PSBJ October 2013 by Red Hut Media Ltd

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October 2013

Ambitious construction

Design and function combine to meet challenging brief

Added value the power of a procurement consortium

Living with longevity H+H discusses the lifespan of housing

Accurate placement looking beyond specification for safety

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Cover image

The new St Catherine’s Health Centre certainly has a very distinctive facade with its DNA profile inspired cladding. But its beauty isn’t just skin deep. See page 08.

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

Editor Hannah Frackiewicz hannah@mixedmediainfo.com Managing Director Sam Ball sam@mixedmediainfo.com Publication Manager Steve Gull steve@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

Social housing tenants are being encouraged to voice their housing needs following Communities Minister Don Foster’s recent announcement that he is taking action to increase the number of tenant organisations across England. This will give social tenants a greater say in how to run their community. To boost numbers of tenant organisations the government is providing £400,000 for at least 1200 delegates to attend training courses in how to set up organisations, to influence landlords and to lead their communities. This latest initiative will mean that tenant panels can challenge poor services and hold landlords to account for not providing proper services. Tenant management organisations can exercise their right to take over responsibility for the management of housing services such as repairs, maintenance, caretaking, rent collection and security. In this month’s issue, we feature a timely project detailing how one Local Authority has actively encouraged a housing community to refurbish its properties. Despite the homes being privately owned, the partnership between Knowsley Council and Kirby’s regeneration has enabled a successful delivery. Turn to page 32 to read more. Elsewhere in this issue, PSBJ’s Healthcare feature focuses on one of the key building components specified to maintain a hygienic and aesthetic finish. Highlighted through a selection of high profile installations, rubber floorcovering specialist, Nora, discusses why the right flooring choice is integral in healthcare projects. I hope you enjoy this issue. If you wish to comment on any of the topics and contributors featured within this edition, please do not hesitate to get in touch via the email address below.

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 awarded contracts, apprenticeship schemes, training workshops and energy efficiency incentives.

08 Upfront PSBJ takes a look at one of the North West’s most innovative healthcare projects – the redevelopment of St Catherine’s Hospital in Birkenhead.

14 Education

18 Talking Point

22 Storage Systems

Marley Eternit recalls how a Welsh school opted for its authentic slate roofing to blend in with the building’s outstanding surroundings.

Mike Hall of FaulknerBrowns Architects explains how creating legacies for local residents must involve looking beyond the initial ‘wow’ factor.

As a Government Procurement Service (GPS) supplier, Bruynzeel Storage Systems unveils its extensive experience of designing and installing high-density storage systems.

16 Acoustics & Sound

20 Roofing

24 Insulation

Tim Clark, Group Specification Director of Rockwool UK talks to PSBJ about a joint venture between Rockwool and the Noise Abatement Society.

This year Sika Liquid Plastics, pioneer of liquid roofing membranes, celebrates its 50th anniversary. Here the company takes a look at its achievements.

Neil May, Managing Director of Natural Building Technologies, talks to PSBJ about the pitfalls that can develop around improper refurbishment of public housing.

Public Sector Build Journal

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Public Sector Build Journal

The smarter way to access news and products for the sustainable building market. With its easy-to-navigate format, users can benefit from a variety of useful tools, such as the magazine’s latest issue, digital archive, suppliers and newsbank. The App is also synced with SBP Library (www.sustainable-buildingproducts.com) providing an essential specification portal.

28 Healthcare

40 Leisure

Rubber flooring expert Nora highlights how architects, specifiers and contractors can successfully achieve design-led healthy buildings, with a superior aesthetic finish.

Changing cubicle specialist Washroom Washroom discusses the important elements within family-friendly leisure facilities, including colour and layout.

32 Housing

42 Building Access

Unlike other projects under CESP, the Kirkby programme represents one of the biggest private housing projects to be completed under the scheme in the UK.

Alastair Stannah, Managing Director of Stannah Lifts Limited, examines the imperative to provide â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;access for allâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in public institutions throughout the UK.

36 Heating & Plumbing

44 Product Showcase

The specification of radiators has evolved prompting a heated debate over compatibility with boilers. Nick Whitwell, Managing Director of Quinn Radiators explains further.

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

42 28

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News

South West Energy Centre launched Over 400 members of the public were the first to visit the eagerly awaited South West Energy Centre, at White Rock, Long Road, Paignton during its Launch Day recently. The Centre, which is part of South Devon College, was buzzing with people interested in reducing their energy costs, seeking out new technologies and seeing renewable technologies in action. The Centre is now open for individuals, community representatives and businesses to drop in, phone or email the Centre to find out more from experts about anything energy related. Paddy McNevin, the Centre Director, commented: “It was great to see so many people from the community coming along and helping us celebrate the launch of the South West Energy Centre at South Devon College. We can now start the hard work of helping businesses to grow and create jobs in the South West. “The centre will also be a place for consumers to visit and get valuable advice and guidance on issues such as energy bills, low carbon technologies and tackling fuel poverty.”

build, construct or renovate in the coming years. The Government Construction Pipeline is reviewed every six months to ensure new opportunities are reflected and more details are provided as they emerge. It has now been updated following the Spending Round for 2015/16 to include further programmes and projects up to 2020 and beyond.

Willmott Dixon to create centre of excellence Willmott Dixon has been appointed by St Albans City and District Council for a £6m contract to rebuild Batchwood Sports Centre which was destroyed by fire in August 2011. Designed by AFLS+P architects, the new Batchwood Sports Centre will be an East of England regional centre of excellence that will attract top athletes. It will include six indoor tennis courts, a special judo dojo facility plus a range of multi-purpose facilities suitable for several sports activities. Councillor Mike Wakely, Portfolio Holder for Sports, Leisure and Heritage for St Albans City and District Council, said: “Batchwood Sports Centre will have a greater variety of sports facilities than its predecessor which was destroyed in the fire. There will be enhanced facilities for the high performance tennis centre, where potential tennis stars of the future will be coached. In addition, there will specialist judo facilities and the gym and squash courts will be refurbished.”

Cabinet office unveils £109bn of future opportunities Barbour ABI has published details of £109bn of government construction contracts on behalf of the Government. It includes planned projects and programmes up to 2020 and beyond. Barbour ABI has collected, collated and published the data, which is available on a new website www. uk-cip.org.uk. Information on opportunities to win future government construction contracts worth over £109bn will help suppliers to plan ahead, invest in and grow their businesses. Industry can use the forward-looking information – published on a new online portal available today – to plan for the future based on what government proposes to

Public Sector Build Journal

United House wins contract with Family Mosaic Leading developer and contractor United House has won a contract to build 52 new homes in Islington, North London for housing provider Family Mosaic. United House has been awarded the contract, worth £7.8m, for the second phase of a new mixed tenure residential

development in Courtauld Road, designed by Stephen Davy Peter Smith and Pollard Thomas & Edwards architects. The site is split into two sections, East site and West site, currently occupied by light industrial and residential buildings. United House will undertake the refurbishment of an existing Victorian warehouse to create 15 new apartments, along with the construction of four new blocks to deliver a total of 52 homes: 20 for general rent, 10 shared ownership and 22 for private sale. The new buildings will achieve Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4 and the development will also provide integrated refuse space and secure cycle storage.

Plans unveils for UK's first office-to-resi rental block London-based Essential Living has unveiled designs for its first office-to-residential rented housing scheme in the heart of Maidenhead, Berkshire. The plans, submitted last week to the council, would see Berkshire House, a 12-storey office building transformed into a striking centrepiece for the town centre. Essential Living has teamed up with ADZ Architects to design what is hoped could be the standard-bearer for future market rent developments across the UK. The striking external design features a stainless steel mesh-like frame wrapped around a glass and steel building in an eggshaped expression. The overhaul is a far cry from the 1960s concrete block, which currently blights the town centre now. The revamped Berkshire House will be one of the first UK blocks designed for renting from the ground up. Built to investment grade quality, it will feature a host of on-site amenities, as part of Essential Living’s ambition to transform renting into a lifestyle choice, rather than a stop-gap to ownership.

News

Birmingham's new library safeguarded by MAN The £188.8m Library of Birmingham officially opened last month after being safeguarded by MAN Commercial Protection since work started in January 2010. Carillion – Birmingham City Council’s construction partner – appointed national service provider MAN Commercial Protection to take on the full scope of security during the library’s construction. At times this encompassed adjusting for events at the neighbouring International Convention Centre including party political conferences. Robert Yates, Quantity Surveyor at Carillion, explains: “We have used the services of MAN Commercial Protection throughout the construction process of the library and have always found them to be professional and accommodating.” Located in Centenary Square, Birmingham’s new library will be the largest public library in Europe and is expected to attract 3.5 million visitors annually. Iain McCallister, founder of MAN Commercial Protection, says: “This is such a prestigious project and it’s in my home town. I’m so proud that our team’s professionalism has never wavered given the challenges they’ve overcome.”

New apprentices kickstart training at 4 Life Academy Willmott Dixon continues to invest in the future of the construction industry with its repairs and maintenance company Willmott Dixon Partnerships inducting 16 new apprentices at the 4 Life Academy in Birmingham. The 4 Life Academy will be the hub for their training on the company’s new Skills 4 Life apprenticeship programme. It will support their studies in a variety of construction trades from bricklaying, plumbing and carpentry to electrical work as they progress towards a recognised qualification such as an NVQ

that will pave the way for a career in the construction industry. During their week-long induction the apprentices, aged between 18 and 38, took part in health and safety workshops, scaffolding building exercises and team competitions. They were also given an illustration of the company’s charitable work by hearing a talk from volunteers at Dekamile, one of Willmott Dixon’s sponsored charities that helps provide clean water, sanitation and improved infrastructure in Togo, Africa.

Biomass gets full marks LC Energy, a specialist in sustainable wood fuel supply, has seen a year on year rise in the numbers of schools fitting biomass boilers across the South East, with most reporting thousands of pounds worth of savings on their heating bills. As well as developing a leading reputation for the supply of biomass wood fuel solutions – including design and feasibility, service and maintenance – LC Energy has been recognised1 for its policy of supplying wood chip and pellet fuel which is sustainably harvested and sourced locally. The company suggests that the rise in popularity of biomass in schools can, in part, be explained by the introduction of the Government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) 3. Introduced in 2012 to encourage uptake of renewable heat technologies among communities and businesses, the scheme provides financial incentives to eligible, non-domestic renewable heat generators for the life of the installation or up to a maximum of 20 years. Small-scale users can expect to generate at least the cost of the woodchip or wood pellet fuel each year in incentive payments, and often up to double the value. Payments are linked to the amount of renewable heat generated. Ofgem is responsible for administering the scheme and phase two, which will open the scheme to domestic applications, will launch later this year.

Smart project to offer free workshops ReallySmartHouse, a pioneering and award-winning project aiming to stimulate low-carbon economic growth, has announced a series of free-to-attend workshops on a variety of sustainability topics for built-environment SMEs in the East of England. The project is headed by Southend-on-

Sea Borough Council in partnership with South Essex Homes and London-based architecture, innovation and sustainability consultancy The Facility. Offering a long-term perspective, the ReallySmartHouse workshops provide the skills and knowledge needed for SMEs to operate successfully and profitably in the green business sector with each session covering a key area of importance. Running until December 2013, the workshops will focus on topics such as ‘Local Government Procurement’, ‘Marketing & Business Development’, ‘Building Information Modelling’, ‘Sustainability and The Green Deal’ and ‘Environmental Management and Smart Houses’. As well as gaining a competitive edge, companies that complete 12 hours of training will receive a ReallySmartHouse accreditation as well as the opportunity to attend the ReallySmartHouse Awards ceremony in January 2013.

£14m contract awarded for Emergency Department Balfour Beatty has been awarded a £14.4m contract by the North West London Hospitals NHS Trust to construct a new Emergency Department at Northwick Park Hospital in Harrow. The pavilion style building will provide users with a new walk-in entrance, waiting area, and external drop off area; all with direct and level access to the car park. Enclosed link bridges will connect the new building to other parts of the hospital including acute admissions, paediatrics, the Intensive Treatment Unit and operating theatres. A lower level will provide accommodation such as offices, seminar rooms and the main plant room. Balfour Beatty Engineering Services will deliver the M&E services installation package including modular services units, which are constructed off site, and help to provide high quality, pre-tested services. The modular construction method also helps to reduce installation times and improves safety over in-situ installation methods. Works are scheduled for completion in April 2014.

Public Sector Build Journal

Upfront

Logistical triumph The building comprises five individual wings linked together by an internal street, which joins all the clinical areas

Redeveloping the old St Catherine's Hospital site in Birkenhead was always about more than replacing century old buildings. It presented a unique opportunity to regenerate an entire community, enhance the surrounding physical environment and deliver a £32m health facility by means of a totally new funding model. This month PSBJ takes a look at one of the North West's most innovative healthcare projects.

he new St Catherine’s Health Centre certainly has a very distinctive facade with its DNA profile inspired cladding. But its beauty isn’t just skin deep. The development was recognised as an “exemplar” project in public sector procurement even before its completion. Commissioned by NHS Wirral, this visionary four-storey 11,100m2 facility is built on the historic eight-acre site of the original St Catherine’s Hospital. Healthcare specialist Prime plc, design team One Creative Environments Ltd (One) and Integrated Health Projects (IHP), a joint venture between VINCI Construction UK and Sir Robert McAlpine, are the team that delivered the project, which achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating.

