12 Public Sector Build Journal

Because of the special needs nature of the pupils, the team worked particularly closely with the school to ensure students were comfortable with both contractor’s presence on site and any noise disruption. Speller Metcalfe’s H&S Manager even learnt Signalong – a sign supporting system to help those with communication difficulties – which helped the team engage with pupils who had difficulties with verbal communication.

Post completion The design has proved exemplary in both its style and function – from a school with no previous circulation, it now has a sense of purpose. The building reuse has been a transformation of unrecognisable proportions, offering a well-ventilated, naturally lit environment that caters to the needs of a modern school while reusing a large proportion of the existing building. Following post-completion questionnaires to staff, Governors, parents, pupils and neighbours, 95% agreed or strongly agreed

that the new school has improved the learning environment and 97% agreed or strongly agreed that the design of the new school has met expectations. “To say I was blown away by the standard of facilities is an understatement,” commented a new parent in response to the finished build. Overall, Alderman Knight School has proved a special and unique project with the client and school clearly benefiting from such an efficient and commendable scheme, which completed a month early and within budget. Headteacher Clare Steel praised the new development saying: “The impact of the buildings on the wellbeing of my staff, our pupils and their families is immeasurable. The classrooms are bright, light, calming and simply inspiring, the outside environment is fun, safe but exciting. This will give my children the very best possible school experience and opportunities to achieve their full potential.”

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period, crossing the usual client/contractor boundaries to become an integrated, collaborative vision. Within this, Speller Metcalfe went to great lengths to work in partnership with both the school and neighbouring Gloucester College to deliver site visits, work experience placements and apprenticeships. In particular a series of workshops were put in place, including bricklaying, carpentry, plumbing and Health & Safety. Speller Metcalfe’s Health & Safety Manager even went so far as to learn Signalong – a form of sign-supported communication for people with learning difficulties – helping the team to communicate with pupils of all abilities both during assemblies and during design meetings.

www.spellermetcalfe.com

Externally, landscaping incorporates enclosed habitat areas

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Education

Oakmeadow is one of two schools by Architype designed using Passivhaus principles

A sense of learning

absorb noises in rooms of high frequency or where there is a high level of background disturbance, such as in auditoriums and large meeting rooms, where sound reduction is vital. The system is available in hundreds of colours, textures and patterns with foldaway joints. These allow the cladding material to display a completely unbroken surface or have visible anodised aluminium joints for aesthetic appeal. Another company making huge strides in the UK with cost-effective acoustics in Danish manufacturer Troldtekt which offers natural acoustic tiles and panels. Their benefits include high sound absorption, high durability, natural breathability and cost life cycle performance. As the panels are made from 100% natural wood fibres mixed with cement, their sustainability was recently recognised with certification at Silver level within the Cradle to Cradle concept. The acoustic panels are widely used in many different types of project and are particularly popular in schools. For example, they were recently specified by Architype architects for two Passivhaus schools in Wolverhampton where they make a major contribution to comfort and learning. The panels not only offer high performance sound absorption in the study areas, which need to be quiet, calm and healthy, but also in the sports hall and play areas which are traditionally very noisy.

There are many factors which have an impact on childrens' learning and behaviour. Apart from the obvious such as quality of teaching and the facilities, two of the most important influences are sound and light. Today, schools are enjoying some interesting and innovative solutions.

t is a well-known fact that people study better in peace and quiet when there is a minimum of noise and distraction. It is particularly true of school children, and welldocumented by research, that their ability to learn is directly influenced by good or bad acoustics. For example, Bronzaft and McCarthy (1975) conducted a study which indicated that New York City students were hampered in their reading skills by elevated noise levels. Students on the side of the school building, 70 metres from an elevated subway track, lagged behind their peers on the quieter side of the building between as much as three months to a year. In 1986 Cohens, Evans, Krantz and Stokols found that some children from noisy schools had higher blood pressure, less

14 Public Sector Build Journal

cognitive task success and greater feelings of helplessness. The students gave up and were more easily distracted from the task at hand. (Source: University of Georgia: Environmental Influence on Student Behaviour and Achievement). Fortunately, there are many systems and products available to help reduce noise and its effect. Many manufacturers now offer modern methods of construction and innovative design to provide aesthetic, practical and high performance solutions. For example, the Italian manufacturer PL, part of the Abet Laminati Group, has developed Silentwall. This is a range of interior cladding comprising vertical and horizontal panels of high pressure laminate on an aluminium fixing system. This innovative panelling is designed to

Structura+Kalwall installed at the University of East Anglia

Education Architype Director Jonathan Hines comments: “Oakmeadow is one of two schools we have designed using Passivhaus principles to offer radically low energy consumption together with optimised comfort for children and staff. We are convinced that designing to an energy target is the most logical and effective route to achieving carbon reductions. Troldtekt acoustic ceilings are one of the solutions which have helped to meet our design and performance objectives – in this case optimising the acoustic environment using a natural and beautiful product.”

Acoustic performance The benefits of acoustic tiles and panels include high sound absorption, high durability, natural breathability and cost life cycle performance

meeting rooms through to restaurants, school halls and shops. The class 1 firerated lightweight panels can be quickly and easily installed on walls and ceilings with the minimum of disruption and with the immediate and dramatic result of improving sound quality, while reducing the background noise. As we know, daylighting radically changes building envelope design and the ambience of interiors. It positively influences people, affects how they behave in their environment, changes their circadian rhythm and improves their well-being. In schools, for example, diffused daylighting in particular has a calming effect and marked influence on pupil learning and their behaviour. For example, the stunning space illustrated was designed by LSI architects as part of their work at the INTO University of East Anglia. It is a dramatic example of how the unique Kalwall translucent system is used in colleges and schools to diffuse natural daylight through walls or roofs to create the ideal ambience for study, learning and leisure.

Although there are many ways of introducing daylight into a building, ranging from sophisticated glazing and polycarbonate systems, Kalwall is reckoned to be the most highly insulating diffuse light transmitting system available and is widely specified for enveloping every type of building.

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Yet another company offering a creative and innovative second fix solution for good acoustics is Soundtect, with its collection of attractive and tactile three-dimensional soft fabric acoustic panels. Available in 11 different designs, these are manufactured from 100% recycled materials, such as carpet and are themselves 100% recyclable. The panels range in size between 450 and 600mm, combining form, function, design and acoustic performance to create a fun and lively new backdrop. With proven certification to reduce sound reverberation and a noise reduction coefficient of up to 0.95, they have already proved popular in areas where noise pollution is of concern, from office

www.abetuk.com www.soundtect.com www.troldtekt.co.uk www.structura-uk.com/kalwall

Filtered daylight Even on cloudy days, the calm and attractive interior is flooded with museum quality daylighting, eliminating the stark contrasts of glare and shadow and without the need for blinds or curtains. This means that the consumption of artificial lighting is reduced and, because the system is highly insulating, energy costs are reduced. U values as low as 0.28W/m2K, equivalent to a solid wall or roof, can be achieved by including translucent Lumira aerogel insulation within the panels.

Danish manufacturer Troldtekt offers natural acoustic tiles and panels

Public Sector Build Journal 15

Healthcare Health & Safety

The education for safety

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Safety in schools is a hot topic and one which drives strong emotions. For children and staff through to parents and visitors, health and safety is of paramount concern. Architectural journalist Gideon Sykes examines flooring solutions for enhanced safety in the school environment.

ceramic tiles and broken a leg. Here it is vital to remove as much water as possible and retain a drier surface. Again, the best cost effective, high performance solution is to lay slip resistant matting – open grid matting, with raised profile underbars which help drain water away while the embossed surface remains relatively dry and highly slip resistant. Heronrib, for example, is a widely used and very effective solution comfortable to stand on while anti-bacterial and anti-fungal additives ensure it is hygienic for bare feet. Another area of concern is the service side of schools, particularly kitchens where the risk of slipping on grease, oil or dropped foodstuffs can be serious. Here again, different types of safety matting are available ranging from those specially designed with an aggressive non-slip surface for frying areas to those with an open grid which help drain spillages and provide a safe walking surface. In some areas, such as behind serving counters or in workshops it may be desirable to install anti-fatigue matting which relives standing and working stress. Even schools with flat roofs will now require safe walkways, such as open grid matting to provide safe and permanently weatherproof access for maintenance.

www.plastexmatting.com

It is vital to remove as much water as possible and retain a dry surface

t is the responsibility of the floorcovering manufacturer to help by minimising problems and providing solutions. Plastic Extruders, one of the UK’s leading matting manufacturers, is a good example of this. Like any responsible manufacturer, they are concerned about products and testing not only to exceed laboratory standards but, much more relevantly, to meet the exacting performance requirements of the product in practice, believing that slip-resistance, comfortable standing and exclusion of external dirt are among the keys to a safer and better life underfoot. This particularly applies to reducing slips and trips which in the UK are responsible for about 20% of all recorded accidents. In schools, the most important focus has

16 Public Sector Build Journal

to be on entrances, wet areas, such as changing-rooms and pools, and kitchens or service areas. The traditional piece of coir mat is no longer used at entrances and is considered an ineffective way of stopping dirt, germs and water from entering a premises. Today, it is all about reducing the ingress by using high performance primary and/or secondary barriers of matting which will clean, scrape and dry shoes, keep entrances slip free and pristine while reducing maintenance costs. Water is a different matter, especially in changing rooms and around pools where specifiers often get the floor surface wrong. By definition, design is driven by aesthetics but aesthetics doesn’t count for much when your pupil has slipped on those ‘pretty’

Today, ingress is reduced by using high performance primary and/or secondary barriers of matting

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Public Sector Build Journal 17

Talking Point

Enforcing structure As companies need to recover their application costs, they are being forced to increase their prices, so work is costing clients billions more than it could do with leaner, less bureaucratic procedures

Alan Nixon, Director at Novus Property Solutions, looks at how the introduction of the Official Journal of the European Union procurement rules in 2003 has cost UK industry billions and has led companies to devote tens of thousands of working hours in the attempt to maintain turnover through the economic downturn.

rom battleships to paper clips to construction projects – the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) procurement rules cover all high value public procurement opportunities and are intended to create a level playing field and a single market for businesses across the EU.

The rules do for the most part meet their purpose for jobs worth more than the £4,348,350 threshold. Because this value is aggregated, contractors can often be bidding for a smaller share of the work and therefore a smaller share of the total, which would not otherwise have met the

threshold and required the OJEU process. Additionally, many clients have spread OJEU practices to works that fall below the threshold in pursuit of best practice despite there being no legal requirement for them to use the process for these works. The OJEU process, including the prequalification questionnaire (PQQ) along with optional interviews, presentations and site visits, may seem to be a very thorough way of choosing the right contractor, but it can also act as a barrier – often leading to delays in clients being able to action investment plans and increasing their costs, taking away from their investment budget. Despite the government attempting to standardise the bulk of a PQQ through PAS91, which provides a set of specific questions for construction contractors as compiled by various members of a steering group, this has not been successful, as many organisations still want to do things their own way and create bespoke criteria, making submissions more demanding to compile.

Project portal

Many clients have spread OJEU practices to works that fall below the threshold in pursuit of best practice

18 Public Sector Build Journal

The application process can cause delays in projects coming to site – wasting valuable time for all parties. Because non-OJEU public projects are not regulated, clients are able to select a route to the market and enterprising providers have created hundreds of internet portals for them to choose from. Whilst opportunities above the threshold are all listed in one place under the same

Talking Point

Alan Nixon is a Director of Novus Property Solutions and has spent much of his 26 years in the industry leading the procurement of new contracts for the fourth generation family-owned company. Servicing a multitude of both private and public sector funded client organisations, he has vast experience of the bidding process and the pitfalls of tender procurement.

Whilst opportunities above the threshold are all listed in one place under the same rules, lower value contracts must be sought out from hundreds of sources

opportunity – the combined spend of the contractors on bidding for these contracts throughout the year could be about £40m. Novus estimate they apply for just one in 15 opportunities available to them, so multiply this £40m by 15 and the construction industry is spending at least £600m on bidding under OJEU annually. But it is not just construction firms who bid under the rules – other industries must comply too. If construction represents 10% of the total value of OJEU opportunities then the overall figure per year spent just on bidding for opportunities would be at least £6bn, without adding in the procurers cost of advice and resourcing their internal contractor selection process. This is £6bn which is spent without any work being done or without any services being provided and which excludes what the client has spent on the process themselves. As companies need to recover their application costs, they are being forced to increase their prices, so work is costing clients billions more than it could do with leaner, less bureaucratic procedures.