A healing approach St Catherine’s was designed to minimise running costs with a central plant room on the top floor of the main building

Public Sector Build Journal

With a tight planning deadline, the design team One worked closely with all partners to design a scheme that would fulfill a number of criteria, first and foremost,

clinical need. St Catherine’s brings together two local GP practices and c.20 community based NHS services, as well as independent and voluntary sector agencies to provide a ‘one stop shop’ for the local community. Design and access has also played a pivotal role with the architects working hard to deliver a scheme with patient needs and its locality in mind. The building comprises five individual wings linked together by an internal street, which joins all the clinical areas. A central atrium provides the main entrance and exit points, a design that makes navigating around the building easy for any visitor. The rainscreen cladding on the outside of the building also serves as a visual way marker for patients. The colour on the outside of each wing is mirrored inside with signage and interior finishes, such as flooring and feature walls, so patients always know where they are. Instead of having to remember building numbers or

Upfront plans they simply need to remember the colour. Outside, courtyards have been created between wings to provide clinical rehabilitation areas, quiet places for both patients and staff, while a children’s courtyard ensures fun with colourful play surfaces and bright planting. Its distinctive design has earned the new health centre the affectionate name of ‘The Smile’ for the way it naturally curves around the neighbouring Victorian church. The whole site has been opened up, transforming access, while imaginative hard and soft landscaping has created a number of attractive focal points.

Past, present and future Enhancing patient experience even before entering the health centre has been key to this regeneration project. Once hemmed in and bordered by walls or railings on all sides, the Grade II listed St Catherine’s Church has now become a central feature of the development, while opening up the site to create a new public space that connects with the local community. The design of the building also enhances the church’s setting. Four wings of the new building are set out from the church’s spire and because of the site’s sloping terrain, each wing follows a ‘stepped’ design, maximising the opportunities for access that a sloping site presents. While the scheme delivers a modern

The atrium plays an important role in the natural ventilation of the building

primary care hub for the local community, it also respects the heritage of the site. Working closely with the community and the local Birkenhead Historical Society, means a number of important original features have been retained such as the old hospital stone archway (the original Work House entrance), which utilises this feature as one of the main pedestrian entrances to the new development and the old Port House lodge, which has been refurbished and extended for use as a community building.

Using space efficiently

The rainscreen cladding on the outside of the building serves as a visual way marker for patients

The comfort of patients and staff is essential in healthcare buildings, making elements such as heating and natural ventilation key. St Catherine’s was designed to minimise running costs with a central plant room on the top floor of the main building, which serves all five wings and eliminates the need for a separate localised plant. In addition, air and ground source heat

Public Sector Build Journal

Upfront

Its distinctive design has earned the new health centre the affectionate name of The Smile for the way it naturally curves around the neighbouring Victorian church

model is common in other areas of property investment, such as retail, it is a breakthrough for the healthcare sector. While the structure of the NHS may have changed since St Catherine’s was

commissioned, Leighton Chumbley, Managing Director of Prime (UK) Developments Ltd and Development Director on the project believes this type of funding is now more relevant than ever.

pumps have been used to maximise energy efficiency, with the latter being piled deep into the rock below the building. The atrium plays an important role in the natural ventilation of the building. Being a non-clinical transient area means it doesn’t need to be controlled to the same criteria as the clinical areas and natural ventilation turrets were placed on the roof. Their design is a subtle reference to the areas’ shipping port heritage, resembling the funnels of a ship. The four-storey height atrium allows advantage to be taken of thermal buoyancy with hot air extracted and diverted into the heat recovery system to heat the rest of the building.

Healthcare funding first One of the most interesting aspects of the project is the unique way it was funded. Devised by Prime, the Shared Investment Agreement (SIA) between NHS Wirral and Prime is a pioneering funding model not seen in the heathcare sector before. It enabled the PCT to contribute 55% of the capital cost of the development, with the remaining 45% of funding provided by Prime. While this type of shared-ownership

10 Public Sector Build Journal

Outside, courtyards have been created between wings to provide clinical rehabilitation areas

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Upfront “This freedom from established ways of thinking, combined with a new model of funding, could enable a number of public sector bodies, not just those in healthcare to realise key commissions. In this case it certainly shows how the NHS can make the most of existing assets and capital to get “more for less” without compromising on the service vision. “Indeed with the reduced availability of public sector capital but with an increasing level of demand for services, this model provides the flexibility that many public sector organisations are seeking.” Leighton added: “If organisations have access to capital, it can be beneficial to procure projects in their entirety using that cash. However many local authorities, NHS Trusts and other organisations, such as the police and fire service, simply don’t have enough capital to tie up in large scale projects and that’s where this model comes into its own. “Our experience as a skilled, cohesive team – combined with our relationships with investors – means we can offer a well thought out, workable service solution which makes best use of what capital is available, shares the risk, benefits the balance sheet, helps authorities to deliver essential services and eliminates expensive and disruptive phased development over many years.”

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

In many ways St Catherine’s is a testament to the power of expertise and collaboration. Prime was able to use its wealth of experience in property development to ensure a quick and

efficient financial close inside eight weeks. It is a theme that continued throughout construction. Due to careful site planning, services within the existing buildings at St Catherine’s stayed operational throughout construction. While the majority of services were able to undergo a phased move into the building after the completion of phase one last year, the final works, just completed in July, included the demolition of the old buildings on site alongside the creation of new public spaces and outdoor areas.

Lasting legacy

■

While on the face of it the new St Catherine’s Health Centre provides everything the community could need in terms of medical provision, the legacy of the development is much more than that. A master class in working with numerous partners and the local community as well as its use of a pioneering funding model means the award winning St Catherine’s Health Centre is set to be a case study on how a can do attitude and collaborative working really can pay dividends.

The colour on the outside of each wing is mirrored inside with signage and interior finishes

12 Public Sector Build Journal

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Education

Cwmaman infant school lies in the heart of the valley community and the aesthetics of the school building are integral to the architectural heritage of the area

A clean slate In order to complement the stunning backdrop of Welsh countryside, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has chosen Marley Eternit Rivendale fibre cement slates for an authentic, beautiful slate roof finish for a school built in the early 1900s near Aberdare in Wales.

s a Victorian building, Cwmaman infant school’s slate roof had reached the end of its economic lifespan and was starting to leak. It was such a large roof that it would not have been possible to replace it during one single summer holiday period so Rhondda Cynon Taf Council decided to tender the project in two separate phases so as to ensure there was minimum disruption to the school’s function. The council decided to specify Marley Eternit Rivendale fibre cement slates in blue black for the roof following their successful use on a similar project at Rhigos primary school, the previous year. As they did the previous year, the Marley Eternit team visited the Cwmaman infant school site at the outset to carry out a survey and provide a full roof specification for use in the council’s tender. It was identified that the roof was so large that 20,000 Rivendale fibre cement slates were used over the two phases of the project, which was carried out

14 Public Sector Build Journal

building.” The Rivendale fibre cement slate used on Cwmaman school features a finely detailed textured surface and dressed edge. Available in blue/black it helps to satisfy a broad range of planning requirements. Unlike other materials, fibre cement slates do not require wet-cutting due to the composition and

by MA Hartley Roofing Ltd (Phase 1) and V Griffiths Roofing Ltd (Phase 2). Kerry Chinnock, a building surveyor at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, explains: “Cwmaman infant school lies in the heart of the valley community and the aesthetics of the school building are integral to the architectural heritage of the area. The building is not subjected to vandalism and the roof is not easily accessed, therefore we chose the Rivendale fibre cement slates so as to remain in keeping with the original design and the surrounding buildings and still maintaining a cost-effective alternative to natural slate.

Charm and character “We were already pleased with the finish of the new roof at Rhigos primary school so we knew they would be the right aesthetic match for Cwmaman school as well. We’re very pleased with the result, a fantastic looking roof which is fit for purpose and in keeping with the Victorian character of the

Slate has been a fashionable roof covering for centuries and has become a traditional part of the built environment in this country

Education

Recycled content Part of fibre cement’s appeal as a building material is its pure simplicity, consisting of just five key elements – cement, cellulose, synthetic fibres, water and air. The environmental benefits of Marley Eternit’s range of fibre cement roof slates help local authorities and housing associations to meet increasing sustainability targets and achieve higher credits for both BREEAM and the Code for Sustainable Homes. Sarah Harding continues: “The recyclability of products is becoming increasingly important in public sector roofing specification – not only the recycled content of the products themselves but also what

The environmental benefits of Marley Eternit’s range of fibre cement roof slates help local authorities and housing associations to meet increasing sustainability targets

happens to building materials at the end of their life. This is because strict targets set by the EU Waste Directive require 70% of construction and demolition waste to be reused, recycled or recovered by 2020. “With this in mind, fibre cement is a valuable material as it offers sustainability benefits throughout its whole life cycle, due to it being fully recycled at the end of its use because it can be ground down and used to replace limestone and shale in clinker production, the essential ingredient for Portland cement.” Slate has been a fashionable roof covering for centuries and has become a traditional part of the built environment in this country. Over the years, fibre cement slates have become increasingly popular as a cost effective and sustainable alternative to natural slate, particularly in public sector specification

for education, healthcare and housing. The life cycle of construction materials and projects is coming under the spotlight with the advent of Building Information Modelling (BIM), which must be used on all major projects in the public sector by 2016. Specifiers and contractors can now model and prove the environmental impact of their roofing systems using Marley Eternit’s new range of fibre cement slate BIM objects. Alongside high quality 3D renderings, the BIM objects provide detailed dimensions, product specifications, material performance and environmental credentials, helping different organisations across the construction supply chain work together collaboratively to increase operational efficiencies and reduce build costs.

■

workability of the material; they can easily be cut using hand tools such as a scribing tool or guillotine. Sarah Harding, Marketing Manager at Marley Eternit, comments: “Fibre cement slate is an ideal solution when looking to replace existing natural slates, offering a more sustainable and cost effective solution for those seeking to achieve the heritage aesthetic, without having to compromise on performance credentials. “Our fibre cement slates also offer industry leading sustainability credentials. Rivendale has a low carbon footprint of just 13 CO2e /m2 (based on 600 x 300 slate at 100mm lap) and the ability to achieve the best environmental rating (A+) in the BRE Green Guide.”

www.marleyeternit.co.uk

The Rivendale fibre cement slate used on Cwmaman school features a finely detailed textured surface and dressed edge

Public Sector Build Journal 15

Healthcare& Sound Acoustics

Starting a quiet revolution Tim Clark, Group Specification Director at Rockwool UK talks to PSBJ about a joint venture between Rockwool and the Noise Abatement Society. The Noise Manifesto is calling for more stringent laws on noise policy, intends to encourage minimum standards in acoustic protection and develop a Quiet Homes Standard. Sustainable Homes; empowering local authorities to refuse planning permission for developments that are deemed to create a noise issue in the finished buildings; creating tranquil spaces in new developments; zone developments to separate commercial and residential buildings; and introducing a Quiet Homes Standard to identify buildings which meet minimum acoustic protection levels. We would like to see the Government consider these points as part of the National Planning Policy Framework and the Code for Sustainable Homes and while we welcome the Government’s pledge to cut unnecessary red-tape and streamline the development process, we need to strike the balance between cutting planning laws and making them better. The steps outlined in this Noise Manifesto

The partnership strives to introduce a Quiet Homes Standard to identify buildings which meet minimum acoustic protection levels

provide a blueprint for change, and a foundation to drive quieter communities and cut noise pollution in homes, offices, schools and public buildings. We believe a fresh approach to noise is needed and urge the property industry and local authorities to take up the baton and enact these recommendations so that buildings of the future offer better acoustic protection.

■

oise pollution is something that many people will have experienced, either at work or home. And it’s not just a minor irritant; numerous academic studies and a World Health Organisation report show the serious effects on health, impact on children’s educational achievement and damage to quality of life caused by excessive noise in the built environment. As population density continues to grow in urban areas and economic conditions improve, prompting an increase in industrial activity and infrastructure developments, this issue will only become more pressing. In my view the building industry and government need to make tackling noise a fresh priority, by ensuring that buildings adequately protect occupants from noise, and that building regulations provide a level playing field that raise standards across the UK.

Striking a balance Up until now planning laws and guidelines have often ignored the impact and destructive effect noise has on lives, health and education. This is why Rockwool developed the Noise Manifesto jointly with the Noise Abatement Society earlier this year, following a National Noise Summit which brought together 100 property, construction and acoustic industry leaders to discuss how we can make urban areas quieter. Divided into actions for the Government and the property industry, the Noise Manifesto calls for minimum national standards of noise protection in buildings and lays the ground-work for a new Quiet Homes Standard to identify quieter homes, commercial and public buildings in the future. Key recommendations in the Noise Manifesto included: creating a single, national standard for minimum acoustic protection in the design and construction of buildings as part of the National Planning Policy Framework and The Code for

16 Public Sector Build Journal

The Noise Manifesto calls for minimum national standards of noise protection in buildings

www.rockwool.co.uk/noisemanifesto

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Public Sector Build Journal 17

Talking Point

Right on track Landing the opportunity to design an Olympic venue that will stage one of the most globally watched sporting events is an honour for any practice. But, when the medals have been won and the party's over, what's next? Mike Hall, a partner and architect with FaulknerBrowns Architects, explains how designing legacies for local residents must involve looking beyond creating a venue's initial 'wow' factor to achieve lasting success.

rchitects involved in the Olympic master plan can all breathe a sigh of relief – the Games were undoubtedly a real British success story and to have been involved with venues associated with this achievement is a boost for any firm. But now, London 2012 has been and gone, and all eyes are on Rio

with plans in place for the 2016 Olympic Park in Barra da Tijuca. As we look back at London 2012, over a year since the closing ceremony, attention has turned to the Games’ legacy, asking whether the event has lived up to its promises. As architects, I feel we have a responsibility in delivering this legacy. We

bring ideas to life and realise visions. Yet, all too often, the vision ends there – the venue has served its purpose. What is required is the correct balance between permanent and temporary facilities. What we need to see is these permanent venues being put to good use, inspiring the next generation of sporting excellence My team and I at FaulknerBrowns were behind the £31m Olympic white water centre. The Lee Valley White Water Centre, home to London 2012’s canoe slalom events, was the world-class venue where Team GB scooped a gold and a silver in Canoe Slalom. The centre comprised of a 300m Olympic standard canoe course, a 160m training course with ‘start’ and ‘finish’ pools, as well as support accommodation and temporary seating for 12,000 spectators. The life of the Centre hasn’t ended there either. It provides facilities for the local community and acts as a leading visitor attraction boasting fun days out for all the family.