Overhauling the process While the rules may have their downsides, they do offer a consistent way for clients to select the right contractor for their works and the theory behind the process is good. But what can be done to improve the process of applying for contracts under the OJEU procurement rules? To save time for contractors, one defined

application format could be used for every bid, but the counter argument for this is that it would restrict choice for clients and restrict opportunities for companies. Why? Those who were the best at filling in forms would get the job, but this would not guarantee that they would necessarily be the best one for the job. Standardising requirements by using the PAS91 questionnaire for elements of every questionnaire, so some information is automatically carried over between applications, would reduce the need to input the same information time after time. Launching a single government-run website and portal for all non-OJEU public opportunities to be advertised and for all OJEU and non-OJEU public opportunities to be submitted through would mean time spent searching for lower-value projects would be cut, repetitive elements could be pre-populated and only one registration would be necessary. Having all the opportunities in one place would also facilitate the implementation of a single notification system, so contractors receive alerts when any suitable OJEU or non-OJEU public opportunity arises. In summary, it is not a question of replacing what is done now but one of refining it. While the rules currently in place do offer a fair and consistent way of procuring, there are effective improvements which could be made to ensure a more time and cost-effective process.

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rules, lower value contracts must be sought out from hundreds of sources. The lack of structure here means time and money is unnecessarily spent when registering and searching for lower value contracts to bid for, and the lack of standardisation means that often unnecessarily over-complex processes are applied to this type of contract. Some companies, including Novus Property Solutions, have now employed whole teams to deal with the OJEU bidding process and everything it involves. At Novus, a team of nine staff write and deal with the OJEU procurement bids. The forms they complete are ostensibly repetitive but subtly different each time, so each application must be bespoke, which means yet more time is consumed. Novus estimates that between 10,000 and 12,000 manpower hours are spent by their staff annually just filling out PQQs. Because opportunities can be applied for by hundreds of contractors, and in the end either a handful of contractors, or just one contractor, is appointed, clearly this is very costly to the industry. Novus spends over £1 million on bidding under the OJEU rules yearly. If each potential contractor bidding for one contract is taken into consideration per project – typically 40 firms will apply for one

www.novussolutions.co.uk

Public Sector Build Journal 19

Drainage

Hauraton channels campus drainage As part of the scheme a lake was created along the southern boundary of the development

As early as 1617 permission to establish a university at York was recorded, although it would take another 343 years before university status was to be granted in 1960. Opened in 1963 and located in three historic buildings, the new university had just 230 students. In less than 50 years York has become one of the top ten universities in the United Kingdom for teaching and research with more than 15,000 students.

20 Public Sector Build Journal

Goodricke and Langwith including student accommodation and a sports village. The new buildings on the East Campus are designed in clusters, each cluster being separated from the next with a sensitively designed landscaped green space. A roadway and paths connect each cluster with the next and the Heslington West Campus.

Environmental consideration Being situated to the South of the Badger Hill residential area and Kimberlow Hill with its views of York Minster, the Heslington East site slopes away gently from these hills down to the flat lands of the Vale of York. One of the tasks architect’s Building Design Partnership (BDP) were asked to accomplish by the University, was to produce a plan that would be environmentally sensitive to the local geography. This meant any Sustainable Urban Drainage Scheme had to prevent rainwater from roofs and hard surfaces

uring the 60s and through to the late 90s the University of York went through a phased development establishing eight Colleges and other facilities on their Heslington West site. To maintain its high rank status as one of the top universities in the world, the University authority decided to upgrade and expand to meet the national higher education agenda and help drive the regional and local economy. In addition to improvements to the existing Heslington West Campus, a 117 hectare site just east of the existing facility was to be developed. The new £750m, 65 hectare Heslington East Campus is now well underway with phases 1 and 2 already commissioned, although it will be 2020 before the approved Master Plan nears completion. The development so far includes; The Ron Cooke Hub Building, four new departmental buildings – The Catalyst, Law & Management, Computer Science, Theatre, Film & Television, two colleges –

A roadway and paths connect each cluster with the next and the Heslington West Campus

Drainage

The new £750m, 65 hectare Heslington East Campus is now well underway with phases 1 and 2 already commissioned

Durable components The Sustainable Urban Drainage Scheme, devised by Arup Limited, included the control of rainwater from roofs via downpipes into a series of buried, stepped shallow culverts made from two sizes of FASERFIX SUPER channel fitted with solid ductile iron covers. Surface water drainage with ductile iron gratings were provided in the same channel runs where channels crossed paved footpaths or asphalted areas. Pairs of FASERFIX SUPER 300 channels fitted with solid covers were

Rainwater from roofs, road and pathways had to be directed in a series of culverts, surface drainage channels and rills, eventually discharging into the lake

also installed adjacent to each other in the rills to create tunnels under roadways and paths. Hauraton FASERFIX channels were specified because of the large, standard sizes available. The channels are made from the company’s Reinforced Fibre Concrete (RFC) which allows for the easy cutting, without breakage, of mitres and the holes required for the many downpipe access points. FASERFIX channels also feature the company’s SIDE-LOCK boltless grating/cover fixing system which allowed for quick fitting of these components. For example, 10 metres of grating or cover

can be fitted in about 70 seconds. Colin Taff, Hauraton’s Project Engineer comments about the project: “There have been over 1900 metres of Hauraton drainage channel installed so far in this project by Howard Civil Engineering Limited. They were please to report no breakages of Hauraton components, even during necessary mitring and hole cutting in the FASERFIX channels.”

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cascading uncontrolled to flatter land beyond the site’s boundaries. As part of the scheme a lake was created along the southern boundary of the development. With the East Campus site being quite flat, deep drains were not possible so rainwater from roofs, road and pathways had to be directed in a series of culverts, surface drainage channels and rills, eventually discharging into the lake. Hauraton FASERFIX channels were chosen to create the culverts and surface drainage between the building whilst RECYFIX SLOTTED channels with their unobtrusive galvanised slot inlets were specified for the pedestrian routes and concourses.

enq 007

* tim.connolly@hauraton.co.uk

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01582 501380

Public Sector Build Journal 21

Landscaping

Pollution fighting Noxer paving The Highgate area of Kendal has recently undergone a £340,000 redevelopment, including the laying of pollution fighting Noxer Tegula paving, which has led to a 17.2% reduction in dangerous NOx gases.

Not only is the street more visually appealing but NOX levels have decreased by 17.2%

22 Public Sector Build Journal

ighgate, a key location in Kendal town centre, had become dirty and shabby raising concerns by local businesses that it was discouraging local shoppers. Furthermore, as the southern entrance to Kendal, Highgate was dominated by standing traffic, creating high levels of the air pollutant Nitrogen Oxide (NOx), which can lead to respiratory problems. In light of these issues and concerns South Lakeland District Council and Kendal Town Council added the area to a wider regeneration project happening in the town. The planned improvements for Highgate included new paving, heritage lighting, new benches and bins and new planting schemes, as well as the creation of more crossing points for pedestrians making it easier for people to access both sides of the street increasing safety and reducing waiting times. It was hoped that these improvements would have a positive impact on the wellbeing of residents as well as the economy, as the high quality streetscape and enhanced outdoor areas would encourage residents and visitors to explore the town on foot and enjoy the many shops and popular key attractions along the route such as Abbot Hall Art Gallery and the Brewery Arts Centre. Having worked collaboratively on a number of projects, South Lakeland District Council approached Marshalls to discuss the needs of the scheme. Marshalls’ Noxer expert Andrew Stalker said: “Because of its looks and durability, our Tegula concrete block paving is widely used throughout Kendal town centre, and so the

Highgate had become dirty, shabby and polluted

Council approached us in 2011 to discuss the regeneration project. “During our conversations it transpired that the Council was concerned by the air pollution caused by the large amounts of standing traffic on Highgate, and so we suggested that they try our new pollution fighting product Noxer. “Noxer is made from Titanium Dioxide which, when added to the surface of paving, creates a chemical reaction in daylight, NOx gases are converted into harmless soluble nitrates which wash away with rainfall. The Titanium Dioxide regenerates after each chemical cycle, so it never runs out. “The Noxer does not affect the look of the blocks and can be added to a wide range of our concrete block paving products. In total South Lakeland District Council has installed close to 2500m2 of Marshalls Noxer Tegula paving. “The client is extremely happy with the results so far. Environmental Officers at South Lakeland District Council have been monitoring air pollution levels on Highgate both pre and post Noxer installation, and results show that in the six months since Noxer paving was installed there has been a significant decrease in NOx levels of 17.2%. “Furthermore, the street is now more visually appealing and is a more functional space for shoppers, which is having a positive impact on the many businesses lining this busy thoroughfare.”

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NOx levels are being monitored by South Lakeland District Council

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HVAC refrigeration and ventilation needs at the design stage. Public buildings such as hospitals, schools, offices and leisure centres often have complex needs. For example, a leisure centre may have a number of different systems to heat and cool spaces such as changing rooms and gyms, as well as providing hot water to showers and refrigeration to kitchens. The systems often operate separately, which can mean a huge amount of energy is wasted. However, by considering the entire building’s heating and cooling needs, and delivering an integrated climate control solution, it is possible to increase energy efficiency dramatically, thus achieving major reductions in whole life costs.

Efficient climate control Martin Passingham, DX Product Manager at Daikin UK, looks at how today's highly sophisticated energy efficient climate control systems can reduce whole life costs significantly.

Virtuous circle Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV) heat pump technology is one such solution. VRV systems can be used as a total solution for heating, cooling, refrigeration and ventilation and are capable of creating a ‘virtuous circle’ of climate control within a building, with, for example, excess heat from air conditioning systems being recovered and used to heat hot water or over door air curtains. The principle can also be applied to recover waste heat from refrigeration systems for use in similar ways.

Before opting to upgrade, it is vital to consider the significantly reduced running costs that a correctly designed, modern climate control system may bring

nternal climate control is a critical factor when assessing the whole-life costing of a building, in particular, whether or not the system should be replaced or upgraded. Any decision has to consider the costs of maintaining and operating the system, along with non-financial factors, such as: Does the equipment meet the users’ technical specification? Does it meet quality standards? And is it as environmentally sustainable as possible? It may be tempting to upgrade rather than replace, but today’s systems are designed taking into account a whole building’s needs and so can achieve levels of energy efficiencies, which until now were not considered achievable. In some cases it is possible to expect efficiencies of nine or even ten. So, before opting to upgrade, it is vital to consider the significantly reduced running costs that a correctly designed, modern climate control system may bring. This approach needs to be applied at a strategic level, so it is important to assess the entire building’s often complex heating, cooling,

24 Public Sector Build Journal

VRV systems are capable of creating a 'virtuous circle' of climate control within a building

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HVAC advantageous, as the amount of energy wasted by a room occupant changing the climate control settings can be significant. Selecting the right ceiling cassette is another important part of system design. An indoor unit that can incorporate presence sensors will adjust the set point or switch off the unit when a room is empty, avoiding unnecessary cooling or heating. When motion is detected, the sensors enable the temperature to be reset to its original setpoint. The use of presence sensors has been shown to improve energy efficiency by up to 27% over a three hour period.

Whole life costs Sensors can also direct airflow depending on where people are in the room, ensuring no draughts. A ‘floor’ sensor in a cassette can detect the temperature difference between the floor and the ceiling (the natural temperature distribution in a room means that ceiling areas will be warmest, as hot air rises) and re-direct the airflow to ensure even temperature distribution. One example of where whole life The Daikin VRV IV provides the latest heat pump technology

costs have been shown to be reduced significantly by taking this approach is The Range superstore in Warrington. Although this is a private sector project, the principles behind the climate control specification are the same for public sector buildings. The building was fitted with the latest heat pump technology (Daikin VRV IV) system and estimated savings have been simulated, based on previous installations of an older system (Daikin VRV III). The system was installed with 69 Self Cleaning Roundflow Cassettes and controlled by the RTD-20. The results demonstrate that the new system is expected to save almost £190,000 over a five year period, compared with older models, equal to the cost of installing the system. An integrated climate control system should help to reduce a building’s whole life costs. Daikin UK’s online tool, Daikin City, shows how significant energy savings can be made when this approach to climate control system design is fully utilised.

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It is important not to consider this approach as “air conditioning with bolt-on modules” but as a holistic approach to climate control, which is becoming more widely recognised as an environmentally sustainable solution, as well as a way of reducing whole life costs. But it is not just heat recovery that can help. Whether a system is at the design stage or already installed, today’s intelligent control systems are capable of making significant energy savings (around 30% in the case of Daikin’s RTD system). These controls are a “plug and play” solution that simply fit onto existing systems with minimal costs to retrofit. These flexible and intelligent systems allow a building manager to set parameters for the climate control system, freeing up the user to think about other important issues. For example, if intelligent controls can switch off a climate control system when a room is unoccupied, or a window or door is left open, then energy wastage is reduced automatically, without the need to monitor building users’ behaviour. If the system uses PIR (passive infrared), it will also be able to detect both room or zone occupancy and activity levels – a particular advantage for hotel rooms, where operation can be adapted automatically when the occupant is asleep. This is hugely

www.daikincity.co.uk An indoor unit that can incorporate presence sensors will adjust the set point or switch off the unit when a room is empty, avoiding unnecessary cooling or heating

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Healthcare managers, increasing competition among providers and the new commissioning landscape has led to them recognising they need an improved understanding of the community requirements, market demographics and the landscape in which they operate. There is a new demand for them to better utilise assets and resources more effectively in order to help release funds for areas such as technology and innovation.