Achieving goals

Another recent project which caters for the needs of the wider community is Derby Multi-Sport Arena

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We’ve been informed by the department for Culture, Media and Sport, that since the Olympic Games, the Centre has attracted nearly 200,000 visitors, and is in daily use with a number of successful legacy projects involving all ability levels, from complete beginners to elite athletes. Since opening, 46,000 people have rafted at the Centre and over 16,000 participants have tried canoeing or kayaking. With this example, we’ve achieved our

Talking Point

goal. We aim to create environments that are not just needed by those who excel at sport, but which can benefit an entire community. We prefer to get involved in projects with a sense of longevity. When designing a venue for the Olympic Games we focused on three areas: training, community and events. If we don’t, part of me thinks ‘what’s the point?’ I wouldn’t want to design my dream home if I knew I wasn’t going to live there and make the most of it.

Mike Hall is partner and urban designer at FaulknerBrowns. Mike specialises in sport and leisure sector projects, both nationally and internationally. This includes elite, competition and training venues as well as community sport and leisure projects for public and private sector clients.

The Lee Valley White Water Centre was home to London 2012’s canoe slalom events

Another interesting example of this is Sheffield’s Ponds Forge International Sports Centre – a swimming pool complex which recently came under criticism from British Swimming’s head coach, Bill Furniss, who described the pool as being ‘too fast’. We couldn’t be more delighted. If we ever need to provide an endorsement for our facilities standing the test of time, this is it.

Planning for the future We designed Ponds Forge in 1988 with the full co-operation of British Swimming. The pool was one of the first in the world to be built without a shallow end to make it faster – instead it is 3m deep in the middle and over 2m deep at each end. The innovative design prevents ‘vortex reflections’ in the water, which slow swimmers down. Twenty-two years later the pool is providing ideal conditions in which athletes can train to achieve record swim times. This pool was leading the way and setting standards decades ago – and it is still doing so. Another recent project which caters for the needs of the wider community is Derby Multi-Sport Arena, which we designed as a multi-purpose venue as part of Derby City Council’s £50 million Leisure Strategy. The facilities here have been planned to be more accessible to a wide range of potential users – that’s why we’ve designed the track so it can be raised up, providing direct access to the valuable infield space from underneath the track. The futuristic 14,500m2 arena includes a 250m indoor

cycling track and 1.5km outdoor closed cycle circuit as well as a sports infield the size of 12 badminton courts. As well as offering a wide range of sports, the arena has been designed with an audience capacity of 5,000 to allow for the staging of cultural events, exhibitions and conferences. Multipurpose facilities are often of the greatest benefit to the community which is why we planned a strong, accessible framework for a wide range of community uses. The venue doesn’t just cater to the needs of the keen cyclists, but the area’s event goers and businesses. The vision for Derby was to create a fantastic modern facility to be proud of and to form part of a lasting Olympic legacy for the people of Derby, a vision which is now coming to life. Having been involved in sports projects for the past 15 years, I believe the real challenge lies in future-proofing facilities through intelligent practical design solutions. By transforming an area’s leisure facilities we, as architects, can play a key part in aiding its future economic growth which will benefit generations to come.” Mike Hall is speaking about the creation of a ‘Legacy for local residents’ at this year’s International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities (IAKS) Congress in Cologne which is taking place from 22nd to 25th October, 2013.

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The Lee Valley White Water Centre was the world-class venue where Team GB scooped a gold and a silver in Canoe Slalom

www.faulknerbrowns.co.uk www.iaks.org

Public Sector Build Journal 19

Roofing

Pioneering liquid roofing for 50 years This year Sika Liquid Plastics - pioneer of liquid roofing membranes - celebrates its 50th anniversary. In a competitive and still difficult economic climate, it is no small feat for a business to not only succeed but remain at the forefront of the liquid roofing market.

ver the last 50 years Sika Liquid Plastics has worked on many prestigious projects across the globe including the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, which was visited by Prince Charles, the iconic Selfridges Building at the Bullring in Birmingham, and several projects for London 2012 for the Olympic Delivery Authority. Sika Liquid Plastics, part of the worldwide group of Sika companies, manufactures a range of liquid applied roofing membranes at its facilities in Preston, Lancashire. Recognised as the market leader in liquid roofing, the company has long been at the forefront of product innovations and leading the flat roofing industry by providing safer installations without the need for any heat or naked flame. Its key product – Decothane – has been manufactured for over 28 years and has been used on many prestigious projects including the Tate Britain in London, Abu Dhabi Airport in the Middle East, and the Helmsley Building in New York City. In 1963 two entrepreneurial brothers

20 Public Sector Build Journal

set up M G Plastics Ltd. manufacturing a roofing compound that had been born out of their own product experimentations and field tests in and around Lancashire during 1958. Eventually MG Plastics became a shell company and a new firm was founded called Estacote, later becoming Liquid Plastics Limited. During that period the initial manufacturing plant was set up in Preston and early signs of success could already be seen. During 1966 the factory moved to Salmon Street in Preston where a disused foundry existed, and today this still forms the oldest manufacturing part of the current site. Over the next ten years the company prospered and its high build elastomeric coatings attained a worldwide sale. With a strong financial background many new innovations could be developed utilising the same basic technology and augmented by a team of chemists. The company continued to grow, opening offices and manufacturing facilities in Belgium, the US, and more recently the Middle East and Far East. Then in 2009

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The Heron Tower, London

the owners, wanting to further support the business’ growth, sold the firm to Sika – a specialist Swiss company with operations in over 80 countries around the world. Liquid Plastics became Sika Liquid Plastics, a renowned brand name amongst Sika’s roofing product portfolio, and Decothane has since been rolled out on a global scale under the Sika brand name of Sikalastic. Much of Sika Liquid Plastics’ success can be attributed to the unique and comprehensive technical support provided by the team both in the office and out on site. From roof surveys to bespoke product specifications and detail drawings, every element of a roofing project is covered by the expert team. And peace of mind is further found in the market leading, robust guarantees backed up by the financial stability of being part of a huge organisation like Sika. Sika Liquid Plastics also chooses to work with a selection of Quality Assured Contractors who are all fully trained to install Sika Liquid Plastics’ products. On-going training is also carried out, as well as regular site inspections during roof installation. Construction work is currently underway on a multi-million pound Research and Development Centre at the Sika Liquid Plastics’ site in Preston. And as Sika’s European Centre of Excellence for Liquid Roofing there will be plenty of new innovations yet to come from this British brand.

Decothane has been manufactured for over 28 years and has been used on many prestigious projects including the Tate Britain in London

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Public Sector Build Journal 21

Storage Systems

Helping deliver savings for the nation B

ruynzeel’s four year GPS Framework, RM1501, includes high-density steel storage systems such as mobile and static shelving. This includes both electronic and manually operated mobile systems. This Framework can be used by all public sector organisations in the UK including central government, local government, NHS, education, devolved administrations, emergency services, defence and notfor-profit organisations. The benefits of procuring on the GPS Framework include:

• Guaranteed quality Bruynzeel has undergone the demanding GPS quality evaluation exercise, giving complete assurance of quality and fitness for purpose. Bruynzeel Storage Systems is IS0 9001 and ISO 14001 accredited.

• Best value To be chosen for the GPS Framework RM1501, Bruynzeel went through a rigorous, competitive tendering process, ensuring best value products and service at pre-tendered prices.

• Cost savings Because the Framework is fully EU compliant, customers save the time and money normally associated with conducting their own tendering exercise. Tasks such as the selection and evaluation of suppliers, obtaining various bids, checking product quality and confirming legislative compliance has all been carried out by GPS. You are assured of best value by using GPS Framework RM1501. Bruynzeel Storage Systems has extensive experience designing and installing a comprehensive selection of storage systems

• Speedy implementation Save time by avoiding unnecessary trawling of sources and undergoing the competitive tender process, which can take up to 6 months for full EU compliance.

• Legislative compliance Bruynzeel installations are fully compliant with all the relevant legislative and statutory requirements, including health & safety in the workplace.

22 Public Sector Build Journal

• Easy ordering The framework is fully EU compliant, saving customers the time and money associated with conducting their own procurement exercise. Bruynzeel Storage Systems (incorporating Nord-Plan/Qubiqa) has extensive experience of designing and installing highdensity storage systems to meet the full range of requirements of a large and varied public sector client base. Bruynzeel systems are used in front offices, back-offices, high security areas, stores, libraries, hospitals, universities, archives, museums – anywhere and everywhere for unit-load storage and filing. For every GPS project, Bruynzeel will undertake a complete site evaluation and survey, prepare layout drawings and provide floor-loading information. Installing storage systems for thousands of organisations over many years, has given Bruynzeel an unrivalled wealth of knowledge to design the most effective storage solutions. This year sees the opening of new central Libraries and Archives in Birmingham and Liverpool. Bruynzeel is proud to have provided electronically-operated shelving to both prestigious projects. As well as investing in modern manufacturing systems, Bruynzeel’s ongoing R&D keeps the company ahead of the market and in-front of legislative changes. It is this long-term vision that first established Bruynzeel’s leading position, and it is this commitment to widen the gap even further that led to the development of its latest range of energy-efficient, reliable and cost-effective electronic mobile shelving systems. Compactus Dynamic is the most advanced electronic shelving available. Packed with features, it’s safe and easy to use. Just a light touch on the panel gives immediate, effortless access to its contents.

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As a Government Procurement Service (GPS) supplier, Bruynzeel Storage Systems Ltd can save public sector clients time and money. To guarantee best value, companies appointed to the Framework have undergone a rigorous and EU-compliant tendering and evaluation process, meaning customers can be confident of receiving first class service and the very highest quality storage systems.

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Insulation in problems that will affect either the longevity of the building itself or the health of the people using the building – or both. There are particular challenges associated with traditional solid wall buildings, which constitute about 25% of the current UK building stock.

Insulation process

Managing risk Neil May, Managing Director of Natural Building Technologies, Project Lead for the Sustainable Traditional Buildings Alliance and Co-Founder and Director of the Good Homes Alliance talks to PSBJ about managing public sector refurb risks.

he sustainable refurbishment of existing public housing stock, schools and community buildings, can present a real challenge to specifiers and builders. Government targets currently dictate that UK carbon emissions must be reduced to 80% of 1990 levels by 2050. The majority of these carbon emissions are related to building use or construction. In order to meet the government target, this means that effectively all buildings will have to become near to zero carbon by 2050. In terms of the UK’s existing 25 million homes, this equates to more than one house per minute continuously for the next 36 years. According to the Low Carbon Construction report issued by the Government Innovation and Growth Team in 2010, it is said that buildings are responsible for roughly half of the country’s CO2 emissions, and residential buildings account for 27% of the total UK CO2 emissions caused by construction and the people consuming energy in buildings. About 60% of the energy use and carbon emissions from residential buildings is attributable to space heating (and cooling), which can be addressed by fabric measures. The energy use of non-residential buildings, which account for 18% of the total UK CO2 emissions caused by construction and the people consuming energy in buildings, is

24 Public Sector Build Journal

more attributable to services and appliance use. However, fabric measures here are equally essential to the government strategy for near zero emissions. Fabric measures mean improving airtightness, improvement of glazing performance, and, most importantly, improving insulation of the building fabric – this means walls, roofs and floors. However, care must be taken not to build

Residential buildings account for 27% of the total UK CO2 emissions caused by construction and the people consuming energy in buildings

The greatest hazards when insulating properties with solid walls relate to the “breathability” of the building fabric, which refers to the way moisture is dealt with. Approved Documents parts L1B and L2B of the Building Regulations 2010 stipulate that when improving the energy efficiency of traditional buildings, “the work should not prejudice the character of the host building or increase the risk of long term deterioration of the building fabric or fittings”. As outlined in the DECC funded Sustainable Traditional Buildings Alliance (STBA) report from 2012, ‘Responsible Retrofit of Traditional Buildings’, these risks are considerable and are compounded by a lack of understanding, incorrect standards and poor training and skills. Logistically, it is normally more straightforward to insulate the outside of buildings to achieve greater energy efficiency during a refurbishment, but it is not always possible or desirable to change the external facade of existing buildings, particularly heritage and listed buildings. In situations such as this, it becomes necessary to select an insulation system that can be applied to the internal face of solid-wall buildings. A number of moisture risks can be

Two merging Tameside primary schools used NBT woodfibre insulation boards as part of their refurbishment and expansion

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Insulation created when insulation is fixed to the inside of exterior solid walls, including interstitial condensation at the wall/insulation interface, residual moisture in the wall from rising damp and hygroscopic materials, and in particular wetting of the wall by driven rain. In solid walls, it is often impossible to avoid these risks and keep the wall dry, so the critical thing is to allow moisture to get out and to encourage drying processes. This is why actively “breathable” insulation systems are safer and more robust than non-breathable systems. The essential part of any specification is the assessment process, prior to specification. This specification should take into account full breathability criteria, ideally using BS EN 15026:2007 as a starting point. Assessment of both wall and insulation system and their compatibility in the specific building situation is required. Once this has been done a robust specification can be made.