Track assets

More public sector organisations are improving their service delivery by accurately 'mapping' their property assets

Mapping for health Graham Hughes, Health Sector Manager at Ordnance Survey discusses how healthcare organisations can improve their planning and redesign their services via a web-enabled evidence based application built around accurate geographic information.

f asked to consider the ‘assets’ of the UK healthcare sector, you’d be forgiven for listing things such as the skilled doctors and nurses we rely on for treatment or state-of-the-art equipment, to name a few. While these would most definitely be valid, one of the biggest assets and frontline services within the sector is the large property portfolios and estates servicing the community and helping to provide a safe and secure environment for patients, staff and visitors on a daily basis. We are currently seeing one of the largest reorganisations to the NHS and estates and facilities managers are increasingly facing challenges around the management of their future healthcare assets. As these managers navigate this pace of change and look to successfully ‘do more with less’, innovative digital mapping data is proving invaluable during this process.

(PSMA); a ground-breaking licensing agreement between the Government and Ordnance Survey. The PSMA allows geographic and address data to be widely available, free at the point of use and shared between most public sector organisations across England and Wales. For healthcare estates and facilities

The data provided by Ordnance Survey is underpinning organisations that manage, own or lease a wide range of physical assets, including land, buildings, offices and infrastructure. If assets are located in more than one area, using this geographic data through the PSMA is one of the most effective ways to track and manage such assets. In essence, the data is supporting estate managers through providing up to date and accurate site building level information for use in day-to-day planning and management of property portfolios and for reporting to central government. It also provides additional flexibility in producing bespoke customised mapping for management use. Kent and Medway NHS are a great example of a healthcare organisation improving their planning and redesign of their services via a web-enabled evidence based application built around accurate geographic information. SHAPE, short for Strategic Health Asset Planning and Evaluation, encourages a multidisciplinary approach to service planning in the area and is helping to inform the

Acquiring data More public sector organisations than ever across England and Wales are improving their service delivery and benefiting from cost efficiencies by accurately ‘mapping’ their property assets through Ordnance Survey’s innovative geographic data. Data is provided under the Public Sector Mapping Agreement

28 Public Sector Build Journal

While maps play a key role in all public health analysis, they have also become an integral part of planning process consultations

Healthcare

The PSMA allows geographic and address data to be widely available, free at the point of use and shared between most public sector organisations

Whitfield. The trust is also recognising the benefits of geographic analysis across other areas of trust, particularly within the business intelligence teams. The benefits of accessing digital mapping data through the PSMA is that estates and facilities managers have the reassurance of knowing that data through Ordnance Survey are the most comprehensive, high-

quality and up-to-date national datasets in Great Britain. Thus enabling them to manage their assets, increase efficiency, maximise use of space and modernise their functions through what is a free point of use public sector agreement.

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development of more efficient, productive and targeted services for patients. The tool is being used to support the planning of health and social care services in West Kent, an area where an estimated 60,000 new homes will be built in the next 20 years, including part of the Thames Gateway, Europe’s largest regeneration programme. As well as ensuring that GP surgeries and clinics meet the needs of local residents, the Primary Care Trust worked with local authorities and other health providers to prepare for huge planned growth in population over the next two decades. Analysing current and future health needs of a growing population is a complex task and the use of digital maps has proven to be critical in pinpointing the best possible locations for estates and property requirements in the area. The planners at NHS Kent and Medway have turned to SHAPE to help revitalise existing GP and health clinics services, as well as recommending sites for new facilities to meet the anticipated demands of a growing population. SHAPE is now managed by Public Health England and provides vital information to assist a wide range of healthcare staff around the country in their decision making. SHAPES’s value lies in its ability to link national data on clinical analysis, public health, primary care and demographical information with data on the performance and location of healthcare facilities. While maps play a key role in all public health analysis, they have also become an integral part of planning process consultations for residential developments where geographic information is used to determine the impact the new development will have on local health services. For example, North Essex NHS successfully secured £3.13 million in capital funding through planning legal agreements, to increase the capacity of primary care services to meet demand from increased number of patients resulting from new housing.

www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/ publicsector

Increased efficiency Another NHS trust to recently employ Ordnance Survey data as part of their estates and facilities management is York Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. “As an existing Computer-Aided Design (CAD) user, I am keen to understand how Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can complement our existing systems and help us map asset locations and understand how facility location can improve service delivery,” says CAD Technician Tom

Another NHS trust to recently employ Ordnance Survey data as part of their estates and facilities management is York Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Public Sector Build Journal 29

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Bathrooms Criterion 14 says the bathroom should have a WC, wash basin and shower or bath. The code does not go into fittings but, again, often require a degree of common sense and imagination as illustrated by the winner of two interior design awards at the UK Property Awards 2010. Alison Wright of the consultancy Easy Living Home won the award for Westwood Park, Bradford for client Habinteg Housing Association. The client’s brief called for ‘designs which would be flexible to accommodate as wide a possible range of future tenants’. In her ‘inclusive family bathroom’ design the space doubles as a wet room with safety features which include slip-resistant flooring and thermostatic, lever operated brassware.

Enhanced control

Adapting for the future Lengthening life spans pose a particular challenge to housebuilders, and in the bathroom particularly, writes Roger Crabb, Marketing Manager of Mira Showers.

esigning and building housing in the UK – and in Europe as a whole – is now facing the significant challenge posed by our rapidly ageing population. The basic facts are that in 20 years time, one third of Britons will be aged 60 or more, with many other European countries in a similar position. This has major implications because this means that the incidence of chronic disease will rise dramatically – and these conditions already account for up to 80% of total healthcare spending in the UK. The actual layout and construction of the bathroom is crucial, as recognised in the Lifetime Homes standard, which applies to public sector funded housing in England and will be extended to the private sector by 2013. Among the 16 Design Criteria that comprise the standard are a set of

requirements for the providing bathroom, shower and WC arrangements that in some instances exceed those of Part M in the Building Regulations. Many of the suggestions are plainly common sense. Critierion 11, for example, notes that “Walls in all bathrooms and WC compartments should be capable of firm fixing and support for adaptations such as grab rails” while Criterion 13 states that the “Structure above a main bedroom and bathroom ceilings should be capable of supporting ceiling hoists and the design should provide a reasonable route between this bedroom and the bathroom.” Similarly Criterion 10 says that there should be an entrance level WC with the potential for a floor drain for a future accessible shower if there is no bathroom at this level and

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It is important to balance the need to anticipate future demands against possibly stigmatising the occupant

The thermostatic mixing valve (TMV) is the most important of these – the one simple measure that has a proven record of improving safety. Scalding is a danger to young and old alike but is one that could and should be avoided easily. Similarly any shower should be thermostatically controlled too, particularly in areas of low pressure, so that the person using the shower does not get scalded if someone else turns on a tap or flushes the WC. It is important to balance the need to anticipate future demands against possibly stigmatising the occupant – the bathroom should not look as if its user is already disabled. Organisations such as the RNIB are keen to develop products that meet the needs of those with particular disabilities but which do not look exceptional. Mira has worked with the RNIB to develop its ranges of Select Flex and Advance ATL Flex showers and incorporated their recommendations. These included a more obvious method of distinguishing the two rotary levers, enlarging the font and temperature markings, adding tactile elements to the control levers and providing the operator instructions in clear print. The result is a range of attractive showers that are not instantly identifiable as being for the visually impaired and are easy to use for a wide range of people. As in other areas of the home, it is possible to plan the layout and fittings of a bathroom so they will meet potential needs and still provide an attractive environment. The industry is working to develop products that will make this challenge far simpler to meet.

www.mirashowers.co.uk

Public Sector Build Journal 31

Housing

Uplifting the social environment

schemes such as Decent Homes and CESP, among others. We expect this to continue, not only due to the impressive results, but also in line with new funding from the Green Deal and ECO initiatives. The upgrade of the properties often involves external considerations such as parking, with the hard landscaping of the whole public realm following suit as a knock-on effect. Since the introduction of home zones over a decade ago, the concept has evolved and adapted to suit modern urban circumstances. Planners and suppliers are uniting, combining their knowledge and experience, to progress the concept during the planning process. Still relatively new to the market, a home zone today would typically incorporate an increased level of off-road parking to improve accessibility and a signification uptake of permeable paving, profiting the neighbourhood with flooding prevention, minimised risk of excessive surface water and the opportunity to harvest and recycle rainwater for domestic duties such as washing the car and watering the lawn. The home zone concept has also evolved with the use of colour. In the early stages of the initiative, the schemes leaned towards standard monotone palettes, whereas more recently requirements have a more aesthetic focus. To exemplify this, the Kilsaran team has worked with town

Clima-pave Mellifont applied to roads and drives of a housing scheme

Robert Davenhall, Specifications Manager at Kilsaran International talks to PSBJ about how in order to create desirable communities, town planners must consider far more than just the location alone.

he appearance and ‘feel’ of the destination plays a huge part in the overall residential concept, even influencing the social behaviours of the community itself and setting the right expectations among potential buyers on the housing market. Hard landscaping is a major factor in creating the appropriate ambience. The build and uplift of affordable housing areas is often subject to rigorous financial and sustainable criteria, but good suppliers have recognised this trend is set to stay and will have measures in place to satisfy all requirements. Often, the supplier will become a valuable resource, complying so far as to bring new suggestions to the table with original ideas and further guidance. The home zone scheme is fast proving its worth as the latest measure of social uplift,

32 Public Sector Build Journal

resulting in a myriad of success stories from its European beginnings in the Netherlands through to current developments spanning the last 10 years. The schemes usually involve the implementation of a ‘shared space’ philosophy, in which roads, driveways and pavements are delineated solely with subtle colour contrasts in the paving rather than traditional kerbing. Boasting benefits including safe play zones, increased tolerance between pedestrians, cars and cyclists and a reduced speed limit, these zones create a desirable qualitative improvement in the community. Owners of properties with a home zone postcode have even noticed a tangible boost in their property prices. We have been approached by a number of councils and housing associations looking to overhaul the current streetscape under

Striking a balance between vehicular traffic, cyclists and pedestrians

Housing Specification Spotlight Councils have moved on from the dull and drab council housing builds of the past. Product specifications are now motivated by ambitious aesthetics to create a modern desirable ambience, resulting in a balancing act of restricted budgets, low maintenance requirements and growing aesthetic considerations. So, with such ambitious requests, what products fit the bill?

The appearance and amenity of the street is of real importance

attract the driver’s attention. This acts as another sensory indication that they are in a different zone, reminding drivers to take the necessary precautions. As these developments grow from strength to strength, the home zone is rumoured to become one of the most instrumental changes in the streetscape of social housing. By embracing this trend, social housing planners are leading the way to inspire the residential schemes of the future.

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planners on an estate in Netherley, Liverpool. The traditionally pedestrian areas, such as paths and crossings, have been paved in bright red with the roads in black. Although kerb lines are flush, they are differentiated in a silver granite colour. This creates a strong visual character, clearly distinguished from a conventional streetscape. We have also noticed an increase in the use of textured landscaping, favoured for effective traffic calming. We often recommend paving with a heavy chamfer or tumbled block, creating a noticeably different tyre noise that will automatically

www.kilsaraninternational.co.uk

The Kilsaran Clima-pave range has become increasingly popular for social housing applications. Councils have minimised the traditional garden areas in the social housing schemes, building hard landscaping such as driveways and shared space areas in their place and increasing the risk of excess water, which would usually drain through the lawn. Permeable paving therefore provides the ideal solution, allowing water run off through the wider stone filled joints. In addition to minimising flooding and health and safety risks, the absorption of water through the joints results in much lower maintenance requirements, preventing weed growth, which is a common problem for sand based joints. Robert Davenhall, Specifications Manager at Kilsaran International, also notes an increase in multi-blend colour products, not only for the aesthetic preference: “The multi-blend products further reduce the maintenance needed for upkeep of the paving, essentiallyhiding stains and dirt. Single colour paving will show any soiling immediately and will require regular cleaning to keep the paving at the desired aesthetic standard.” The Mellifont block paving product in particular has seen a huge uptake over the past year. Part of the Climapave range, the mechanically antiqued edges and surface of the paving gives a time worn cobble effect. Not only does this vintage feel lend itself well to a low maintenance solution, it produces a fashionable residential aesthetic with a permeable function, ticking all the requirement boxes to become a firm favourite.

Clima-pave Brindle (MultiBlend) permeable paving applied to drives at Norris Green

Robert continues: “Suppliers must take on the challenge of providing products that work well for the purpose, look great on site and fit the right cost expectations in order to achieve specification.”

Public Sector Build Journal 33

Energy Management

Intelligent hospitals Healthcare facilities are among the most energy-intensive buildings in the world. With today's building management systems promising far more than they deliver, a smart approach is needed to control rising energy costs, while maintaining patient comfort and safety. James Thackrah, Director of Healthcare, UK & Ireland at Schneider Electric, explains more.

NHS occupied space isn’t functionally suitable for care or clinical needs. In 30 UK hospitals, 50 per cent of the space isn’t suitable, and in one hospital this figure is closer to 83 per cent. With statistics such as these, it is not difficult to see where the huge energy inefficiencies originate and where changes need to be made.

Utilising data

Currently, the UK's healthcare sector spends more than £400m per year on energy, though much of this ends up wasted

he world is living longer than ever before. The number of people living past 60 years old is expected to triple from 700 million to 2 billion by 2050, which will have a huge impact on demand for healthcare services. As such, healthcare facilities will not only need to focus on patient comfort and care, but also better manage their rising energy costs. Currently, the UK’s healthcare sector spends more than £400m per year on energy, though much of this ends up wasted. By improving the efficiency of its buildings, not only are conditions enhanced for staff

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and patients, but government targets can be met via lowered emissions. The condition of the NHS estate is critical to the patient experience. It can directly affect a patient’s health and their physical safety and it is widely recognised that goodquality environments hasten patient recovery. A fifth of the building stock actually predates the NHS’ foundation in 1948 and is not fit for purpose. Indeed, one clinical building still in use was built over 275 years ago. Around 17 per cent of overall

Monitoring the energy usage of a healthcare estate is an incredibly complex business. Hospitals often consist of separate buildings of differing sizes, which are used 24/7 and house varying numbers of people. Traditionally, a building management system (BMS) has been the heart of a building, gathering data about how much energy is being used – but little else. We hear a lot about ‘intelligent buildings’ – but many of the buildings within today’s healthcare facilities are dumb, producing data but doing nothing with it. The new breed of 21st Century Hospitals are investing in systems which go further than just a traditional BMS monitoring solution. On paper, reducing costs is easy – turn off machines for departments that aren’t in use, optimise HVAC, lighting and power, ensure that maintenance is prioritised and invested in as necessary, and confirm that energy efficiency is being addressed at board level. In practice, in the face of ageing facilities and budget cuts,

Street Furniture

By ensuring everything integrates, building and facility managers are given a single point of monitoring, control and maintenance

Additionally, a lot of the existing UK healthcare facilities are ageing, meaning they are being outshone by some of the newer facilities in the country. Public Private Partnerships (PPP) are one way to free up cash to drive back into patient care. Taunton and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust recently teamed with Schneider Electric on a PPP where improvements are self-funding and results are guaranteed. The Trust implemented the first guaranteed energy reduction project in the UK healthcare sector, saving the hospital £17 million in reduced energy costs over 20 years. These savings can be ploughed straight back into patient care. Average energy consumption at the Trust’s Musgrove Park site is set to be reduced by more than 40 per cent,

delivering a huge cut in carbon emissions of 43 per cent. Schneider Electric has guaranteed the finances, meaning that if targets aren’t met there is no cost to the customer and they can be confident in the services and solutions offered. Hospitals are under constant pressure to do more with less, and this is true of energy usage too. Healthcare managers have a duty to ensure patient care, which extends to a safe and comfortable environment for both patients and staff. Investment in new technology, whether that is through private financing or otherwise, is key to making this happen, particularly as demand on healthcare institutions rises in line with an ageing population.

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this requires time, investment and specialist software. We are helping to create more intelligent healthcare infrastructure, by enabling companies to make sense of data, using a software suite called StruxureWare for Healthcare. It is an intelligent approach to energy management, enabling interoperability between Power, IT room, building management and security systems. By ensuring everything integrates, building and facility managers are given a single point of monitoring, control and maintenance. Consider how having a universal view of energy usage could benefit a healthcare facility. At board level, executives are given the information that they need to meet sustainability goals, whether they be internal or set by government. They can also keep track of costs and process efficiencies. At an operational level, facility managers can examine the efficiency of building infrastructure, considering where HVAC or lighting is being optimised, and ensuring that the environment is safe, comfortable and complies with regulation. At a control level, security staff and facility managers have access to real time data to help prevent issues like power outages before they occur.

www.schneider-electric.com/uk

Self-funded improvements As an example of a new-build project, Schneider Electric was last year appointed to provide a fully integrated building control solution for the New South Glasgow Hospital. By supplying a complete envelope building solution, consisting of a BMS for on-site and remote plant room control, individual room temperature and lighting control, switchgear and electrical monitoring systems and a full security system, the New South Glasgow Hospital will be able to meet energy reduction targets and improve patient care when it is complete in 2015. Though targets are high, the NHS is facing unprecedented financial pressures.

Schneider Electric was last year appointed to provide a fully integrated building control solution for the New South Glasgow Hospital

Public Sector Build Journal 35

HOMES Preview l Asset Management: what the role means in 2013 and why it’s now more important than ever l Welfare Reform: impact on asset planning and the bottom line l Green Deal and ECO: reviewing the latest developments and sector engagement

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The full seminar programme and featured speakers is now available online. Make sure you secure your place today to make a positive impact on the future of housing.

www.homesevent.co.uk

Visitor List

The future of housing After a very successful first year, HOMES will return to ExCeL London from the 20th - 21st November for two intense days of networking, sharing and learning, and this year all content is completely free.

013 has been a pivotal year for the sector. Housing is crucial to the country’s long term economic recovery and with the government’s welfare reforms rolling out across the UK everyone is feeling the impact. So now it

is more important than ever before that we come together as a sector to find innovative approaches to help raise standards, reduce costs and speed up the delivery in order to tackle the housing crisis head on. HOMES will bring together thousands of housing professionals, 150 of the industry’s leading suppliers and 80 experts all under one roof. With a firm focus on asset management, repairs and maintenance, retrofit and sustainability, HOMES will ensure you leave with the knowledge, tools and contacts you need to face the challenges ahead. This year HOMES will host four free seminar theatres delivering the latest legislation, innovation and working practices in sessions including: l Self-repairing Cities: exploring the cities of the future and what radical ideas are yet to emerge

This year HOMES will host four free seminar theatres delivering timely industry debate

36 Public Sector Build Journal

l Fire Safety: keeping residents and tenant safe; sharing best practice

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HOMES will bring together thousands of housing professionals all under one roof

Group Director of Property Services, A2Dominion Procurement Manager, Advantage SW Director of Property Investment, Affinity Sutton Asset Manager, AmicusHorizon Chair, Asra Housing Group Assistant Director, Asset Management & Maintenance, Birmingham City Council Head of Housing, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council Maintenance Director, Broadland Group Chief Executive, Broadland Housing Association www.schneider-electric.com/uk Head of Housing Management, City of London Head of Asset Management, Derwent Living Director of Development, Derwentside Homes Service Improvement and Policy Manager, Family Mosaic Special Project Director, Genesis Housing Association Head of Repairs and Maintenance, London Borough of Ealing Director of Housing, London Borough of Greenwich Executive Director, Housing and Regeneration, London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham Secretary, NHMF Sustainability Manager, Peabody Trust Project Director, Places for People Director of Strategy, Sovereign Housing Group Managing Director, Sustainable Homes Director, Swan Housing Group Managing Director, Wrekin Housing Trust

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sustainable-buildingproducts.com Your our essential new reference for sustainable building product information. web | mobile | tablet 016 Public Sector BuildOnline JournalEnquiry 37

Leisure

Managing playground risk Only in the past few years has the true value of 'free play' for children and the need to include elements of 'managed' risk in our parks and play areas really been understood. Here Chartered Landscape Architect Carolyn Place, an expert in play area design with Anthony Stiff Associates and a Director at Smooga, looks at why this is important and how public sector providers have continued to meet the challenge.

made best use of the environment and features available but also inspired children and adults alike to use of space. It had to give users the opportunities to work together, improve their skills and stretch themselves ‘safely’ plus encourage adults to take younger children to outdoor community spaces but still be ‘cool enough’ for older children and young people to use. Increased fall heights of up to 3m offered great excitement and are now acceptable as long as the appropriate impact surfaces are used. Similarly, introducing high speed, dynamic, overhead swings encourage teenagers to play and enjoy themselves where previously playgrounds were boring and uninteresting.

Outdoor freedom

This clever compartmentalisation of activities means schools effectively get far more from less and without a massive price tag

n 2008 the government launched its ‘Playbuilder’ initiative that injected over £235m of investment over three years into building, refurbishing and improving playgrounds around the country. Part of the national play strategy, and supported by Play England, two of the key and inspirational support documents aimed at the Public Sector were ‘Design for Play – a guide to creating successful play spaces’ and ‘Managing Risk in Play Provision’. Both sought to revolutionise attitude around outdoor play for children and banished the myth that play equipment should be so safe and prescriptive that they didn’t get an opportunity to learn about themselves. Together they provided a new approach to the design of play areas, where

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children could experience an element of ‘managed’ risk, in a challenging and exciting environment. This initiative played a massive part in influencing the attitude and thinking process to outdoor design and gave confidence to play area designers and local authorities to introduce apparently risky structures and stimulating equipment into their designs. Natural play was a significant part of the Playbuilder ethos and embraced play within a natural environment and with natural materials. It also applied to children having an opportunity to use conventional play equipment within an artificial environment but in a more creative and unconventional way. Core to the idea was the need to create something that was visually pleasing and

In working with many schools today, one issue that is highlighted repeatedly is the lack of appropriate outdoor space, particularly within primary schools. This is made worse by the large differences in the ages of the children, which is reflected in their physical size, coordination skills and overall abilities. To continue to develop the culture of play and activity outside the school building, young people still need to be provided with the opportunities for ‘free play’ alongside the important sports and games which offer more structure. This is designed to enable them to trust themselves and their environment in an already secure and managed environment. Today sports activities are part of the broader picture and must be encouraged as part of ‘free play’ for those who want to participate outside of the usual curricular activity. A recently published piece of research by University College London reported that just 51% of the 6,500 children they monitored achieved the recommended hour of physical activity each day. For girls, the figure was just 38%, compared with 63% for boys. In 2007, Liverpool John Moores University also published its research

Designing flexible outdoor spaces is now a key objective amongst Landscape Architects

Leisure

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spaces. Schools have a role in teaching children to play and develop their confidence through this play. However, the way spaces are designed and the use of innovative products and ideas can all help facilitate the safe inclusion of children in all kinds of activities. Many organisations in the public sector are now pushing the boundaries when it comes to designing thought-provoking play areas that deliver managed risk but there is still scope to add more excitement into future developments. This means that when children experience the world outside school, they will be more aware of managing their own risk and more inclined towards a variety of play and activities. Increased fall heights of up to 3m offered great excitement and are now acceptable as long as the appropriate impact surfaces are used

www.smooga.co.uk

into the behaviour of 10 and 11-year-olds in school playgrounds and identified that girls and boys play differently. Girls tend to spend their time talking in small groups and socialising. In contrast, boys were more likely to play in larger groups and to take part in games like football, which typically dominate a playground. More varied and inclusive sports still need to be encouraged and space for non-sports activities created. Designing flexible outdoor spaces is now a key objective amongst Landscape Architects working in the public sector when considering any new project. Rather than stopping children playing sport it is now widely accepted that it is better to avoid spatial conflict within existing spaces. There are many recent examples where schools have been able to contain or segregate certain sports from the rest of the playground, which then allows the remainder of the children to play safely and without conflict.

Leisure zones The introduction of MUGAS and more recently Smooga’s, smart moveable multi use games areas, into designs has helped schools maximise their use of these spaces and enabled them to provide discrete, flexible areas for all kinds of sports and other activities where space is restricted. This clever compartmentalisation of activities means they effectively get far more from less and without a massive price tag. Schools with too much space can also use these arenas for zoning, allowing smaller areas for football, hockey, handball or non sports related activities, while other children can roam and play more freely in the other

Today sports activities are part of the broader picture and must be encouraged as part of ‘free play’

Public Sector Build Journal 39

Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms and the criteria, Clos-o-Mat, the UK’s leading disabled toileting solutions provider, has published a white paper: Provision of Changing Places Accessible Toilets in the Healthcare/Hospitals Industry. Available for download from the company’s website www.clos-o-mat.com, the white paper covers the rationale behind a Changing Places toilet, quantifies the need to provide such a facility in healthcare establishments, and covers legislative and ‘good practice’ guidelines. Thus the document covers, in one source, all data to make an informed decision on installation of a Changing Places toilet.