Accurate assessment

for solid wall buildings is not just about correct assessment and specification. Most buildings, particularly traditional structures, contain non-standard details, which will require resolving on site. For this reason it is vital that contractors are aware of the importance of following specification and approaching applications with understanding. Detailing around joists, reveals and penetrations should be given particular attention in terms of airtightness measures, as these are the areas that present the highest risks for condensation and mould. NBT retrofit solutions, including breathable woodfibre systems such as Pavadentro and Pavadry, are vital to the success of solid wall refurbishments, but should not be specified without understanding the building application. By also providing

assessment, proper detailing, an Approved Installer network and onsite support, we ensure robust and safe solutions. NBT offer performance guarantees and warranties for our products and their performance if this process is followed. This approach is the only one that can deliver true sustainability of buildings in the long term, and we hope to see this model adopted across the industry. It is essential that any wall insulation measures installed in a retrofit are thoroughly integrated, not only with other fabric measures such as floor and roof insulation, upgrades to windows and doors and airtightness details, but also with the essential elements of ventilation, heating and usability. A well designed heating system is essential, as energy use, moisture issues, health and comfort are all closely related to the efficiency of heating systems. Finally the issue of usability is central to the success of any refurbishment: Usable controls, usable walling systems (where hanging pictures or fitting services, for example, is easy and doesn’t compromise the moisture performance), and usable ventilation (which isn’t switched off or otherwise disabled by occupants) are all key components of successful refrofits. The whole house approach is central to the STBA advice on retrofit – dealing with “systemic” effects and providing massive benefits for buildings and their users. A systemic approach is not only about fabric and technologies, but about people as well. Linking up the supply chain process and ensuring that the needs and lifestyle of the user of the building are properly understood and integrated is essential to long term sustainability, not only of buildings, but of our economic and social structures, and of the individual lives of building users.

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Unfortunately, not many consultants, let alone material suppliers, understand how to properly assess these systems, or even how to utilise the WUFI commercial software necessary to make these assessments. The guidance given by the STBA, and recently in Technical Paper 15 by Historic Scotland, is a good starting point for procurers wishing to familiarise themselves with key issues around assessment. The supply of insulation solutions

Two Tameside primary schools used NBT woodfibre insulation boards as part of their refurbishment and expansion

Woodfibre insulation was specified to safeguard the health of children accessing this SureStart childrens centre

26 Public Sector Build Journal

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Public Sector Build Journal 27

Healthcare Energy-saving construction methods which create more sealed buildings have brought with them huge challenges; they minimise air exchange, making the use of low-emission materials even more important. Floorcoverings that carry recognised eco-credentials and meet with the criteria for the protection of health are now a necessity; for example the 'Blue Angel’ eco-label for low emissions ensures quality for indoor air hygiene. The planners of a new hospital in the French Alps, CHAL (Centre Hospitalier Alpes Léman) were assisted by Professor Karine Guillot, who concerns herself with the building of environmentally compatible and healthy buildings. “Building materials should be ecologically safe and contribute to the health welfare of building users,” emphasises Guillot.

Guaranteed durability

A healthy choice At Southmead hospital in Bristol, rubber floorcoverings were the only material to pass all of the stringent tests

Consequently, only building materials with low emission levels and devoid of toxic or allergy inducing substances were used to construct the hospital. Floorcoverings made of linoleum or PVC can have hygienic deficits because the coating is only a few micrometers thick and prone to wearing out quickly, not just as the result of mechanical strain, but from normal cleaning as well. Germs quickly colonise worn out patches. For the floors, the planners chose ecologically sound rubber floorcoverings.

When it comes to flooring, there are few environments with more stringent requirements than the healthcare sector. Here, rubber flooring expert Nora highlights how architects, specifiers and contractors can successfully achieve design-led healthy buildings, with a superior aesthetic finish.

ith the health and wellbeing of patients and staff being of primary importance; infection control, low emissions, low maintenance, resilience, comfort under foot and design are among some of the key requirements for the chosen flooring. Nationally recognised for providing excellence in healthcare, New Cross Hospital (The Royal Wolverhampton Hospitals NHS Trust) is one of only seven Trusts in the UK chosen to be a showcase hospital for infection prevention. To support the Trust’s vision to continue to improve the experience of its patients and users, Architect/Designer firm, Keppie Design were employed to create a comfortable and hygienic environment by using easy-to-

28 Public Sector Build Journal

maintain materials that will endure for the long term. With its extremely long life span that looks almost new even after decades of intensive use, rubber flooring is the number one choice for countless planners worldwide and was the chosen option for New Cross. The ultra grip rubber flooring specified provides R11 slip resistance in areas where spillages could occur and is the only safety flooring to be completely PVC free. Ultra grip flooring was also specified for Southmead hospital in Bristol, where rubber floorcoverings were the only material to pass all of the stringent tests placed upon it for the biomed environment in its laboratories.

The ultra grip rubber flooring specified for New Cross hospital provides R11 slip resistance in areas where spillages could occur

Healthcare

With its extremely long life span, rubber flooring was the number one choice for New Cross Hospital

The team work with the children led to the decision to use the world of nature as a theme in a fresh, bright and informal environment. Each floor was assigned its own colour, a name and a symbol from nature. From the white ‘arctic’ over the red ‘mountains’ through to the ochre-coloured ‘savannah’, the seven floors accommodate not only children but, figuratively speaking, natural habitats from all over the world as

well. Rubber floorcoverings are available in a variety colours from muted to vibrant to create elegant room designs and an ambience for feeling good. Rubber flooring allows many designs including logos, patterns and way-finding to be cut-out and laid into the material, while still providing the same integrity as the solid material. Guy Stanton continues: “The desire

The hospital’s technical director, Etienne Mauget, is extremely satisfied with how easy it is to clean the rubber floorcoverings. On account of their material and dense surface, rubber floorcoverings are less susceptible to dirt and are also resistant to surface disinfectants and can be cleaned and polished mechanically – using just water and without any chemicals at all. This is not only much cheaper, but it is also good for the environment. Design may not be considered a high priority for hospitals but it is vitally important. Colours reflect and influence our overall mood, so a feel-good floor design can contribute to the environment and affect the mental health of patients, visitors and hospital staff alike. Nora UK Managing Director, Guy Stanton comments: “The patient experience is vital to good healthcare, therefore a product with a high quality aesthetic, inspiring modern designs and colours will assist with the patients and nurses experience.” Evelina Children’s Hospital in London chose rubber flooring for its durability, low VOCs and also the design freedom that it offered. By children for children – that was the motto of the architect’s office Michael Hopkins Architects. Children were involved right from the concept phase of the new hospital: the result is a children’s hospital radiating light, warmth and colour in the very heart of London.

Ultra grip flooring was specified for Southmead hospital in Bristol

Public Sector Build Journal 29

Healthcare

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too short a period of time.” By choosing flooring which is exceptionally durable, has a long life warranty, and only requires solution free cleaning, the hospital is assured a superior quality, healthy and also economical long-term solution.

www.nora.com/uk

Quietly kind • Rubber floors are exceptionally quiet, offering a calmer healing and working environment. High noise level can be a source of unpleasant stress, acoustic resilient flooring reduces both sound emission in both the room concerned and the room below. • Acoustic rubber coverings absorb more force of an impact (almost 50 percent) than other resilient floor coverings. This means that the force of a fall on the hip can be reduced by practically half.

CHAL was assisted by Professor Karine Guillot, who concerns herself with the building of environmentally compatible and healthy buildings

for more pleasing design in hospitals is leading towards a more domesticated choice of finishing materials, but flooring must still offer the infection control properties; they must be bacteriostatic, fungistatic and offer resistance to surface disinfectants.”

fabric is maintenance. Guy adds: “The requirement for a durable floorcovering is vital. People are becoming wiser to the fact that they are having to replace flooring in

• Due to their high degree of resilience, rubber coverings are also extremely kind to the joints, which is beneficial not only to the residents, but to the nursing staff as well. The rubber covering is immediately perceived as being soft, pleasant and beneficial to walk on.

Maintenance regime Comfort and safety are also paramount for patients, staff and visitors. Rubber flooring performs well versus other materials in a number of ways. It can be provided with Electrostatic Dissipation (ED) for ICU rooms and Operating Theatres where there is a high volume of technical equipment. The 2mm thickness ensures comfort underfoot for personnel standing for long periods of time and it is exceptionally quiet. With the high footfall experienced in hospitals and movement of heavy equipment and trolleys, resilience is arguably at the top of the criteria list for flooring. Rubber flooring is extremely tough, requires no coating, is healthy to walk and stand on, can be installed without joints and is environmentally sound. Crucially it also has a very long life span so lessens the requirement for renewal, which causes operational disruptions. The final consideration of any hospital

30 Public Sector Build Journal

At Evelina Children's Hospital, each floor was assigned its own colour, a name and a symbol from nature

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Housing

The Kirkby programme represents the biggest private housing project to be completed under the scheme

Homes display N united front With funding still being available from energy companies towards the end of the CESP scheme, Wetherby identified an area of over 2000 privately owned homes, which would benefit from energy saving measures and with Knowsley Council's support, initiated a £15.5m regeneration scheme for the area. Barrie Stanley, Project Manager at Wetherby Building Systems takes a closer look at the programme of refurbishment.

The full backing and support of the council helped convey the many benefits of the project to residents

32 Public Sector Build Journal

ew statistics released at the end of June forced the industry to address the level of solid wall insulation projects being installed. The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) ‘Meeting Carbon Budgets’ annual progress report revealed the UK is nowhere near on track to meet its targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions through the 2020s. The report highlighted that the very low levels of solid wall insulation currently being installed need to be significantly increased to meet the Carbon Budgets. Despite an increase in installations of external wall insulation (EWI) at the end of 2012, once 100% funding became available under the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) and Community Energy Saving Programme (CESP) schemes, this has taken a backwards step since Green Deal and ECO launched. With around 82,000 solid wall properties insulated during 2012, installation levels have fallen by approximately 94% in the first quarter of 2013, which is an issue that needs addressing urgently if insulation levels suggested by the CCC are to be achieved. The benefits of CESP and CERT are clear to see in successful projects that were completed under the schemes and lessons need to be learned to ensure ECO and Green Deal can build on this success and deliver high volumes of exciting housing regeneration programmes. A shining example of a successful scheme under CESP is the regeneration of Kirkby in Merseyside. When extra funding became available under the CESP scheme,

Housing leading UK EWI system manufacturer, targeted this area as one that could greatly benefit from thermally upgrading its housing stock and so, with support from Knowsley Council, initiated a £15.5m regeneration project for the area. The partnership between Wetherby and Knowsley Council was instrumental in the delivering this scheme. With all homes in the area being privately owned, the full backing and support of the council helped convey the many benefits of the project to residents and ensured their buy-in from the outset.

Unique scheme The partnership between Wetherby and Knowsley Council was instrumental in the delivering this scheme

more than 2000 privately-owned homes in Kirkby were set to benefit from energy saving measures. Towards the end of the CESP programme extra funding became available for the lowest 10% of deprived Lower Super Output Areas (LSOAs). An LSOA consists of approximately 600 homes and Kirkby (within Knowlsey Metropolitan Borough Council) had 10 LSOAs that qualified under these conditions. As a result, Wetherby Building Systems, a

Wetherby negotiated funding from one of the major energy companies for each property to receive up to £12,000 of energy efficient installation works, which were provided completely free of charge to the homeowner under the CESP scheme. The funding enabled an initial 1723 properties to have external wall insulation (EWI) installed as the primary measure, along with new boilers for 700 homes and loft insulation for 650 residents. Unlike other projects under CESP, which were mainly refurbishment projects on social housing stock, the Kirkby programme represents the biggest private housing project to be completed under the scheme. As an area rebuilt after the war, Kirkby has many non-traditional properties,

creating problems for both Wetherby as the system designers and Hamilton Building Contractors, as the installers. Before any works commenced, all properties were surveyed over a three month period with each home individually assessed and any issues rectified before EWI could be installed. As the most versatile solution, Wetherby’s Epsicon 3 System was specified as the most effective system for the house types. The 60mm of external insulation was rendered with a dry dash finish in four different decorative aggregates, resulting in a fresh and durable finish to the properties. Following the application of EWI, the properties are now recognised as ‘thermally efficient’, with a dramatic reduction in U-value; with a previous value of 2.1W/ m2K, each home in the area now has a U-value of 0.3W/m2K, in accordance with current building regulations. The energy efficiency improvements have also seen a significant reduction in fuel bills, with the average home owner in Kirkby saving an estimated £375 on their fuel bill annually following the installation of EWI. Further reductions of up to £100 have been possible for properties that also had a new boiler fitted and loft insulation installed. Supporting the government’s targets to cut carbon emissions, the regeneration has also resulted in a saving of 267,500 carbon tonnes within Kirkby town over the next 30 years. In addition to increasing the energy efficiency of the properties, the EWI has also improved the aesthetic appearance of the properties, creating an attractive living environment for the entire community.

Financial savings

The energy efficiency improvements have seen a significant reduction in fuel bills, with the average home owner in Kirkby saving an estimated £375 on their fuel bill annually

Commenting on the project, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economy and Skills, Cllr Dave Lonergan, said: “CESP has been an excellent initiative, bringing real benefits to residents and the environment. In Knowsley, we are keen to explore different methods of reducing the borough’s carbon emissions and the CESP scheme, initiated by Wetherby Building Systems, was a really effective way of doing that. “The scheme has also been very good news for residents because they are seeing significant savings on their energy bills at a time when household finances are being stretched.” Wetherby recognises that maintaining an energy efficient home doesn’t stop once the installation has been completed; it

Public Sector Build Journal 33

Housing

is important that home owners continue to implement energy-saving initiatives. As a result, after phase 1 of the scheme was complete, Wetherby and Knowsley Council staged resident engagement open days for the community residents educating homeowners on how they could help their homes to save energy. Residents also received a handover booklet, which contained not only advice on how to maintain their new EWI system, but also advice to ensure residents are empowered to make the right decisions on how and when to heat their thermally upgraded homes. Following the success of the initial properties completed under the scheme, the project was extended in Spring 2013 under the CESP mitigating scheme, which saw more funding become available and a further 300 properties undergo the home improvements. Wanting to ensure the entire area could benefit from the energy saving measures, Wetherby has now secured further funding for another 350 homes in Kirkby to be completed under the ECO scheme.

enhanced home ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; well-being. The local Primary Care Trust saw a reduction in bronchial and respiratory conditions within the local community during the winter months. It is clear that CESP has not only had a positive effect on social housing, but also privately owned homes. It is important that

the government and those involved with housing regeneration projects learn from both the positives and negatives of CESP to ensure ECO builds on its success and succeeds in helping to meet government targets to reduce UK carbon emissions.