Flexible equipment

Instill confidence in patients Hospitals are failing to provide proper facilities for thousands of out-patients and visitors, yet that could be transformed simply by installing appropriate toilets.

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Since the Changing Places concept was developed, over 500 have been installed across the UK

Unlike a conventional accessible (Document M type) toilet, a Changing Places toilet is a minimum 12m2, and has additional equipment of a height adjustable, adultsized changing bench, hoist and privacy screen. Since the Changing Places concept was developed, over 500 have been installed across the UK, with Clos-o-Mat being the leading supplier. The company is unique in being able to offer, in-house, design advice, supply, install, commissioning and ongoing service/maintenance, backed up by inhouse project management of a Changing Places toilet or hygiene room.  *

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ne in 284 people in the UK need a Changing Places toilet. Yet of the UK’s 2300 hospitals, only eight have the ‘bigger and better’ accessible (disabled) facility. “On average we visit the toilet eight times a day,” elaborates Robin Tuffley, Clos-o-Mat Marketing Manager. “Out-patients and visitors often need to go to the toilet when on hospital premises.

Hygienic facility “For many people, who need the help of a carer, a standard accessible toilet is inappropriate, lacking the space and equipment they need. As a result, they either have to be changed on the toilet floor – a degrading and germ-ridden experience – soil themselves or go home before being seen. A Changing Places toilet meets their needs, and provides an appropriate, hygienic environment.” To help estates and facilities managers easily understand the need, the requirement

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Finchley Memorial Hospital is one of the few that HAS installed a Changing Places toilet

The

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Online Enquiry 020 Public Sector Build Journal 41

Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Polygiene ensures user confidence For the ultimate in hygiene, Pressalit Care has introduced the antibacterial Polygiene finish to its range of toilet seats. Polygiene is a 100% natural product which prevents bacteria from spreading. Made up of silver salts - which are found in our drinking water and sea water - Polygiene is perfectly safe both to users and to the environment. Available to order, the treatment is added as an integrated part of the toilet seat manufacture, and so, unlike many other surface treatments, never fades. Polygiene has been certified and tested to the highest safety standards, so Pressalit Care’s toilet seats with the added finish can be used with the highest level of confidence. Designed for particular use by the elderly and those with special physical needs, Pressalit Care’s range of toilet seats take into account the difference in size and shape of the human body. Ergonomically designed, functional and attractive, the

Dania, Colani and Ergosit styles are made of high-quality thermoset plastic, making them highly durable and easy to clean, and are available in a choice of colours – white, red, blue, and anthracite. Solid stainless steel hinges are just what is needed for a sense of security and stability – but an additional cross bar for stability comes as standard on all seats treated with Polygiene, making them ideal for more demanding environments. The three styles have been designed to suit different personal requirements, such as for those requiring sideways transfer; a large, wide surface with good support; or

with a curved bowl to support and stabilise the pelvic region. As recommended in BS8300, stability buffers come as standard on these Pressalit Care toilet seats, ensuring the seat sits very securely on the toilet bowl, even with sideways pressure. Raised and slanted versions are also available; Pressalit Care recommends that suitability for use with third party sanitary ware should be checked prior to fitting.  *

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uk@pressalit.com ( 0844 880 6950

Maxwood offers extra tall cubicle systems

Impey Showers re-engineers the shower seat Impey’s revolutionary new SlimFold shower seat and bench is stylish, durable, safe and functional. It bears weight of up to 40 stone and has a profile of just 111mm when folded. The bench has a profile of 55mm. SlimFold comes in 10 colours and has an RRP of £175 (plus VAT) and can be fitted from heights of 417mm which ensures safe transfer between standing and sitting or from a wheelchair. There is no maximum height restriction. (

 enq 022 01460 250090 * info@impeyshowers.com

42 Public Sector Build Journal

Maxwood’s comprehensive collection of washroom systems now includes extra tall cubicles for added privacy in education, healthcare and commercial applications. The XT (Xtra Tall) options give architects and specifiers a choice of cubicles to fit almost every feasible height of room. This XT variant is available for a range of Maxwood’s most popular cubicle systems with panels manufactured from High Pressure Laminate or Solid Grade Laminate. XT versions can be specified for the distinctive Modelle, with its unique profiled pilasters; the Motiv, which combines everyday good looks with durability; and the high performing Marin, a strong, water-resistant solution for even the most challenging environments. *

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024 7662 1122

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Form and function from new Miranit The recent launch of Miranit Bespoke basins from Franke Washroom Systems is to be extended once again, during Winter 2013, with the launch of Miranit High Gloss Washtroughs. These striking washtroughs are precast in one complete piece and seamless thanks to the Franke Washroom System’s moulded manufacturing process. Developed for Retail, Leisure, Education and Corporate washrooms, the solid Miranit material used for the High Gloss Washtroughs combines strength and durability with the highest possible hygiene performance. The Miranit High Gloss Gelcoat layer which covers the surface is resistant to limescale and thus prevents bacteria buildup and ensures cleaning is super quick. *

ws-marketing.gb@franke.com

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01246 450255

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Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Customer satisfaction with Amwell Systems The summer months were a busy time for Amwell Systems who successfully supplied and installed school washrooms up and down the country. One in particular was Northumberland Park Primary School. Appointed contractor Brittanic Building Services LTD chose Amwell’s Splash range to install in several areas of the school. Joe Oliveri, Director of Brittanic Building Services, was hugely impressed with Amwell’s product and service. He comments: “The process from start to finish with Amwell Systems has been fantastic. The sales staff were not only extremely helpful but also very efficient with the amendments required for the project.”

Aftersales is also a huge consideration when choosing a washroom company to work with and Joe was just as impressed with that side of Amwell’s service: “The CAD team were also very proactive with providing drawings for approval and construction within tight timescales to ensure the lead in periods were met.” Having also successfully and expertly completed Northview School with Amwell

products Brittanic Building Services has now become an approved installer for Amwell Systems. Joe comments: “It has been an absolute pleasure working with Amwell and we will certainly look forward to working with them in the near and distant future.”  *

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sales@amwell-systems.com ( 01763 276200

A 'total' approach enhances 'outstanding' provison A college already rated ‘outstanding’ in its approach to inclusion and meeting the needs of its learners has taken steps to further enhance resources for students with the installation of a sophisticated personal hygiene room. Halesowen College’s new, £3m Block 10 is the latest addition to the campus. A key element of the new block is provision of facilities for students with learning disabilities. Main contractor Greswolde Construction turned to leading disabled toileting solutions provider Clos-o-Mat to supply equipment for a dedicated hygiene room, including a height adjustable changing bench, height adjustable wash basin, hoist and Clos-o-Mat Palma ‘wash and dry’ toilet. *

info@clos-o-mat.com

(

0161 969 1199

Saniflo launches Saniaccess 3 Saniaccess 3 is the perfect macerator for all new domestic installations. Featuring Saniflo noise reduction technology, Saniaccess 3 is designed for use with a single WC, washbasin, shower and bidet. Saniaccess is unique in so far as it has two separate chambers, one for the motor and one for the pressure switch. In most instances the unit does not need to be disconnected from the toilet for routine checks. Saniaccess 3 pumps waste up to 5m vertically, 100m horizontally, or a lesser combination of both, allowing for great flexibility and can comfortably take a maximum incoming water temperature for short periods of up to 35°. *

sales@saniflo.co.uk

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020 8842 0033

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W+W conserves water and space With almost 12,000 litres of water per year flushed by a standard six-litre toilet cistern, Roca urges public sector specifiers to make sustainable choices as volumes of water can be saved in the bathrooms of public buildings. Dual flush systems from Roca go as low as 3 litres and can save up to 5840 litres a year. The latest sustainable trend however, is recycling, with grey or rainwater used to flush the toilet. Roca’s innovative W+W uses water from the wash basin to flush the toilet, conserving space as well as water, reducing water usage by up to 25 per cent compared to a standard 6/3 litre dual-flush WC. (

 enq 028 01530 830080 8 www.uk.roca.com

Public Sector Build Journal 43

Floors, Walls & Ceilings membrane – Mapeproof ESM – was applied, followed by Mapei Eco Prim T; a very low VOC primer which was used to improve the adhesion of the levelling compound. Mapei Latexplan Trade levelling compound was then installed, which provided low odour and high compressive strength benefits.

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To facilitate the installation of the vinyl floorcovering to the new substrate – and eliminate potential health hazards – Baker Flooring used Mapei’s Ultrabond Eco VS90 – a HT non-toxic, non-flammable adhesive which provides high coverage and a strong bond able to withstand intense levels of foot traffic. Within the school’s classrooms and corridors, Baker Flooring utilised Mapei’s Ultrabond Eco Tack adhesive to install 7000m2 of carpet tiles. Alongside environmentally friendly properties, the product provides a permanently tacky film once dried, which allows removal and replacement of carpet tiles, as required. All Mapei Ultrabond Eco adhesives are solvent-free with low emissions of VOC. 

Within the school’s classrooms and corridors, Baker Flooring utilised Mapei’s Ultrabond Eco Tack adhesive to install 7000m2 of carpet tiles

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info@mapei.co.uk ( 0121 508 6970

Inspirational green campus A complete system of eco-friendly Mapei products has contributed to a BREEAM rating of 'Excellent' at Highfields and Penn Fields School. Located in Penn, Wolverhampton, the dual facility occupies a single site joined by a 'campus core'.

he £42m rebuild project included installation of approximately 15,000m2 of vinyl flooring and carpet tiles, with Mapei products used to prepare the new power floated concrete substrate and install the floorcoverings. Floor preparation and installation were carried out by Baker Flooring, for the main contractor, Carillion. The Highfields and Penn Fields campus incorporates a 1500-place secondary school with a 160-place special needs

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facility. The inspiring learning environment is arranged around paired tapering wings of learning spaces with dramatic ‘heart spaces’ occupying double and triple height roof-lit and naturally ventilated spaces, and framing accessible outdoor classrooms. Vinyl floorcoverings, totaling an area of 8000m2, were specified within the schools’ science labs, changing rooms, WC areas and staircases. Prior to installation, Mapei’s two-component, solvent free damp proof

Vinyl floorcoverings, totaling an area of 8000m2, were specified within the schools’ science labs, changing rooms, WC areas and staircases

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The MCIAT Professional Assessment

– a new qualifying route What is the MCIAT Professional Assessment?

The MCIAT Professional Assessment is a flexible, rigorous, robust and quality assured qualifying process, based on performance and designed to recognise the diversity of Architectural Technology. Candidates must provide an in-depth critical analysis clearly summarising their professional experience. This should be a reflective report and should refer to challenges and successes encountered whilst working on projects and how any issues were resolved. Applicants should also undertake a self-evaluation highlighting their strengths and weaknesses in relation to their area(s) of practice. The Professional Assessment process is based on four core competencies: • Designing • Managing • Practising • Developing (self)

Who can apply for the MCIAT Professional Assessment? Any applicant working in or on, for example, academia, general practice, component design, refurbishment, small residential projects, large commercial projects etc within Architectural Technology, should be able to apply their own experience to the Professional Assessment process, but they must hold one of the following membership grades: ACIAT, TCIAT or profile candidate. Each application will be assessed on its merit. However, each applicant will need to demonstrate a sufficient level of knowledge and understanding and professional competence/experience in relation to their sphere/s of practice and demonstrate to the Institute they can meet the expectations of a Chartered Architectural Technologist, MCIAT.

How much does it cost? To apply for the Professional Assessment, applicants are required to pay £300 for the assessment of the application and the Professional Assessment Interview.

For further information email our Membership Director, James Banks via james@ciat.org.uk or call us on +44(0)20 7278 2206

Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Yeoman Shield provides long term solution to damage Yeoman Shield, a market leader in wall and door protection has been supplied and installed at The Sutton Academy, Merseyside.Yeoman Shield HessianEx wall panelling, External Corner Angles and FalmouthEx panels (in Lilac) were fitted on the ground and first floor corridors and also in the plaza and waiting areas. Site Manager, Steve Humphreys, explains: “We wanted to stop the need for costly and repetitive re-decoration. Yeoman Shield has provided us with a long term solution and has resulted in many complimentary comments on the improved appearance where Shield products have been installed.”

sallyann@yeomanshield.com

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0113 279 5854

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Interface inspires university transformation Following a £180m investment in facilities at Birmingham City University, carpet tiles from global flooring manufacturer, Interface, were used to transform the University’s city centre campus located in the Eastside regeneration zone. Associated Architects, who led the project, specified over 8000m2 of Interface modular carpet tiles from its Transformation range which were selected for the first phase of the city centre campus development. A neutral colour tone was used throughout the building, creating an attractive yet practical design. Earthy colours of Fern and Steppe from Interface’s Transformation range were used to achieve a subtle contrast, for added texture and style. *

interface.uk@interfaceflor.eu

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0161 817 6600

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F. Ball creates an A* floor finish

A range of high performance subfloor preparation products from F. Ball and Co., have been used in the recent renovations at the Cornwall College Camborne Campus. F. Ball products, including the latest generation smoothing underlayment, Stopgap 1200 Pro, and new, rapid drying waterproof surface membrane, Stopgap F78, from the leading flooring product manufacturer, were used to create a durable, attractive finish in the classrooms, corridors and canteen areas of the campus. Stopgap F78 is the first water-based moisture management system from F. Ball, and offers protection against residual construction moisture up to relative humidity levels of 95% in almost any flooring installation. (

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 enq 033 01538 361633 * mail@f-ball.co.uk

Making water sculpture safe

Academy keeps the faith A London academy has put its faith in Tarkett after the company expanded its range of vibrant sports flooring colours. Tarkett has extended its Omnisports collection by adding 13 new bright and engaging colours to put functional aesthetics back at the heart of sports centre design. One place already benefiting from the expanded colour range is St Michael’s and All Angels Academy in Camberwell, London. The academy includes a sports hall and gymnasium – fitted with 700m2 of Omnisports Reference in Sky Blue. Omnisports Reference was selected due to its added 6.5mm transparent vinyl wear layer – ideal for a busy school environment where the floor will experience heavy footfall every day. (

 enq 034 01622 854040 * uksales@tarkett.com

46 Public Sector Build Journal

Heronrib barefoot matting from Plastic Extruders is keeping visitors safe as they experience the innovative ‘Appearing Rooms’ water fountain sculpture by Danish artist Jeppe Hein outside the Southbank Centre in London. This innovative mix of architecture and sculpture, which creates rooms via thin jets of water, is a huge hit with both children and adults alike. The safety matting was commissioned directly by Southbank Centre after earlier experience with Heronrib matting proved very effective in this high pedestrian traffic area. An important benefit is that the matting is impregnated with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal additives which make it hygienic for bare feet. *

enquiries@plastex.co.uk

(

01268 571116

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Harmony Collection reflects woodland trend Kährs’ new Harmony Collection reflects the key trend for rustic natural surfaces with subtle design features. The cost-effective range includes 14 designs, each crafted in Sweden from sustainable European oak and ash. Hand-brushing removes pulpy softwood to expose natural graining and annual rings, which reinforce the natural look. Some designs are bevelled and smoked to add further distinction. Each design from the Collection features Kährs ethical, high performance construction. Based on Kährs original design, patented in 1941, it uses sustainable hardwood down to the floor’s joint. This method, alongside Kährs Woodloc 5S joint, provides greater stability, promotes fast installation and eliminates gapping throughout the lifetime of the floor. *

sales@kahrs.co.uk

(

023 9245 3045

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Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Keep things moving with Sommerfeld

Sporting daylight Kalwall diffused daylighting is playing a major role at Wakefield’s new Sun Lane Leisure Centre designed by the NPS Group. Kalwall is used for translucent floor to ceiling walls in the Centre’s gymnasium and at clerestory height over the pool. The light diffusing qualities of the product is ideal for sports halls because it eliminates stark contrasts of light and shadow and creates an ideal playing surface. It is of particular benefit for swimming pools because the diffused daylight eliminates glare and veiling on the water which means that lifeguards can see underwater swimmers better. (

 enq 037 01233 501504 * mail@structura.co.uk

Yeoman Shield, a market leader in wall and door protection has been supplied and installed at The Sutton Academy, Merseyside.Yeoman Shield HessianEx wall panelling, External Corner Angles and FalmouthEx panels (in Lilac) were fitted on the ground and first floor corridors and also in the plaza and waiting areas. Site Manager, Steve Humphreys, explains: “We wanted to stop the need for costly and repetitive re-decoration. Yeoman Shield has provided us with a long term solution and has resulted in many complimentary comments on the improved appearance where Shield products have been installed.” *

info@sommerfeld.co.uk

(

01952 503737

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Mapetherm gains Energy Saving Trust certification Following a £180m investment in facilities at Birmingham City University, carpet tiles from global flooring manufacturer, Interface, were used to transform the University’s city centre campus located in the Eastside regeneration zone. Associated Architects, who led the project, specified over 8000m2 of Interface modular carpet tiles from its Transformation range which were selected for the first phase of the city centre campus development. A neutral colour tone was used throughout the building, creating an attractive yet practical design. Earthy colours of Fern and Steppe from Interface’s Transformation range were used to achieve a subtle contrast, for added texture and style. *

info@mapei.co.uk

(

0121 508 6970

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Public Sector Build Journal 47

Fire Protection typical of the ‘high rise’ period. This twelve storey tower block contains a total of 98 flats and forms part of the Sceaux Gardens Estate, Camberwell. The design of each flat is made up of two bedroom maisonette apartments, of a distinctive ‘scissor’ design. Each flat entrance is located from the right or left side of a central access corridor. Although the fire exit provisions were included in the original design, an investigation by The London Fire Brigade revealed that Lakanal House had been identified as being at risk of enabling a fire to spread if one should occur in any one of the flats.

Identifying factors

The use of passive and active fire suppression measures and better education and understanding of individual responsibilities all play a role in ensuring high fire safety standards

Shortly after the fire, the chairman of the London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority, said: “In blocks such as this one you should be safe for an hour before fire jumps from floor to floor. That wasn’t the case in these circumstances and I think we need to know why the fire spread so quickly.” A number of architects raised particular questions about the materials used in the 1959 building, including modern plastic window frames and facades. The Government commissioned an immediate investigation that was published, only 21 days after the fire itself. The report established the key factors that contributed to this tragedy and outlined the main issues to be addressed. However, despite the immediacy of the initial report, it was apparent that further research was required

Life-saving material upgrades Are towering infernos a thing of the past? It would seem not - people's lives are still being put at risk. Here, Envirograf recalls the fire of Lakanal House in which 6 people died, in part due to the building's inadequate fire retardant materials and preventative measures.

ilburn Park Tower Block, Norbiton Tower Block, 34th Floor Flat Fire In Canary Wharf, High Rise Flat Fire in Newton Heath, Fire at Apartment Block in Salford – these are just a few examples taken in September from the Fire Brigade website of how this problem has not gone away, and we must upgrade our tower blocks to prevent a lethal disaster

48 Public Sector Build Journal

happening like Lakanal House. On 3 July 2009, one of the most terrible fires seen in recent years broke out in one of the flats of Lakanal House in London, killing 6 people including a three week-old baby, a six-year old, a seven-year old child. At least 20 people were reported to have been taken to hospital. Lakanal House was built in 1959 and is

The fire safety of any premises depends on a range of interdependent factors

Fire Protection to establish why and how the fire spread in the manner in which it did. Although the Chief Fire Officers Association (CFOA) agreed with the initial areas of consideration identified in the report, none of these were new in themselves. The fire safety of any premises depends on a range of interdependent factors, from the design of the building, the materials used, the quality of the workmanship, the maintenance of the structure and the training given to the residents. As the report suggests, third party accreditation, the use of passive and active fire suppression measures and better education and understanding of individual responsibilities under the Fire Safety Order would all play a role in ensuring high fire safety standards.

Implement recommendations Intumescent Pillows

had found every possible void, allowing it to spread. Envirograf also inspected Marie Curie, the sister block and were asked to advise on how the block could be made fire safe, to ensure this type of fire spread would never happen again. Having completed the inspection a full report was submitted stating the recommendations required to make these buildings fire safe. Southwark Council and Morrison Construction then commissioned

Envirograf to fully implement the recommendations and asked for installation works to commence as soon as possible.

Resident safety All installation works were carried out by NAPFIS trained installers, which included riser cupboards (upgrading pipes and cables penetrations), existing suspended ceilings (penetration to other dwellings), front doors to each dwelling plus internal doors, fire breaks every 10m above new suspended ceilings, riser cupboard doors and voids in riser dwellings. Envirograf products installed included AM Intumescent mastic, IS60 Intumescent slab, LBL1 Intumescent letter box liner, IS14/S Intumescent fire and smoke seals, SCH self closing hinges, Intumescent wraps, Intumescent pillows, and 80 minute 1.5 Graphite cloth applied to the underside of staircase sections. After the successful completion of the Marie Curie block, Envirograf has continued to work with Southwark Council and Morrison Construction on nearly twenty other blocks of flats that are under Southwark Council’s jurisdiction, helping to keep tower blocks in London fire safe for residents to enjoy for many years to come.

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With this in mind Southwark Council contacted Envirograf to consult and supply the appropriate passive fire systems to upgrade the whole estate, ensuring effective fire stopping if unfortunately another fire was to occur. An Envirograf Technical Fire Consultant was contacted by Southwark Council (environment and Housing Asset Management) and invited to a site meeting at Lakanal House; also attending were representatives from the London Fire Brigade and the main contractor, Morrison. After an initial investigation of the Lakanal House site it was clearly visible that the fire

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Intumescent Slabs

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sales@envirograf.com ( 01304 842555

Public Sector Build Journal 49 55

Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

Sika Sarnafil keeps Leeds arena pitch perfect Leeds Council's striking new arena has been crowned with a 7500m 2 Sika Sarnafil single ply roofing system, installed by experienced contractor Lakesmere. Alongside main contractor BAM Construction and architects Populous, Lakesmere saw the project become its first fully Building Information Modelling (BIM) integrated contract to date, with a collaborative working practice between

all teams involved in the project being essential to its successful delivery. Working closely with BAM, Lakesmere devised a specification to satisfy the vision of the extensive design team, as well as providing a practical and economic solution.

( 01603 709360

* sarnafilroofing@uk.sika.com

Purely academic with Bradite

Cladit exterior finish from Bradite is now gracing the exterior of three buildings on the Derby Road Campus of West Nottinghamshire College and Vision West Notts further education college. Waterbased Cladit from Bradite was specified by contractors DSW Holding Limited for all of the recoating work. The product is a water thinned polyurethane acrylic finish that according to Dave Woods of DSW offered the best solution in terms of long lasting protection and easy maintenance. Cladit has been specifically formulated to revitalise metal cladding – the single water-pack polyurethane acrylic is easy to apply and can offer a 10-year maintenance cycle. (

 enq 043 01248 600315 * info@bradite.com

50 Public Sector Build Journal

With its unique honeycombed external facade and kaleidoscope lighting, the UK’s first ‘fan shaped’ arena has quickly become one of Yorkshire’s most iconic buildings. The 13,500-capacity concert and events venue plays an important role in the regeneration of the Claypit Lane area of Leeds, as well as boosting the city’s economy through tourism and employment. Due to the close proximity to residential areas, the Lakesmere team had to overcome a number of environmental and noise considerations when installing the roof. It was vital that the arena’s roof adhered to criteria set out in Part E of the Building Regulations. By specifying the S327-18EL Copper Patina Sika Sarnafil system along with suitable insulation for the 7500m2 main auditorium roof, it was ensured that the arena achieved the desired acoustic performance in terms of noise breakout and sound reverberation. In keeping with the project’s sustainable design, the roof’s complex gutter system was installed in Sika Sarnafil S327-15EL Light membrane. A further feature is the installation of a small green roof using the Sarnavert System.

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Air-tight membrane used on log cabin The A. Proctor Group recently supplied its Wraptite-SA into a log cabin construction in Corgarff, Aberdeenshire. Wraptite-SA combines the best properties of a vapour permeable membrane and an air barrier in one innovative, self-adhering product. It fully bonds (no mechanical attachment) to almost any substrate for air tightness and ease of installation. Wraptite-SA is designed for use behind rainscreen cladding systems where water resistance and energy efficiency are essential. Doug Irvine from Sylvan Stuart explains: “Continuity in the outer membrane was the only way to achieve air-tightness in the double skin log construction. This is where the Wraptite-SA comes in. It seems to fit the bill perfectly.” *

ask@proctorgroup.com

(

01250 872261

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Clad tidings for Canning Town residents A refurbishment programme carried out by Newham Council has seen the improvement of 15 timber framed properties in Canning Town. Improvement works included the replacement of the timber cladding with PVC-U cladding from Swish Building Products. In addition to the extra thermal insulation offered by the Open V cladding, the substructure was also fitted with 50mm wall insulation, in accordance with Part L (0.2). A breathable vertical membrane was fitted behind the cladding to deter moisture build-up while ventilation grills were installed at roof and ground level to ensure a continuous and clear air path through the cavity. *

information@swishbp.co.uk

(

01827 317200

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Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

Striking texture for 21st Century school External Wall Insulation (EWI) by Saint-Gobain Weber, the leading UK formulator and manufacturer of innovative, high performance materials for the construction industry, has been used extensively in the construction of the new Llanwern High School, Newport, South Wales. Almost 2500m² of weber.therm XM EWI has been installed by applicator M & P Contractors, Tonypandy, for award-winning main contractor Leadbitter, a subsidiary of Bouygues UK. The £30m project, designed by HLM, Cardiff, incorporates state-of-theart facilities for the school’s 1450 pupils. The BBA approved weber.therm XM EWI

* mail@netweber.co.uk

system for Llanwern High School specified 110mm thick mineral fibre slab which was fixed to the substrate with adhesive and two supplementary fixings per board. The first 3mm application of weber.rend LAC, a polymer-modified, cement-based render, is applied followed by meshcloth reinforcement which is encapsulated in a further 3mm coat of weber.rend LAC to form a 6mm total coat. When dry the surface is primed with weber PR310, a pigmented primer. A decorative finish is achieved with weber.plast TF150 for a fine textured, highly weather resistant surface.