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In addition to increasing the energy efficiency of the properties, the EWI has also improved the aesthetic appearance of the properties

www.wbs-ltd.co.uk

Sense of pride In addition to the energy saving and aesthetic benefits of the scheme, the regeneration works have also had a positive effect on residents. As well as assisting in engaging a higher community spirit within Kirkby, with residents possessing a new sense of pride in the area, it has also

34 Public Sector Build Journal

The 60mm of external insulation was rendered with a dry dash finish in four different decorative aggregates

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Street Furniture

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 Public Sector Build Journal 35

Heating & Plumbing

A heated debate Gone are the days when all panel radiators were the same and as technology has become more sophisticated, so has radiator specification. Nick Whitwell, Managing Director of Quinn Radiators, gives an overview of the current issues affecting radiator specification in the public sector.

Quinn's Hi-Lo Centre Tap radiator has been specifically designed to help housing associations and local authorities to meet Lifetime Homes standards

of a campaign to educate specifiers and installers that radiators are perfect for use with low temperature systems but that getting the right model is critical for the best system performance. Traditional boilers will produce water flowing into the radiator at a temperature of between 70°C and 75°C, however modern systems should no longer be designed to this specification. Renewable sources provide water at a much lower temperature, typically between 45°C and 50°C.

Alternative solution

Correct radiator specification is the key to ensure system efficiency

36 Public Sector Build Journal

Therefore heating systems driven by a renewable source will usually only operate at a Delta T of 20-25K, whereas a traditional boiler system would run at around Delta T 50K. Effectively this means that the water in the radiators doesn’t get as hot with a low temperature system so the heat output is less and you will need a larger surface area from your emitter to get the room to a comfortable temperature. It is a myth that the only solution is to use significantly larger radiators or use a different type of heat emitter with a larger

surface area, like underfloor heating. To be effective, the radiator needs to make optimum use of the water’s energy content. Therefore the answer is actually to use a radiator with high heat output, larger surface area and low water content which means that, while there may still be a small degree of increased size, you don’t need scale up to such a large radiator or install other expensive heat emitters. An alternative idea with renewable systems is to get more radiator surface area in less wall space by using a triple panel or vertical radiator. By doubling up or tripling up on the number of panels, it is possible to achieve higher heat levels from shorter radiators. There has also been an ongoing debate about whether underfloor heating could eventually replace radiators as the main heat emitter in modern buildings but there are a number of issues for public sector specifiers to consider. Underfloor heating can be an efficient way of heating a well insulated room but takes longer to heat up than a radiator. It also takes longer to cool down, which can cause overheating and the heat

s well as an enormous choice of sizes, styles and colours, now models vary significantly in terms of heat output, water use and energy efficiency. In the past, the focus on energy efficiency has tended to concentrate on boilers but now it is becoming widely recognised that radiators also have an important role to play in reducing heating bills. The increasing use of low temperature systems, such as condensing boilers and renewable sources like solar thermal and heat pumps, has led to widespread industry debate about their compatibility with radiators, due to lower flow temperatures. However, we have been at the forefront

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Heating & Plumbing varies according to the floorcovering. Fitting an underfloor heating system is also much more expensive than installing radiators, particularly as most underfloor systems won’t provide a total heating replacement either. Evidence also shows that buildings heated using radiators in low temperature systems consume less total energy than underfloor heated buildings, even when using renewable energy such as heat pumps. One thing to note is that there are still many households that have older inefficient radiators in use. Many of these radiators do not have convectors and occupy a large wall space. In order to optimise the efficiency of low temperature systems, radiators surface area is key. It is for this reason that older style radiators, especially those without convectors naturally emit significantly less heat when compared to a modern radiator with convectors. Gains in excess of 330% in additional output can be achieved when comparing an old vs. modern radiator, occupying the same wall space.

Tenant consideration

bills. Being the most efficient panel radiators on the market, they generate up to 25% more heat and 31% less water than similar products available today. The age and mobility needs of a building’s tenants are also becoming an increasingly important factor in radiator specification in the public sector. New social housing developments are already working to the Lifetime Homes standard,

which includes sixteen design criteria aimed at supporting the changing needs of individuals and families at different stages of life. Radiator temperature control valves (TRVs), must be located so they are usable by a wide range of household members, including those with restricted movement and limited reach. Our Hi-Lo Centre Tap radiator has been specifically designed to help housing associations and local authorities to meet Lifetime Homes standards. It has centre connections for easy installation, making it possible to have the TRV controls at the top or the bottom of the radiator, so that they can simply be moved if required. This makes it easy for tenants of any age and agility to control their radiators and heating system to maintain a comfortable and steady home environment. Despite all of the myths circulating about the future of radiators as a heat emitter, there is no doubt that they offer the flexibility, reaction time, energy efficiency and comfort required by both modern and older properties now and in the future. However, correct radiator specification is the key to ensure system efficiency and specifiers shouldn’t assume that all modern convector radiators will have the same energy efficiency benefits. The age and mobility of householders is an increasingly important issue when looking at the siting of TRV controls and future compatibility with renewable systems is also a key factor.

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In fact, a recent research project by Nottingham City Homes (NCH) found that installing our Hi-Lo round top radiators could save them over £1m a year in heating

Quinn advises to use a radiator with high heat output, larger surface area and low water content

By doubling up or tripling up on the number of panels, it is possible to achieve higher heat levels from shorter radiators

www.quinn-radiators.co.uk

Public Sector Build Journal 39

Leisure

Colour is increasingly an integral aspect of any public sector design, with bright, bold colours leading the way

Change at ease Trevor Bowers, Managing Director of leading washroom manufacturer, Washroom Washroom, discusses how colour and layout can be utilised within areas such as changing rooms of public leisure facilities to create a unique and inviting space attractive to end users.

one is the old institutional green which seemed to dominate everything from schools and leisure centres to hospitals and even prisons. Colour is increasingly an integral aspect of any public sector design, with bright, bold colours leading the way, especially in the leisure sector. Bright primary colours can be used to great effect within public sector leisure centres, helping to create an environment in which end users, particularly families with young children, will feel at ease and comfortable. Effective use of colour on cubicles, vanities and other fixtures, which can be manufactured in a dazzling array of colours to complement the theme of the whole building, helps to create a stylish, high specification feel, adding to the overall user experience. Colour has been shown to have an effect on mood and as different tones are known to evoke certain moods and feelings, careful consideration is given to choice of colour for different environments such as schools, hospitals and leisure centres. Designers can make use of different colours and tones to subtly influence moods of end users. In a leisure centre environment, colour would be used to encourage visitors to get active.

40 Public Sector Build Journal

An emerging and innovative way to inject a splash of colour and personality into a washroom or changing room design to create a stylish finish, is through the use of screen printing on cubicles and vanities. Screen printing allows for a unique, fun style to be developed which can even be tailored

to fit with existing themed areas and the theme of the whole building, helping to form a sense of luxury as well as putting users at ease. Advances in technology now also mean that designs can be digitally printed so virtually any design can be used to create a wholly unique area. Such screen-printed products also offer a cost-effective way to update existing designs over time without having to specify a whole new changing area, and can be used in conjunction with a variety of images to provide a bespoke solution with coordinated designs printed on cubicle fronts and division panels. While it is important to make use of bright colours and fun designs in order to create

Opting for lockers manufactured from extremely durable Solid Grade Laminate (SGL) is ideal to ensure facilities can withstand the high levels of traffic

Leisure

Designers can make use of different colours and tones to subtly influence moods of end users

an appealing and unique space in which visitors, particularly young children, will feel comfortable, it is also essential to consider the varying practical needs of all potential end users.

Family-friendly approach

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In order to cater for the needs of all users, public sector leisure washrooms and changing room facilities should include accessible lockers, toilets, showers and sinks for disabled users and ensure there is adequate space between lockers and cubicles. As well as installing low level sinks and showers for children, facilities also benefit from varying sized lockers for families to use.

The use of family friendly ‘changing villages’ is something that is certainly beginning to gain a lot of momentum in the leisure sector. These ‘villages’ offer a hassle free unique area, which offer greater flexibility for families, can be designed to suit the available space so are ideal not just for new builds but also leisure centres undergoing refurbishment. Many leisure centres also include separate changing room facilities for the use of school parties. These specially designed areas, which complement the ‘changing village’ design, allow teachers to effectively monitor and supervise children in privacy, thus providing a safe environment for children. It is essential to consider practical

implications of materials used as part of the overall design of changing rooms and washrooms in public sector facilities. If these areas are poorly maintained, no matter how bright and colourful they are, it can ultimately dissuade users from visiting. Opting for cubicles, lockers and benching manufactured from extremely durable Solid Grade Laminate (SGL) is ideal to ensure facilities can withstand the high levels of traffic. SGL provides a hygienic surface which is easy to clean, highly resistant to vandalism and is totally impervious to water, making it ideal for changing rooms and showers areas. The solid construction of SGL means that with no substrate, it removes the need for independent edging which could come off, looking unsightly over time. Ultra durable, Solid Surface Corian, which is also easy to clean, is ideal for use on vanity units where it can be cut to any shape and joined with inconspicuous seams to produce a perfectly neat and unified appearance. As Corian can be manufactured in a wide range of colours and patterns, the design possibilities are almost limitless, ensuring the finished design is both aesthetically pleasing and practical. The use of a specially designed integrated duct panelling system also helps to reduce the costs of future maintenance, whether planned or reactive. The duct panels, which have the added benefit of creating an attractive smooth finish, make cleaning easier and allow for easy access should the need for maintenance and repairs occur. Fitted in sections, the system allows workers to easily access just the area where maintenance is required, thus limiting disruption for end users. Again, this practical washroom solution, which helps to reduce future maintenance costs, does not need to come at the expense of design. The specially designed duct panels can be manufactured in almost any finish to complement the overall design. In terms of providing washroom and changing room facilities in public leisure centres there needs to be a delicate balance between creating an aesthetically pleasing design attractive to end users and ensuring facilities will stand the test of time. Washroom, with its unique bespoke design service, is able to deliver designs which are both stylish and practical with the needs of end users and maintenance issues firmly in mind at all stages of the design.

An emerging and innovative way to inject a splash of colour into a changing room is through the use of screen printing

www.washroom.co.uk

Public Sector Build Journal 41

Building Access

A fair future Understandably, access for all in public buildings has become a right, not an exception. Alastair Stannah, Managing Director of Stannah Lifts Limited, examines the imperative to provide 'access for all' in public institutions throughout the UK.

to the building as well as all its floors and facilities. This ‘access for all’ imperative is of particular significance in education where, since the introduction of the Schools Access Initiative (SAI) in 1996, Government funding has enabled mainstream schools and colleges to make their premises accessible to disabled pupils, students, staff and visitors. Access solutions are best sourced through a lift manufacturer offering comprehensive product ranges and services backed by a reassuring pedigree. All types of hydraulic and traction drive lifts should be available – from standard to bespoke passenger lifts, some with a structure-supported option, to interior and exterior platform lifts. Indoor versions should feature full or half-height cars to accommodate ceiling height restrictions. Inclined platform lifts to move wheelchair users over straight or curved stairs should also be available. In the industry since 1867, Stannah is a UK market leader offering this capability, with a proven track record in providing access solutions for new and established educational buildings.

Retrofitting solutions

Government funding has enabled mainstream schools and colleges to make their premises accessible to all

42 Public Sector Build Journal

It is essential to build in equal access when designing a new school or adapting an established one, especially if it is a registered listed building and subject to the stewardship of English Heritage, the Government’s statutory adviser on the historic environment. At Stannah, we can deliver this dual capability. For example, we installed passenger and platform lifts in two educational establishments: two hydraulic-drive, gated

Midilift SL vertical platform lifts in City College Southampton – one of the top 10% of GFE colleges in the country for success rates; and two traction-drive, 13-person Xtralift passenger lifts in Hammersmith Academy – a brand-new, state-of-the-art secondary school in West London. These lifts have brought educational access for mobility compromised staff and students of all ages. All lifts must be standards compliant to ensure the safety of passengers and lift engineers, too. This means meeting European Directives and Standards such as: Either the Lift Directive 95/16/EC for passenger lifts or the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC for platform lifts, allowing the product to be CE marked; Various EN 81 standards; BS8300; Part ‘M’ of the Building Regulations (England & Wales) or Section 4.2 of The Technical Handbook (Scotland); and The Equality Act 2010. Finally, regular servicing by an experienced and qualified engineer will maximise any lift’s lifetime, particularly in busy environments such as schools and colleges where performance and appearance are robustly tested on a daily basis. Every lift should come with a 1-year service warranty. We provide our customers with a local service via a nationwide network delivering 24 hour, 365 days a year support. This covers service, repair, modernisation and refurbishment of all types of lifts, stairlifts, escalators and moving walkways – not only those from the Stannah, but also other lift manufacturers’ equipment.

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ince the introduction of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) and its replacement, the Equality Act 2010, unfair treatment has been banned and equal opportunities in the workplace and in wider society promoted. Consequently, public buildings and services throughout the UK have had to make their premises accessible to people of all mobility levels – this includes access

At City College Southampton, Stannah installed two hydraulicdrive, gated Midilift SL vertical platform lifts

www.stannahlifts.co.uk

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

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

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T: 0845 2700 696 E: info@thedecktileco.co.uk

Online Enquiry 022 Public Sector Build Journal 43

Doors & Windows

Improved access with Gilgen A versatile new swing door operator from Gilgen Door Systems is helping companies improve accessibility and user comfort whilst meeting obligations under the disability act and part M of building regulations.

he Gilgen FD 20 is the company’s most powerful and sophisticated swing door operator to date and suitable for both internal doors and externally facing doors found throughout public buildings such as hospitals, care homes, schools, colleges, transport hubs and other intensive environments. Lightweight doors, heavy doors up to 250kg in weight, fire doors and even external doors facing wind loads up to 50MPH can be automated with ease.

Added strength “We have improved the functionality, power and strength of our swing door operator to ensure fit for purpose operation, low running costs and effortless performance,” says Managing Director, David Cerquella. “The Gilgen FD 20 is quieter, safer, more controllable and some 50% more powerful than its predecessor, making it probably the most versatile swing door operator on the market.”

Gilgen Door Systems is acutely aware that appearance is also an important consideration in a number of applications. The FD 20 features a sleek operator cover, finished in steel or aluminium and a sliding rod mechanism can be specified which offers improved aesthetics over conventional push rod systems. The operator is also fitted with illuminated program selector buttons integrated into the side cover for easy, intuitive operation. The technologically-advanced FD 20 features a powerful new electro-mechanical drive which is extremely quiet and smooth in operation. This is particularly important in hospitals and care homes where patients don’t want to be disturbed. The unit can be fitted with optional motion sensor or hands-free detection sensor for contactless operation. A Gilgen F9000 remote control unit is also available for speed and ease of use when switching frequently between programs. Adjustable functions include push & go operation, safety monitoring and

The FD 20 features a powerful new electro-mechanical drive which is extremely quiet and smooth in operation

wind-load regulation for external doors. Every automatic door operator installed by Gilgen Door Systems will meet the new BS EN16005 regulations which govern safety-in-use standards for automatic doors. The Gilgen FD 20 is fitted with a number of safety features as standard, whilst optional safety sensors with ‘stop’ and ‘reverse’ functions offer additional protection from ‘pinch points’. The unit can also be configured for operation on emergency escape routes and on fire doors.

Effortless access

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The unit offers installers fast and easy start-up capability. Once the unit has been mounted, the user-friendly joystick and integrated LCD display inside the housing can be used to programme the operating parameters such as the opening and closing speed, safety monitoring and reinforced closure. The engineer can also adjust the power of the return spring to the corresponding weight and size of door. The Gilgen FD 20 is a swing door operator for virtually any application providing effortless trouble-free access, safety and security.

enq 023 info@gilgendoorsystems.co.uk ( 0800 316 6994 

External doors up to 1600mm in width (EN7) can be automated with ease

44 Public Sector Build Journal

Doors & Windows

ASSA ABLOY receives CE mark of approval ASSA ABLOY Security Doors has been the first to affix the CE mark issued by Exova Warrington on its high performance steel and timber external doorsets. Having met the relevant characteristics of the product standard EN 14351-1 under the new CE marking system – verified in the newly produced Declaration of Performance documentation – customers of ASSA ABLOY Security Doors can be confident that the high performance external doorsets meet with current market directives. Brian Sofley, Managing Director for ASSA ABLOY Security Doors, comments: “We’re very proud to have been ‘first past the post’, and hope that this demonstrates our commitment to keeping up with the latest industry legislation.”

Comar helps enhance shoppers experience Comar Architectural Aluminium Systems; with its approved fabricator Ridgway Architectural Glazing, has recently completed a new Tesco Superstore in London E4. The design vision was to create a continuous glass facade to the new superstore. With this in mind, and to ensure the design brief could be achieved, Comar 6EFT was selected as it offers architects a flexible system, providing a structurally glazed solution, with options for facets, concealed vents and an extensive range of profiles that cater for large structurally glazed panes. (

www.assaabloy.co.uk

(

02892 662200

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Technal publishes test results for FXi65 window Architectural aluminium glazing systems specialist, Technal, has published new test results for its FXi65 parallel opening window – an option in the FXi casement suite for applications where there is a need to ensure the maximum exchange of fresh air with the minimum draught. In independent tests to BS 63751, the system achieved class 4 for air permeability, E900 for water tightness, and CE2400 for wind resistance. As with all Technal facade products, this system has been ITT tested for compliance with CE Marking in advance of the new requirements that came into force from July 2013.

 enq 024 020 8685 9685 * projects@parksidegrp.co.uk

info@technal.co.uk

(

01924 232323

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Two new senior appointments to BBA The BBA has announced two new senior appointments to its management team. Peter Maddern has been promoted to Head of Contractor and System Certification with responsibilities for the BBA’s installer and management system businesses while Fanoula Ziouzia has been promoted to Head of Business Development and Administration. Peter has been with the BBA since 2002 when he initially joined as an inspector for replacement windows. Fanoula Ziouzia has been with the BBA for six years and has worked as a project manager and latterly as a product team leader. *

construction@bba.star.co.uk

(

01923 665300

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Profile secures Total Glass new contract PVC-U and aluminium window and door fabricator Total Glass supplied and installed quality PVC-U windows manufactured from high-quality Grey on White profile for a new mixed affordable and private housing development in Liverpool. Supplying the RAL 7016 profile from stock with no additional lead time helped Total Glass to secure the 26-home contract with its main contractor client Lovell. Glazed rear doors were also fitted in the 10 houses, four bungalows and 12 flats at Storrington Avenue, Norris Green. Riverside Housing Association manages the social housing element. *

sales@totalglass.com

(

0151 549 2339

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Hospital fire doors on the critical list Shocking video footage by fire door campaigner Theodore Firedoor has been distributed online and via social media, drawing attention to the appalling state of the fire doors in a major city hospital. The video can be viewed here: http:// youtu.be/AhngAXcOGkU. After attempts to encourage essential maintenance by the hospital’s estates management team, Theodore Firedoor went undercover to film very badly damaged fire doors and bodged attempts at repairs which would seriously compromise the fire performance of the doors. (

 enq 029 0844 801 1518 * info@fdis.co.uk

Public Sector Build Journal 45

Floors, Walls & Ceilings

The ranges specified offer durability and a contemporary aesthetic finish

Forbo's flooring scores highly Products from Forbo's Marmoleum and Sarlon acoustic vinyl ranges have been installed as part of a major development project at Alsop High School in Liverpool, delivering a contemporary finish in keeping with the specialist technology college's modern ethos.

The flooring needed to be hard wearing, resilient and cost effective

46 Public Sector Build Journal

and canteen, Forbo’s Sarlon vinyl was specified in order to achieve the required balance of enhanced slip resistance and acoustic performance. Sarlon Canyon delivers 15dB impact sound reduction, excellent indentation resistance and a slip resistance rating of R10. This range, with its subtle tonal design, is particularly popular within the education sector. Forbo’s Safestep R12 was installed in the kitchen where there was a need to protect staff from slip hazards associated with food and drink spillages. Safer Osmani, Business Manager at Alsop High School, said: “A fantastic new learning environment has been provided for our students. The focus throughout the project was on creating a high quality facility with a forward-looking interior and the smart flooring products from Forbo have certainly helped us achieve this.”

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he project entailed the construction of a new state-of-the-art facility housing classrooms, a sixth form centre and canteen, and extensive refurbishment of buildings dating back to 1926. With more than 1700 students Alsop High School is the city’s largest secondary school. As architect Martin Shutt of 20/20 Liverpool explained: “With such a high level of foot traffic, the flooring needed to be hard wearing, resilient and cost effective. We used sheet Marmoleum as the main flooring component throughout the upper levels. We’ve used it on many previous projects and knew it would meet these requirements, and it also helped us achieve a smart, modern interior that compliments the building’s contemporary design. “We had strict sustainability targets to meet within the project too,” he added, “and Marmoleum was ideal in this respect, as it is made from natural materials and has a high recycled content.” Throughout the ground floor corridors

enq 030 info.flooring.uk@forbo.com ( 0844 822 3928 

Floors, Walls & Ceilings The Radisson Blu Edwardian Guildford hotel, a new landmark on Surrey’s most celebrated street, benefited from an Ultra Floor makeover during its construction. Ultra Floor’s Level IT one HDB, Level IT two and Prime IT AR were used to prepare the substrates throughout the hotel prior to fitting a selection of vinyls and carpets. Level IT one HDB is designed to smooth undulations and to build depths of up to 50mm. It was applied to the substrate prior to the application of Level IT two to provide a level surface. Level IT two, once cured, provides excellent surface strength and withstands minimal foot traffic whilst waiting to receive the floorcovering. Ultra Floor’s Level IT SmoothFlow was used to complete sub-floor preparation and Amtico floorcovering installation in the kitchen and restaurant areas in the Travelodge at Gatwick Airport. Level IT SmoothFlow gives a flawless finish and is particularly suited to installations of vinyl, rubber and linoleum where imperfections in flooring underlayments can result in poor aesthetics.

Ultra Floor transforms hotels across the UK Ultra Floor's contract flooring solutions for sub-floor preparation have been used to transform a number of hotels across the UK and continue to be the materials of choice for today's busy contractor looking to achieve a high performance installation. Ultra Floor’s polymer emulsion primer, Prime IT N, for non absorbent substrates and rapid curing smoothing compound, Level IT Super30 were used to transform the kitchen and corridors in St Martins Lane,

one of London’s most elegant 5 star hotels, located at the hub of Covent Garden. Level IT Super30 sets to walk on in as little as 30 minutes, enabling impervious floorcoverings to be laid after just 3 hours.

 *

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ultrafloor@instarmac.co.uk ( 01827 871871

Flooring a hit at flagship leisure complex

An education in flooring Tarkett has used its century of experience manufacturing linoleum floors to produce a new range of colourful flooring ideal for use in the education sector. The Linoleum xf 2 range introduces 47 new colours to Tarkett’s education flooring portfolio that already includes LVT, sports flooring, safety, homogeneous and heterogeneous vinyl sheet and tile products. With colour ranges varying from natural stone greys through to grass greens, raspberry reds and bright, bold yellows and blues – ideal for creating floors with impact. What’s more,Tarkett has applied its xf 2 surface treatment to the flooring making it easier to clean for the end user. (

 enq 032 01622 854040 * uksales@tarkett.com

Kährs and Reflex Sports flooring has been specified at Bangor Aurora – an awardwinning flagship aquatic and leisure complex, situated in County Down, Northern Ireland. Throughout the complex, over 1825m² of Kährs Maple Activity floor, Multisport Beech and Reflex PRO-SQUASH was installed by CB Contracts for main contractor, Farrans Construction. The project was specified by Reflex Sports, through AFLS+P. Individual floor installations included the main 8 court sports hall, where Kährs Multisport Beech was specified across 1450m². A further area of Kährs integral Maple Activity flooring was laid throughout the centre’s studio, whilst Reflex PROSQUASH was installed throughout the squash courts. *

sales@kahrs.co.uk

(

023 9245 3045

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enq 033

T&R introduces Tarkett's Safetred to vinyl range T&R Floor Covering Distributors has introduced Tarkett’s Safetred Universal and Safetred Spectrum to its vinyl range. Safetred features an easy-care Safety Clean PUR reinforcement, which incorporates extra slip resistant granules. It is available from extensive T&R stock, for standard two-day delivery or next day, by request. Each Safetred range provides a variety of tough, durable heterogeneous surfaces, with a R10 slip rating and 2.0mm gauge. Both sheet and tile formats are available and all designs provide easy installation and maintenance. Safetred Universal is offered in 16 fresh-toned shades, whilst Safetred Spectrum includes 20 colour options, complemented by coloured chips and silicon carbide particles. *

info@trflooring.com

(

0115 925 7711

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Public Sector Build Journal 47

Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Changing places on site Kelvin Grimes, Senior Project Manager with Clos-o-Mat, a leading UK supplier of disabled toileting solutions in and out of home, addresses the common site issues affecting a smooth installation of a Changing Places accessible assisted washroom/toilet.

uch of the pressure of completing a construction project – be it new build or a refurbishment/upgrade – can be alleviated simply by logical preplanning. A little thought at the outset on site can have a major impact on the speed with which a job can be completed. Changing Places accessible toilets are a prime example: ‘bigger and better’ than standard wheelchair accessible, Document M type toilets, they incorporate more, and complex, equipment to provide an appropriate environment for people who need the help of a carer to undertake personal hygiene. Under the latest regulations, it is now ‘desirable’ that they are included in any public building. In excess of 500 are already open across the country, so Changing Places toilets are becoming a common element of any build project to which the public will have access. Because they include hitherto rarelyinstalled equipment – such as height adjustable changing benches, hoists, height adjustable washbasins – Changing Places installations are either perceived to be difficult to install, or potential – and often basic – issues not even contemplated!

48 Public Sector Build Journal

As a result, an installation is often delayed simply because considerations have not been addressed – we have been to site to fit, only to find there is no water supply, no electricity, or only a minimum specification stud wall on which to hang equipment that is supposed to bear the weight of an adult. To simplify, a Changing Places toilet is a

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Changing Places toilets are becoming a common element of any build project to which the public will have access

toilet, just bigger – a minimum of 12m2 – and with more equipment. Water supply if therefore a vital requirement to operate the flushing of the WC! Suitable drainage is also required. This in itself needs consideration, especially if a shower is included in the specification, as ideally the shower should be level access. Electricity is also a necessity, to power the hoist, height adjustable equipment, a shower and hand drier. The electricity and other services need to be recessed into the wall, not surface-mounted/run. Also, if the height adjustable changing bed is positioned near the shower, the electricity supply needs to incorporate a RCD and be appropriately insulated. Walls need to be load bearing, as they have to carry not only the equipment, but the weight of an adult using the equipment. A stud wall is just not strong enough, so ideally use brick and block. Ceilings need to be high enough – at least 2.4m – to allow the ceiling track hoist to function properly, and suspend the user safely above the floor. Once installed, the equipment should be commissioned, and then serviced annually, with a LOLER inspection scheduled twice a year. Service and maintenance contracts provide an efficient solution, giving peace of mind and the assurance that the toilet facility is properly operational regardless of frequency of use.

enq 035 info@clos-o-mat.com ( 0161 969 1199 

These toilets incorporate more, and complex, equipment to provide an appropriate environment for people who need the help of a carer to undertake personal hygiene

Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Walking customers through the perfect leisure option Amwell Systems has become an experienced and trusted washroom supplier in the leisure industry over its 30 year trading history and is excited to launch its newly-designed walk-through Aqualine cubicle System.