The lightweight weber.therm XM EWI system, which is Energy Saving Trust recommended, provides excellent thermal insulation, with a very comfortable U-value of 0.28 W/m²K achieved in the construction of the new High School. The Llanwern High School has been designed to be at the heart of the community of Newport with facilities that are available to local business, sports clubs and community groups. For pupils the school provides a vibrant and stimulating learning environment.

( 08703 330 070

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Online Enquiry 047

Online Enquiry 048 Public Sector Build Journal 51 55

HVAC

Raising the standards of indoor air

RENSON provides window vents, louvre panels and continuous louvre systems that ventilate buildings and meet the acoustic requirements. An extensive R&D department has all of the latest technologies in order to accomplish the necessary analysis and tests and works together with international organisations to provide innovative solutions. RENSON Fabrications provides these acoustic solutions to the UK construction market.

52 Public Sector Build Journal

properties these systems also block noise. These acoustic blades consist of extruded aluminium sections with an inorganic mineral wool core (not flammable) and a perforated back. They combine a high physical free area with an excellent sound reduction. Today, RENSON offers a complete set of louvre panels and acoustic Linius solutions with noise insulation Rw (C;Ctr) ranging from 6 to 17 dB: System Louvre 445/86 Linius® L.060AC Louvre 447/150 Linius® L.170ACS Louvre 446/150 Linius® L.150ACS Louvre 447/225 Linius® L.060AC Louvre 445/86 Linius® L.170ACL Louvre 446/300 Linius® L.150ACSV

Linius L.150ACL blades were used for the Elbe Einkaufszentrum (mall) in Hamburg, Germany

Pitch of Blades

Visual Free Area

Physical Free Area

Noise Insulation (dB)

60mm

74%

34%

6 (-1;-2)

170mm

59%

37%

9 (0;-1)

150mm

54%

34.3%

11 (-1;-2)

170mm

59%

37%

13 (-1;-3)

150mm

54%

34.3%

15 (-1;-4)

150mm

54%

34.3%

17 (-1;-4)

Linius L.150ACL blades were used for the Elbe Einkaufszentrum (mall) in Hamburg (Germany), where a guaranteed airflow needed to be combined with an excellent sound reduction, as the car park of this mall is right in the middle of the busy centre of town.

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he Invisivent EVO is a self-regulating thermally broken flap ventilator, installed above the window frame. This vent allows you to ventilate your building without any disturbing influence from outside noises – as it is the acoustic version Invisivent EVO AK. This acoustic window vent, available in versions Basic, High and Extreme offers a maximum airflow of 15.9 l/s/m at 2 Pa and a sound reduction in open position up to 48 dB. This Invisivent EVO AK was used in the Premier Inn in Medway Valley Leisure Park in Rochester, because they provide each room with the necessary acoustic rating specified in the Building Regulations Part E and are visual obtrusive. RENSON Sonovent is a thermally broken acoustic vent, available in 16 different versions, which offers a maximum airflow of 26.7 l/m/s at 2 Pa. Equipped with noncombustible mineral wool as noise-damping material, it provides an excellent sound attenuation figure whilst in open position: up to 56 dB. The BREEAM ‘excellent’ SusCon (Sustainable Construction) Academy uses passive ventilation and natural cooling techniques to minimise the energy needs. The self-regulating Sonovent vent was used to maximise air flow but without compromising the acoustic comfort. The louvres and the Linius continuous louvre system of RENSON are aesthetic aluminium solutions, allowing the passage of air in and out of buildings whilst protecting these buildings and other installations from wind, rain and vermin. They are also ideal for concealing unsightly equipment or facades. Fitted with acoustic

enq 049 info@rensonuk.net ( 01622 754123 

Breeam Suscon Academy using Sonovent acoustic vents

HVAC

Munters helps bring Bronze Age to Orford Museum Munters, a global leader in energy efficient air treatment, ensures year round protection against humidity damage for historical collections at Orford Museum. Situated inside Orford Castle, a historic local landmark built in the 12th Century, display cabinets house historical material found in Orford and the surrounding area in Suffolk. The stone-built and unheated Castle provides very little protection against environmental damage. “A significant volume of moisture is absorbed by the building, especially in the winter when cold temperatures cause condensation to build,” says Jennifer Hall, Orford Museum Curator. To protect these valuable exhibits, Munters installed five MG50 dehumidifiers (one for each display case) to maintain relative humidity levels to 50% RH all year round. This solution enabled Orford Museum to secure a long term loan of a locally-found Bronze Age hoard from Ipswich Museum, as well as protecting artefacts including leather money bags,

metal badges and coins from corrosion and mould. Humidistats fitted inside each case constantly monitor conditions, automatically turning the dehumidifiers on and off as needed while maximising energy efficiency. The MG50 dehumidifiers are easy to move around and small enough so as not to impact on aesthetics and were fitted inside small boxes next to each display case. Michael Flint, Chairman of the Orford Museum says: “The Bronze Age exhibits are an exciting addition to the museum and without Munters it would not have been possible to bring this unique collection home to Orford.”

* dryair@munters.co.uk

( 01480 432243

Xpelair unveils new training centre Xpelair Ventilation Solutions, one of the UK’s leading providers ventilation systems, has opened a new training centre at its Peterborough site following an extensive investment programme. The training centre will be the primary location for the company’s BPEC accredited training scheme, which is an essential qualification for any installer following the reclassification of ventilation installation as ‘notifiable work’ in 2010. The centre will also be used to deliver Xpelair’s comprehensive CPD programmes that are a necessity for architects to maintain their RIBA status and for specifiers to keep abreast of industry developments. The courses discuss ventilation in various environments from residential and industrial, to social and education sectors. * daniela.martino@redringxpelair.com

( 0844 372 7750

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Sentinel Totus 2 shortlisted for HVR awards Vent-Axia’s Sentinel Totus2 Demand Energy Recovery Ventilation (D-ERV) system made the shortlist in year’s HVR Awards. The innovative D-ERV system became a finalist within the ‘Commercial Ventilation Product of the Year’ category of these prestigious industry awards. Integrating the proven Demand Ventilation control concept with high efficiency EC/DC motor technology and a state-of-the-art counterflow heat recovery cell the Sentinel Totus² achieves impressive energy recovery of up to 94%. The Sentinel Totus² also boasts reduced sound levels which are achieved through the use of high density acoustic insulation and efficient air paths which lower turbulence, system noise, and reduce the SFP to below 1.8w/l/s. *

jenny.smith@vent-axia.com

(

0844 856 0590

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Improved air quality for learning Funded by the Government and administered by Lambeth Council, Stockwell Primary School recently underwent a £3.3m expansion. Twelve Strada Oxygen Refresh radiators from Jaga were installed throughout the six new classrooms, which see fresh air extracted from outside through the “groove” in the wall and being drawn across the heat exchanger inside the Strada radiator. The advanced intelligence of the system also automatically regulates the air intake to manage the CO2 in each classroom. Jaga also proposed its Mini Freestanding as the ideal solution to provide perimeter heating against the glazed facades. (

 enq 053 01531 631533 * jaga@jaga.co.uk

Public Sector Build Journal 53 55

Doors, Windows & Balustrades

Selectaglaze awarded return ticket to GWR As part of the 1992 interior refurbishment to Swindon's Grade II* Listed Great Western Railway Central Engine Station, Selectaglaze, a leading designer, manufacture and installer of secondary glazing, treated windows on the south elevation in order to improve noise insulation from the railway lines. Recent rationalisation of English Heritage’s office space around the UK has resulted in an increased number of the organisation’s responsibilities being delivered from The Engine House by over 500 members of staff. This now includes a public access library, dark rooms, photographic conservation laboratories and meeting rooms. To facilitate these extra areas of responsibility the building required further renovation and conversion works which were put out to Public Tender. This included

PDS opens the window on new city homes Performance Doorset Solutions (PDS) has recently provided its best-selling sliding sash windows for a prestigious social housing project in Bradford. Main Contractor Bullock were responsible for carrying out the regeneration work which was ran by incommunities with help from the Homes and Communities Agency and Bradford Council. PDS worked closely with Bullock and supplied 87 sliding sash windows for the front of the building and 108 casement windows for the back. The PDS sash windows are traditional in both appearance and construction, yet offer a host of modern day features and benefits. (

 enq 055 01706 370001 * info@pdsdoorsets.co.uk

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the requirement for “the thermal upgrading of windows by installation of secondary glazing units and draught proofing of windows” to specifications prepared by Oxley Conservation, an historic buildings consultancy. The successful applicant for the secondary glazing element was, again, Royal Warrant Holder, Selectaglaze. A total of 100 sash windows of different sizes were treated using the slim profile Series 20 system for smaller windows and the heavy duty Series 90 range for ‘monumental’ style sash windows some

with curved heads. Low emissivity glass was incorporated throughout to optimise the thermal performance. Each window was individually measured and a bespoke frame made that fitted precisely to ensure a good seal. The windows arrived fully fabricated and were installed quickly and with minimum disruption to the fully functioning office.  *

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enquiries@selectaglaze.co.uk ( 01727 837271

Barnsley chooses Crittall again 80 years on When the original Barnsley town hall was constructed in the 1930s, Crittall steel windows were chosen as the profiles of choice. Having now achieved Grade A listed status, the iconic building is undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment programme spearheaded by the NPS Group for Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council. Crittall recommended its Corporate W20 profiles with special planed down narrow section T bars as the ideal solution. For visual continuity with the original units, the replacement window programme involved open out French casement windows and side hung vents, with horizontal pivots. All windows were externally glazed with narrow sightline insulating double glazed units. *

hq@crittall-windows.co.uk

(

01376 530800

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New free swing door closer Powermatic Free Swing is the latest controlled, concealed door closer to be introduced by Samuel Heath. Connected to the building’s 24-volt fire alarm system, the new door closer can function in the same way as the company’s popular Powermatic door closer or can allow a door to be operated manually and left open as desired once the mechanism has been primed. Ideal for health, psychiatric and elderly care applications, Powermatic Free Swing is totally invisible when the door is closed, assuring a more homely, less institutionalised environment than surface mounted door closers. It also meets relevant fire and accessibility requirements. *

sales@samuel-heath.com

(

0121 766 4200

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Doors, Windows & Balustrades

Flamebreak ticks all the boxes with specifiers As popularity of James Latham's high specification door blanks, Flamebreak, continues to grow, the UK's largest independent timber and panel products distributor, is now offering them directly from stock at every one of its nine nationwide panel sites. Available as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), Flamebreak door blanks are manufactured with a special three layer tri-laminated hardwood timber core, which helps to eliminate gaps, rippling and telegraphing. They are also lightweight, and have an excellent substrate for easy machining and conversion, making them easy to handle and fix. The Flamebreak range boasts an extensive list of industry recognised accreditations and certifications including; British Standard BS476 (Part 22 1987) and BS EN1634 – 1 as

well as PAS23 and PAS24. Flamebreak door blanks also hold DD171 and BS EN 1192 ratings for durability and wear and tear and have been successfully tested to meet the requirements of the BWF Certifire Scheme as well as attaining BMTRADA Q Mark. Plus, the benefits of these high specification door blanks don’t end there. Flamebreak achieves U-values of 0.9/m2K for thermal insulation as well as sound insulation readings as high as 35dB. Latham’s Group Manager for doors, Steven Dennard, says: “The benefits of

Flamebreak door blanks are there for all to see. They boast a long list of technical and environmental features and weighing in at only 31kg each for a plywood faced 2135 x 915 x 44mm, means a single door blank can easily be worked and machined by one man.” Flamebreak door blanks are not only technically superior but also aesthetically superior too and can easily be laminated, painted or veneered.  *

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marketing@lathams.co.uk ( 0116 257 3415