Having recently designed and supplied walk-through cubicles at Center Parcs, Elveden Amwell understands how important it is for leisure centre owners to have a walk-through option allowing them to separate wet and dry areas of the changing room. The design is simple and effective. A central locking mechanism in the form of a solid grade laminate shelf releases both doors on departure and locks both doors once inside clearly indicating from either side when a cubicle is vacant. As well as Centre Parcs, Amwell has also recently completed a number of other prestigious leisure centre projects where Aqualine has been the lead product. These include Chase Leisure Centre in Stoke on Trent, Worthing New Pools, Hengrove Park Leisure Centre in Bristol and the North Devon Leisure Centre. To find out more about its Aqualine cubicle system or for further information on any of their washroom products visit www.amwell-systems.com  *

enq 036

sales@amwell-systems.com ( 0 1763 276200

Saniflo launches Sanislim for the UK market

New adjustable bracket joins Select range A new height adjustable toilet bracket is the latest addition to the Pressalit Care Select range. Available in both electric and manual lifting options, the Pressalit Care Select toilet bracket provides a smooth, horizontal lift to assist in this ease of transfer. The electric hand control is operated with the simple press of a button, and is ideal for multiuser bathrooms where frequent height adjustment is required. The manual option is operated by means of an easily accessible handle which can be mounted on either side of the toilet, and is the preferred option for bathrooms where periodic adjustment is the norm. (

 enq 037 0844 880 6950 * uk@pressalit.com

In response to demand for a slim line macerator for the UK market, Saniflo has launched Sanislim, a super sleek macerator pump measuring just 13cm deep, which is perfect for creating a contemporary cloakroom or en suite facility anywhere in the home. Sanislim can take waste from a single WC, a washbasin and a shower and can even be fitted with a Sanialarm, to let you know if any maintenance is required, and thanks to its super slim design, Sanislim perfectly complements today’s sleek, slender designs of sanitaryware. *

sales@saniflo.co.uk

(

020 8842 0033

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enq 038

A total approach enhances 'outstanding' provision 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

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Public Sector Build Journal 49 55

Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

Sureclad to be specified stateside

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Shackerley’s ventilated facades have been specified for developments across the education sector including the Grimsby Institute University Centre

501.6-09. These results were described as “extraordinary” and “unique” in test reports prepared by PROCON, Crossville’s technical consultancy appointed to oversee the testing. Accordingly, Sureclad was deemed “a proven and safe system for exterior walls in active US seismic zones such as Florida”. Static air pressure testing (in accordance with ASTM E 330-02) showed that the Sureclad facade could withstand a force of up to 610kg/m2, equivalent to the wind pressures exerted on a 150m high building in a maximum high wind velocity zone of 150mph. The integrity of the system was also maintained when subjected to impact testing, simulating the force of high velocity windborne debris (following ASTM E1886-05 and ASTM E 1996-05 test methodologies), and to a series of extreme heating and cooling cycles (to AAMA 505.501-07). Crossville Executive Vice President of Sales Mark Shannon commented: “Shackerley has 50 years of success in this industry, including two Queen’s Awards for Enterprise in the Innovation category. The superior range of products combined with our 27 years of leading the domestic porcelain tile industry makes for an excellent partnership that will take the application of ventilated facade systems to a new level in the US.”

enq 040 info@shackerley.com ( 0800 783 0391 

n the UK and Eire, Shackerley’s Sureclad ventilated cladding – compliant with all relevant British and European standards, CWCT standards for systemised building envelopes and NHBC technical requirements – has enhanced and protected buildings across the health, education, hotel, leisure, general commercial, retail and large scale residential sectors for over a decade. Crossville is to offer stateside specifiers the patented Queen’s Award-winning Sureclad Access system which has successfully completed an extensive series of demanding architectural and engineering assessments in the US, proving its

50 Public Sector Build Journal

suitability for installation in regions prone to earthquakes, hurricanes and other climatic extremes. This specialist work was carried out at the Philadelphia HQ of Architectural Testing Inc, a leading test house conducting structural performance test methods as established by AAMA, ASTM, SPRI, MiamiDade, CCMC Technical Guides, and ICCES Acceptance Criteria for building code compliance. In tests to simulate earthquake conditions, a 3m high Sureclad Access ceramic granite ventilated facade remained intact after enduring a ‘seismic drift’ of twice the distance required to meet AAMA

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Shackerley (Holdings) Group Ltd has signed a groundbreaking deal with American porcelain manufacturing giant, Crossville Inc, which will see the Lancashire manufacturer's UK market leading Sureclad ceramic granite ventilated cladding systems promoted across the US and Canada.

Many recently completed healthcare facilities have been clad with Shackerley’s ceramic granite

Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

Steni panels meet a cladding challenge The robustness of Steni UK's cladding panels has helped meet the architect's design for the colourful exterior of the redeveloped City School in Sheffield. Some 3000m2 of Steni’s fibreglass reinforced polymer composite 7mm Colour panels, in a total of eight shades, has been used on the facade and main entrance soffit of Phases 1 and 2 of the £22 million Building Schools for the Future (BSF) project. The redeveloped school was designed by architects at HLM to be inspiring to all, including the community which has access to its facilities after school hours. Students were involved in looking at key factors in the planning process such as design, sustainability,

landscape and technology. Steni’s lightweight panels, which feature a smooth surface of 100% acrylic that is electron beam cured without the use of solvents, were installed in long horizontal and vertical bands and in colours ranging from light yellow to dark grey by specialist subcontractor NG Developments. The rainscreen element used structural adhesive onto an aluminium sub-structure and the remainder was made up into Steni-faced composite panels and glazed into a low-rise

* maurice@steni.co.uk

aluminium glazing system. NG’s Ian Dunn said: “The rainscreen cladding was particularly challenging due to the numerous differing colours and especially the sizes of the panels required for the architect’s scheme. The panels were structurally bonded to the carrier system which was carried out under specific weather conditions and within tight temperature and moisture levels. But the Steni panels are a robust product which helped with the installation of the larger panel areas.”

( 01978 812111

 enq 041

Edge protection for metal roofs

Redland launches new PV solution Redland is launching InDax, a costeffective solution for contractors and specifiers looking for an integrated PV system that can be used both for new build and retrofit contracts. InDax is supplied as a package complete with fixings and flashing in individual modules. The minimal number of parts and low weight makes for quick and easy installation. InDax modules have been thoroughly tested to ensure they provide the same levels of weather-tightness and resistance to wind uplift as roof tiles while the technology used for the PV laminate delivers one of the most efficient power outputs on the market. (

 enq 042 0870 870 2595 * info.redland@monier.com

Safesite has expanded its range of edge protection systems with the introduction of KeeGuard Topfix for standing seam and metal profile roofs. Designed specifically to provide collective protection for metal roofs, KeeGuard Topfix is available in galvanised or aluminium options and comprises a base plate with multiple fixing centres which is fixed directly on to the profile sheeting. This unique plate design allows the system to be fitted to a wide range of profile sheet centres. Base plates for standing seam roofs are fixed using non-penetrative clamps while rivets and butyl sealing strip are used on metal profile roofs for minimal penetration. *

info@safesite.co.uk

(

01293 529977

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enq 043

JJI-Joists carbon accounting adds up for CfSH Environmental sustainability is key to the manufacture of James Jones Timber Systems’ JJI-Joists, and the company’s ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management System ensures that JJIs are making a real contribution to sustainable construction. Manufactured in the UK, FSC certified and EUTR compliant, JJIs are helping designers and specifiers meet required levels of Code for Sustainable Homes. Business Development Manager Mark Tilston comments: “Our negative carbon footprint is proving a real positive for our customers, as we can apply it to individual house design and to supply contract volumes, helping clients achieve their Zero Carbon construction goals.” *

jji-joists@jamesjones.co.uk

(

01309 671111

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enq 044

Public Sector Build Journal 51 55

HVAC/HVP owned by the public sector. The boilers were installed in the third floor plant room at Wigan Town Hall by Hayman Mechanical Services Ltd. This floor also provides office accommodation, so the Sirius FS range’s low operating noise level makes it a good choice for such locations. The boilers serve both constant and variable temperature circuits, running fan convectors, air handling units and radiators. New pipework was installed to each of the boilers, with the headers connected to existing pump circuits. The heating system is connected to a Building Energy Management System which provides monitoring and control functions including zone control. Potterton Commercial’s Sirius FS is a technically sophisticated range of floor standing, stainless steel condensing boilers, backed by a comprehensive five year warranty. Using the latest stainless steel heat exchanger technology in conjunction with a sophisticated controls system, the range delivers maximum condensing boiler performance. Sirius FS is easy to handle and install and, with ample internal space providing easy access to key components, is simple to service and maintain.

Potterton range shows major energy savings Baxi Commercial Division has supplied five floor standing condensing boilers for a refurbishment of Wigan Town Hall's heating system which has shown a 22% energy saving over the year to May 2012, compared with the previous year's usage. The five Potterton Commercial Sirius 160kW floor standing condensing boilers were selected by consulting engineers NPS North West Ltd. in a joint venture with Wigan

Metropolitan Borough Council. The NPS Group specialises in providing property design and management services to both public and private sectors and is wholly

* geraldine.clegg@baxicommercialdivision.com

Saniflo unveils low level Traymatic

When you want a low level shower tray you want it to be exactly that, low level. This generally means that you have to excavate the floor or use a riser kit. Neither option is ideal, and if you do need to use a riser kit, or adjustable feet, you will actually be raising the overall height of the shower tray by 100mm. Traymatic from Saniflo offers the perfect solution. Traymatic is a shower tray at only 46mm high and is supplied with either an internal or external pump. Traymatic will discharge in 22mm pipework a distance of 2.5m vertically and 20m horizontally. (

 enq 046 020 8842 0033 * sales@saniflo.co.uk

52 Public Sector Build Journal

( 0845 070 1055

 enq 045

Johnstone's reigns supreme at Rainford High The ambitious refurbishment of Rainford High Technology College in St. Helens has been given a helping hand thanks to a considered paint specification featuring products from Johnstone’s Ecological Solutions range and Ambrose Ellis Painting Contractors. In order to meet the stringent requirements demanded by main contractor Interserve Construction, it was vital that the paint specification not only helped to contribute to the overall environmental performance of the newly refurbished buildings but also ensured a quick turnaround and a highly durable, low maintenance finish. *

tiplady@ppg.com

(

01924 354100

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enq 047

KI - Postura+ adds a splash of colour KI has supplied Postura+ chairs for Highfields & Penn Fields School in Wolverhampton. The client required a robust cost-effective, stackable seating solution. The single piece moulding ensures that there are no fixings to loosen over time and the chair is lightweight which makes for ease of stacking. The most important of all considerations for the students is that the chair provides ergonomic support and is very comfortable. Manufactured in the UK, KI’s Postura+ range comprises seven sizes of stackable chairs and is available in a variety of colours. The chair is ergonomically designed to promote good posture and provide exceptional comfort. *

sales@kieurope.com

(

01908 317766

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enq 048

HVAC/HVP

Evinox launches next generation ModuSat HIU Evinox has recently announced the launch of its next generation range of ModuSat Heat Interface Units for communal/district heating systems, designed and developed internally and manufactured in its new production facility. Building on the success of the existing ModuSat, the new range includes floor standing units with 80, 150, 200, 300 and 400L integrated hot water tanks, single & twin plate instantaneous units and units that provide combined heating and cooling. The comprehensive range of Modusat HIU’s provide a solution for all sizes and types of property – from social housing apartments to luxury homes. ModuSat product enhancements include: Circulation pump upgraded to Wilo PWM – this provides compliance with 2015 pump efficiency regulations; Pressure Independent Control Valves (PICV) – this eliminates the requirement for three separate valves for the regulation of differential pressure, flow and heat energy; New, improved and intuitive ViewSmart

* info@evinox.co.uk

Room Controller with an optional ENE3 compliant model – this provides 2 credits towards the Code for Sustainable Homes; New control board that will work with TCP/IP and provides operation of up to three heating circuits; and Inbuilt PaySmart pre-payment technology can be activated remotely, which means no requirement for any additional externally mounted equipment. Evinox combines the expertise and independence to deliver lifetime communal heating packages for any project brief.It provides a complete Communal Heating solution including Central Plant Room Equipment, Modusat Heat Interface Units Service and Maintenance Packages and Energy Metering, Billing and Remote Surveillance.

( 01372 722277

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Altro walks the walk of champions St John's Primary School in Kent has a bold and colourful new entrance area and corridor created using Altro XpressLay safety flooring, originally laid at Olympics venues for London 2012. The entrance to St John’s Primary now features coloured circles that replicate the famous Olympic rings with the words ‘Corridor of Champions’ in the centre. In an area used as a dropping-off point by parents, the flooring has been inlaid with a compass image and a barometer created using Altro Suprema II which sits alongside coloured weather symbols inserted into the corridor floor. Altro XpressLay safety flooring has a unique underside emboss that forms tiny air channels that allow any moisture in the subfloor to escape, which makes it possible to install over existing sound and secure flooring surfaces such as vinyl tiles. Supplied with free Altro Looselay double sided tape specifically formulated to work with the underside of the flooring, Altro XpressLay can also be installed in situations where adhered safety flooring is inappropriate, such as historical and listed

buildings. With a thickness of 2.2mm and a slip resistance rating of equal to or over 36 TRRL, the flooring is very durable and practical, perfect for areas of general circulation such as school corridors, classrooms, hospital streets and shops. Being 100% recyclable, Altro XpressLay also contributes to reducing the environmental impact of a flooring specification with an A+ BRE Generic Green Guide Rating for Safety Flooring. In addition to the flooring, Altro Whiterock Chameleon wall cladding has been used in the reception area. Perfect for feature walls, it provides a water-tight, wipe clean, smooth surface and is highly durable.

enq 050 enquiries@altro.com ( 01462 489516 

Public Sector Build Journal 53 55

Focus & Innovation tonne steel roof; and thermal breaks had to provide cantilever connectivity around the perimeter. The load cases included positive and negative moments, and a supported steel structure, so the configuration used two KST-QST22 units per connection. With steel having a relatively high thermal conductivity, product performance integrity had to be assured. Schöck turned to the Oxford Institute for Sustainable Development, for endorsement. A surface temperature factor (fRsi) analysis was carried out and the result was a highly effective 0.82 for the thermal bridge in this case. Prior to the Olympic contracts being placed, the principal contractor, Lend Lease, needed to satisfy themselves that Schöck could meet the demands set by the stringent Olympic quality and delivery standards. After a rigorous inspection of the production facility at Baden-Baden, in Southern Germany, they were left in no doubt that Schöck’s manufacturing and support services were capable and totally committed to the project.