James Tobias launches new sliding door product

Technal glazes award-winning centre The new state-of-the-art National Breeding Centre for Guide Dogs, which features extensive use of Technal’s aluminium window, door and curtain walling systems, has won its first award. Fabricated and installed by Elite Aluminium Systems, Technal’s GEODEMX Visible Grid curtain walling system was used to deliver high levels of natural light to the areas accommodating the dogs and puppies, and the offices. It has created shaped ribbon clerestory glazing, main entrances and other curtain wall screens, contrasting with white render, cedar cladding and profiled metal cladding and roofing. (

 enq 059 01924 232323 * info@technal.co.uk

James Tobias, a leading storagewall manufacturer, has launched a new sliding door product. Complementing the established hinge door variants, the sliding door product is especially suitable for installations where a neat or space-efficient solution is required. The sliding door offers all the established benefits of the James Tobias storagewall range. These include: manufacture using structured aluminium carcass offering up to two-and-a-half times better weight loadings, compared to pegboard systems; full floor-to-ceiling design for 20% better space utilisation and the ability to partition office space; and off-site construction to minimise disruption during installation. *

sales@james-tobias.com

(

01278 437300

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Simple specification with Dorma's new look website Dorma UK and Ireland have launched a new company website – www.dorma.com – providing comprehensive product and service information as well as a wealth of examples of Dorma’s advanced access solutions and services. The site is simpler to use and provides quick access for architects, specifiers and all members of the construction community. Featuring outstanding design, content and functionality, the new site gives improved navigation of Dorma’s extensive product range which has been simplified into three sections: Opening & Closing, Securing and Dividing products. *

info@dorma-uk.co.uk

(

01462 477600

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Public Sector Build Journal 55

Focus & Innovation

Trend makes energy saving a commercial venture Matrix House in Basingstoke is one of the town's most prominent structures and acts as home to a diverse range of companies. When the building owners wanted to improve the efficiency of its plant and make ongoing cost savings, a Building Energy Management System (BEMS) from Trend Control Systems was the first port of call. Sidcup based Powell Systems Engineering is a leading BEMS design, installation and maintenance specialist, and has had a relationship with Matrix House that stretches back over 10 years. The company’s sales director and energy specialist, Wayne Miles, comments: “In early 2003 we were asked to take part in a competitive tender that involved the replacement of a defunct BEMS with one that could offer enhanced energy efficiency, financial savings and increased comfort conditions.” Due to the quality of the products that would be installed to the highest standards, Powell Systems Engineering was awarded the contract to install and maintain a Trend BEMS.

Fast forward to 2009 and facilitated by the savings achieved by the Trend BEMS, a new project was instigated that would make further savings. The first stage involved the replacement of all the TASC drives, changing them to EF1 motors and installing new inverters. While this was fairly straightforward, a more significant challenge involved replacing the motor control centre (MCC) panel. Flexible and versatile enough to control any type of plant, Trend IQ3 controllers are situated in the panel itself and other locations within the building, and a number of motors, drives and I/O modules have also been installed. The project was successfully finished

on time and on budget, with some outstanding results. Miles comments: “Since completion, almost one million kWh of electricity have been saved per year, which provides £80,000 worth of additional savings on top of the £80,000 already annually saved as a result of the initial installation. When it comes to annual carbon emissions, the figure stands at just over 1900 tonnes of CO2, which for a building of its size and use is outstanding.  *

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marketing@trendcontrols.com ( 01403 211888

Public forum results in optimum accessibility

P4 goes from strength to strength P4 Limited (FASTEL), a leading manufacturer and supplier of self testing emergency lighting systems has continued to strengthen its sales team with the appointments of several experienced and talented professionals. P4 offers market leading solutions including the M-web+ and the revolutionary new FASTEL Wireless emergency lighting systems. New appointments, Jenny Orchard, Helen Rosenthal, Steve Rham, Kevin Pearson and Robert Kemp, bring their extensive design, technical and sales experience and knowledge to provide world-class solutions for the public and private sectors in their respective territories. (

 enq 063 01328 850555 * matthew@p4fastel.co.uk

56 Public Sector Build Journal

Involving the public in delivering accessible arts in the Black Country has helped result in ‘world class’ facilities, thanks to the support of Sandwell Council and Closo-Mat. The Public is becoming a creative, community, cultural and business space in West Bromwich using the arts to raise people’s apsirations. The Council consulted with parents and carers of disabled children in the area; as a result, the building now has a stateof-the-art Changing Places accessible toilet. With equipment supplied and installed by Clos-o-Mat, the room is bigger than a conventional accessible toilet, and includes a hoist, privacy screen and adjustable changing bench. *

info@clos-o-mat.com

(

0161 969 1199

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Satisfied builder opts again for Yeoman Rainguard Yeoman Rainguard has been fitted to an impressive house (part of which dates back to the 18th century) as part of a major renovation carried out by Wiltshire based A G Builders. Yeoman Rainguard supplied XL Aluminium 125 x 55mm half round gutter & 75mm diameter downpipe in a special lead grey coloured textured finish. A G Builders, Director, Barry Gill, said: “We have used Yeoman Rainguard on many different projects (including new build and renovation) and have always been satisfied with its products and prices and the service and advice provided by its area sales manager, Tim Hanks.” *

sallyann@rainguard.co.uk

(

0113 279 5854

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Focus & Innovation

Great protection all year round

Faster installation with Atag Q Series rig Atag Heating UK has introduced an enhanced installation rig for its Q Series condensing boiler’s Cascade installations. The rig enables up to three Q Series condensing system models to be installed in a variety of configurations and being only 1.5m in overall height, is particularly suitable where plant headroom is restricted. Advantages of the new rig include faster and easier installation, a reduced surface area requirement and lower maintenance costs. Designed for the larger domestic and smaller commercial properties, Q Series condensing boiler rigs offer modulating outputs from 9.0 to 171.9kW. All models come with a 5-year parts and labour guarantee. (

 enq 066 01243 815770 * info@atagheating.co.uk

Snickers’ high-performance work jackets are well-known for their built-in functionality and practicality to make your workday easier. Designed for maximum freedom of movement and made from highly durable and comfortable materials, they feature dirt-repellent fabrics, cordura reinforcement plus easy-access pockets. The new Craftsman’s Rip-Stop Jacket is ergonomically designed with pre-bent sleeves. It delivers on-the-job warmth wherever you are on site and, with its water-repellent fabric and cosy lining, this jacket is great value for money. The jacket has a high-cut front for easy access to trouser pockets and a longer back for better protection in different working positions. *

info@snickersworkwear.co.uk

(

01484 854788

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PEL Services awarded environmental certification The much sought after BS EN ISO 14001:2004 certification for Environmental Management Systems has been awarded to PEL Services Limited for its design, supply, installation, commissioning and maintenance services for public address, fire alarm, security and communications equipment. PEL is committed to reducing its impact on the environment and has implemented a number of procedures to minimise energy usage and waste. This has involved reusing 90% of all packaging material, the use of energy efficient vehicles and logical planning of service visits within a localised area to reduce journey times, fuel usage and emissions. *

info@pel.co.uk

(

020 8839 2100

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Zaun launches innovative plastic fencing A fencing system made from recycled waste plastics that can soak up flying fragments while deflecting noise has been developed by perimeter systems manufacturer Zaun. Zaun has installed its DBS system for the first time at Fresh Wharf, a former brown-field industrial site in Barking, to stop the estate having to regularly replace a bus shelter which was previously being shattered by stone chips thrown up by passing vehicles on the adjacent A406 North Circular Road. Meanwhile the Chobham Academy, a legacy school built on the London 2012 Olympic Park, has chosen Zaun’s DBS acoustic fencing to reduce the impact of noise from the nearby Tube line. *

sales@zaun.co.uk

(

01902 796699

£50m to help companies save energy Voltage optimisation specialist, EMSc (UK) has £50m funding available for administration to public and private sector companies wishing to invest in implementing specific energy saving technologies. The £50m is for technologies that can deliver a return on investment within a 5 year period. The funds are only available for the top three technologies – Voltage Optimisation, LED lighting and Variable Speed Drives (VSD’s) – as they have been proven to provide the highest energy savings. Applications for the funding can only be made through EMSc (UK) until the 31st of December 2013 and will be subject to status and approval. 8

www.ems-uk.org

(

01142 576200

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Record order for school buildings The increasing demand for school places has resulted in a record number of orders over the past year for interim classroom buildings from Portakabin, the UK’s leading modular building manufacturer. In the last 12 months, Portakabin has worked with more than 300 primary and secondary schools and colleges, delivering around 400 interim classroom buildings to accommodate up to 10,000 pupils and students. All interim facilities provided by Portakabin are designed and constructed to permanent standards and in line with the latest Department for Education guidelines for teaching and learning. The buildings incorporate design best practice, current thinking on antibullying strategies and generously-sized, light, modern classrooms. (

 enq 071 0845 401 0010 information@portakabin.co.uk

Public Sector Build Journal 57

Focus & Innovation

Fila's efflorescence-blocker gives damp solution

Seamless service from Contour Casings Contour Casings delivered a complete survey, design, manufacture and installation package for its pioneering Architectural Aluminium range at the new state-of-the-art Surbiton Health Centre. The range consisted of Aluminium parapet wall coping, bullnose fascia, column casings and rainwater goods. Contour worked alongside main contractor Willmott Dixon and roofing subcontractor Roofline to deliver a complete survey to install Architectural Aluminium package, helping streamline operations on site. Contour offers full site surveys, advanced design and manufacture, independent materials testing, short lead times, dedicated technical support and delivery departments and an accredited nationwide installation service. ( *

 enq 072 01952 290498 enquiries@contourcasings.co.uk

Fila’s PW10 offers a safe and permanent solution to tile streaks and stains caused by moisture. The low VOC, solventfree product is designed for the professional treatment of absorbent materials, including stone and terracotta. Applied to the back of tiles before installation, it permanently stops efflorescence salts, tannin and metals from rising through the substrate to the tile surface, whilst allowing the material to breathe. Offered as part of Fila’s maintenance range, Fila PW10 is suitable for internal and external surfaces, including: natural stone, granite, marble, agglomerates, terracotta and other absorbent materials. It provides high performance protection without altering appearance or forming a surface film. *

filauk@filasolutions.com

(

01584 877286

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Helifix BowTie - the solution for bowed building walls The recently upgraded BowTie HD, from masonry repair specialist Helifix, is the ideal solution to the problem of bulging and unstable building walls. Fully concealed once installed, it rapidly restores structural stabilisation by securing the wall to internal joists or rafters without the need for any unsightly tie bars or pattress plates. Its heavy duty, unique rolled profile with self-cutting end, mechanically connects floor joists or roof timbers. It provides stiffness, generally without the need to install noggins or additional bracing and, once bonded into the masonry, reliably connects the walls to the internal wood frame. *

info@helifix.co.uk

(

020 8735 5200

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Foremans supplies new space for specialist centre Foremans Relocatable Building Systems, the UK’s largest supplier of refurbished Portakabin buildings, has completed a new facility to meet the increased demand for a specialist charity. FiND2 in Beverley, East Yorkshire, offers day services for young adults with learning disabilities and autism and demand for places is growing. Foremans worked with the charity to help meet its tight budget for new facilities as part of its on-going commitment to supporting local community initiatives. The new scheme has provided an extension to the Belprin Road centre. Features include a kitchen where students who are developing skills they may need for living away from the family home can learn to cook and use household appliances. *

info@foremansbuildings.co.uk

(

01964 544344

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Portakabin gains accreditation for customer service Portakabin has been awarded Customer Service Excellence (CSE) accreditation – the Government standard which assesses and recognises organisations with outstanding performance in customer service. David Shaw, Marketing Director of the Portakabin Group, said: “Our aim has always been to have the customer at the heart of everything we do, and we have a host of initiatives and processes in place to help us deliver a truly customer-focused service and culture across the business. This latest accreditation gives us independent recognition of our performance excellence in this area and against national standards.” *

information@portakabin.co.uk

58 Public Sector Build Journal

(

0845 401 0020

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Yorkon launches new CPD programme Off-site construction specialist, Yorkon, a member of the Portakabin Group, has launched a new CPD training programme to help educate architects, contractors, engineers, facilities managers and other building professionals about working with modular construction. The RIBAaccredited seminar looks at how to get the best out of off-site construction and the latest innovations and technical advancements in modular technology. (

 enq 077 01904 610990 * info@yorkon.com

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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, your residents will have more ways to enjoy the TV they want to watch. And that makes your properties even more attractive to potential buyers.

Go to sky.com/newbuild or call 08442 410 389 Sky TV: Sky box and Sky TV subscription required for customers to receive Sky digital programming. Two satellite feeds required for full Sky±HD functionality. Installation of an IRS system is subject to survey. General: Calls cost up to 5.1p per minute and up to 15p connection fee for BT customers. Calls from other providers may vary. Correct at 3 July 2013.

Online Enquiry 079