Huge demand for Schöck Isokorb at 2012 Olympics Schöck was the supplier of structural thermal break products to the Aquatics Centre and Olympic Village for the London 2012 Games. In the Olympic Village alone there were around 10,000 thermally broken structural connections. For podium slabs and pre-cast balcony applications the Isokorb type K, for concrete-to-concrete connectivity was used. Types KST, QP and Schöck SLD dowels combined to secure the winter garden balconies. Types KS14 and KS20 for steel-to-concrete, provided the solution

for connecting the various concrete frames to steel balconies. At ground and first floor levels enormous quantities of type K concrete-to-concrete units were required for large slab sections. The Aquatics Centre was also a challenge. It is a huge building with a 3200

 *

enq 051

design@schoeck.co.uk ( 01865 290890

Academy selects screening with style Yeoman Rainguard retains its CHAS accreditation With over 30 years’ experience, a wealth of knowledge and the widest choice of products on the market today, Yeoman Rainguard has once again retained its CHAS (The Contractors Health & Safety Scheme) certification ‘mark’. CHAS is established as the market leader for health and safety pre-qualification in the UK. It is available to suppliers (those who provide goods and services) and to organisations (buyers) looking for suitably competent suppliers. Yeoman Rainguard has established itself as the UK market leader in rainwater systems providing gutters, pipes and hoppers in a range of colours and materials including GRP, Cast Iron, Aluminium, Copper, Zinc and Stainless Steel. (

 enq 052 0113 279 5854 * sallyann@rainguard.co.uk

54 Public Sector Build Journal

Around 240m2 of screening louvres, manufactured and installed by Maple, are providing an attractive architectural solution for concealing unsightly plant and car park areas at the new £26.3m Waterhead Academy in Oldham. Maple’s versatile louvre system was selected by the project’s main contractor, Willmott Dixon Construction, both for its seamless appearance and also its ease of disassembly. Willmott Dixon’s Construction Manager, Daniel Miller comments: “Whether it’s brise soleil, screening louvres or interior blinds, we know we can always rely on Maple to deliver high quality, cost-effective solutions, on time and on budget, and the company’s products and service for the Waterhead Academy were no exception.” *

jay@maplesunscreening.co.uk

(

0845 384 5000

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enq 053

Plinth 2000 couches ensure safety and comfort The treatment couch is a fundamental piece of equipment for many hands-on practitioners, whether you are providing clinical treatments and examinations, physiotherapy and massage, sports therapy, beauty and health spa procedures. The couch plays an important role in ensuring the safety and comfort of your client during sometimes lengthy procedures and affords the necessary dynamic stability for carrying out your treatment in the most efficient manner possible. The regular lounger-style treatment couch or plinth is the most widely used format and there are a number of different configurations to suit a range of treatments, procedures or therapies, as well as budget levels and workspace considerations. *

sales@plinth2000.com

(

01449 767887

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Focus & Innovation

Notts Sport provides quality synthetic surface Leading Cheshire Hockey Club, Deeside Ramblers, have had their synthetic pitch resurfaced by England Hockey's Approved Suppliers Notts Sport with a new sand dressed synthetic grass that has been described by the Club's coach and former Pakistan Captain Ghazanfar Ali as being "the best sand dressed surface I have ever played on¨. Notts Sport began working with the Club in 2010 after being invited to complete a free pitch condition report and performance test on the original sand filled pitch. The service Notts Sport provided meant that the Club had the most accurate information possible, without incurring upfront consultancy fees or development costs. Howard Green, Chairman of Deeside Ramblers Hockey Club, has been delighted with the support and advice Notts Sport offered the club. “We were very impressed with the way that Notts Sport offered to help with every aspect of the project and the level of support they gave, nothing was too much

for them. This new facility will allow the Club to develop the membership and provide us with additional capacity to promote hockey development within Cheshire and we can’t wait for the new season to start!” Notts Sport are the only Approved Suppliers to the England Hockey Board and have over 29 years’ experience of delivering high quality synthetic sport and play facilities throughout the UK with a proven track record of delivering a wide range of solutions for customers.  *

enq 055

info@nottssport.com ( 01455 883730

Knauf grows range with Sheetrock

Simple installation of ceilings and partitions Providing the maximum performance with minimum fuss, Knauf Metal Sections are easily installed in any modern interior or refurbishment project to construct partitions and suspended ceilings in systems that are rigorously tested to meet a wide range of acoustic and fire protection requirements. As part of an integrated range of plasterboards and accessories, Knauf Metal Sections offer designers a choice of configurations and performances that will fulfil the demands of the most complex projects and will be backed by a complete warranty as part of a compliant Knauf system. (

 enq 056 01795 424499 * kd@web-response.co.uk

Knauf – a manufacturer of lightweight building materials and systems – is now offering the Sheetrock range of ready-mixed jointing compounds and spray finishing plasters, along with the Tuff Hide primer/surface, following its acquisition of USG Corporation’s European interests. Sheetrock All Purpose Ready-Mixed is an easy working product for fast, smooth joint finishing. Good for taping and finishing, it delivers both smooth application and long lasting performance. Meanwhile Tuff-Hide Primer-Surfacer is designed to prime and finish drywall in a single spray application. Used in concert with ProSpray as part of the company’s Spray Surface finish system, it’s a durable hard wearing coating that delivers a smoother finish. *

kd@web-response.co.uk

(

01795 424499

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enq 057

First homes must cater for TV savvy generation More than half (52%) of 18-34 year olds in the UK now expect access to a digital TV service as standard in their homes, according to a nationwide survey commissioned by Sky. Only a quarter of those surveyed still consider digital TV services a luxury in their home, and a mere 4% would settle for just terrestrial TV. Brendan Hegarty, Head of Sky Communal TV, comments: “Young people now expect a broader choice of TV programming at their fingertips. It is our job, working together with landlords and property developers, to make sure that future generations of home owners and tenants receive the services they demand.” *

tradeteam@skyhomesteam.co.uk

(

08442 410 331

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Public Sector Build Journal 55

Focus & Innovation

Innovation for a better and brighter future Advanced Technical Panels (ATP), part of the James Latham Group, has announced the arrival of an exciting new plastic material which is certain to make a big impact, especially within the leisure and play equipment sectors. Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, HDPE (high-density polyethylene) which will be branded ‘Harlequin’ by ATP, is a totally unique material that, as well as being

David Briggs, Director of ATP comments: “Already we can see all kinds of applications for Harlequin and we know that in other countries it has been used extensively in the manufacture of children’s playground and educational equipment either for use inside or out. Plus, because it won’t fade, scratch, swell or split and dirt, graffiti and permanent markers are easily removable, it will stay looking brighter and better for longer.” Other potential applications include packaging, outdoor furniture such as benches, tables and fencing, floors for artificial ice and hockey rinks as well as the marine industry. The Harlequin range, which is also 100% recyclable, is available in 19 different bright and impactful colour combinations. It also complements ATP’s other products for the play sector including Multiwall, a birch plywood which is coated on both sides with decorative polypropylene laminate and, as well as playground equipment, is also used in sports fencing and rebound boards.

completely resistant to the elements, is also extremely difficult to damage or break, therefore making it a very low maintenance and long lasting option.

 *

enq 059

atp@lathams.co.uk ( 0113 387 0850

Hep2O turns up the heat on UFH

New product sets the tone for paving Long Rake Spar continually strives to introduce unique new products to the trade. The sales of its Flamingo chippings have excelled in this respect, already outselling many established products such as Plum and Blue Slate in both bulk bags and pre-pack. Following on from this success the company now introduces Onyx, a unique, decorative chipping. The enriching, golden, buff and apricot tones of this 20mm angular chipping uplift and contrast beautifully with paving. Onyx is available to order in either bulk bags or pre-pack bags with complimentary samples available by immediate delivery. (

 enq 060 01629 630133 * admin@longrakespar.co.uk

56 Public Sector Build Journal

Wavin – a leading supplier of water management, plumbing and drainage systems – is harnessing the power of its Hep2O brand to better promote the company’s innovative range of underfloor heating (UFH) products. Hep2O is a push-fit plumbing system for hot and cold water supply and is a perfect ‘brand parent’ for the UFH portfolio, currently known under the Thermoboard name. The range will be now known as Hep2O underfloor heating, comprising a comprehensive line up of panels, piping, manifolds and heating controls that make the installation of a UFH system simple, regardless of floor structure. The unified range will be known as Hep2O Plumbing & Heating. *

debbie.harber@leclick.co.uk

(

01709 856300

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enq 061

Eco2solar set to complete solar hat-trick Eco2Solar has secured a hat-trick of contracts with Mansell Construction to install solar PV on 101 new homes throughout the West Midlands. Eco2Solar has been appointed to install a series of solar energy systems on new homes at the Edgbaston Square development, Marlfields in Redditch and Eastern Gateway in West Bromwich. One of the biggest projects is at Marlfields in Redditch for Redditch Co-operative Homes. Eco2Solar will install 1kWp solar energy systems on 79 sustainable Norwegian timber-frame houses at Marlfields. It comprises three 250 watt solar panels and one inverter on 48 homes and four 250 watt solar panels and one inverter on three homes. *

enquiries@eco2solar.co.uk

(

01562 977977

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Focus & Innovation

New WC provides enhanced hygiene RAK's new edition RAKRIMLESS Compact Deluxe WC offers a host of benefits - in terms health, hygiene, ease of maintenance, the environment and accessibility. It also features a stylish contemporary design - and is the most competitively-priced quality rimless WC on the market. RAK’s rimless format eliminates the need for a hidden rim or channel. On flushing, water is fired from three separate jets – which ensures that the whole surface of the pan is cleaned, both vertically and horizontally. As germs cannot collect under a rim, the completely visible surface is easy to clean – and the need to direct cleaning products under hidden channels is completely eliminated. The ‘new edition’ model features a quickrelease soft seat, so areas under hinges can be easily cleaned. Other new features include a taller 45cm comfort height pan, so the WC is comfortable and accessible for all family members and wheelchair

users. The close-coupled back-to-wall toilet also complies with the Department of Health’s HTM64 Standard, is WRAS (Water Regulations Approved Scheme) approved and has a dual flush, which cuts water usage by a third. Established in 1991, RAK Ceramics is the world’s largest manufacturer of ceramic and porcelain tiles. Its range also includes ceramic sinks, sanitary ware, brassware and acrylic baths, with products currently exported to more than 150 countries.  *

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marketing@rakceramics.co.uk ( 01730 237850

Gova-Wall - solid recycled plastic fence system

Knauf rallies to the BIM revolution Knauf – a leading manufacturer of lightweight building materials and systems – is among the first to make Building Information Modelling (BIM) objects of its products available for download. Knauf’s BIM objects are available in Autodesk’s Revit, the main BIM software format, with 25 key partitioning and walling products being launched at first while others are currently in development. BIM objects ready to be downloaded free of charge from http://www.knauf.co.uk/design-support/ bim include Baseboard, Core Board, Performance Plus and Fire Panel. (

 enq 064 01795 424499 * kd@web-response.co.uk

Constructed from the tried and tested tongue and groove boards and posts, this close board fence system is maintenance free, rot proof, graffiti resistant and has a life span of approximately 40 years. All finishing profiles and caps are made from aluminium. Made from 100% high quality recycled plastic, GOVAPLAST, Gova-Wall keeps its apperance in all seasons without any need for costly, labour intensive treatments. Gova-Wall’s solid boards will create a noise barrier where required, ideal for highways, housing, recreation parks, schools or gardens. Gova-Wall is available in black, brown, grey, green or beige so will fit aesthetically into any setting. *

info@goplastic.co.uk

(

02920 864095



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Brett paving design unites facilities Brett Landscaping has produced an aesthetically-pleasing, costeffective paving design that provides a cohesive identity for a refurbished healthcare and education complex in Surbiton. Brett Landscaping recommended a combination of Alpha Flow and Omega Flow permeable paving, complemented with decorative kerbs and Yorktone flag paving. Brett also manufactured a bespoke flat block kerb – a product that is not part of the company’s standard range – to deliver the optimum solution for the project’s requirements. The modern design of the Brett Alpha Flow permeable paving, together with Omega Flow’s classic rectangular block profile, enabled Farncombe Construction to meet the Surface Water Management requirements of the installation. *

landscapinginfo@brett.co.uk

(

0845 608 0570



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Public Sector Build Journal 57

Focus & Innovation

Helifix launches new technical product datasheets To complement its new technical brochure, ‘Principles, Products and Applications’, masonry repair specialist, Helifix, has launched a full set of individual product datasheets. These provide detailed information on every helical fixing in the range, identify those that carry CE Marking under the Construction Products Regulation and aid product selection, specification and installation. Each of the company’s new build and remedial wall ties, fixings, reinforcements and structural stabilisation products has its own dedicated product sheet detailing their applications, technical specifications, installation procedures and recommended tooling. For smartphone users, the datasheets feature a QR code for instant access to the relevant Helifix web page.

School increases capacity with Yorkon A new two-storey teaching block for Martin High School in Anstey, completed by off-site construction specialist, Yorkon, a member of the Portakabin Group, has been described as an ‘iconic building’. The new facility provides eight classrooms and 12 toilets. The Yorkon pre-installed high performance concrete floor has been used to deliver superior acoustics and a robust finish for a demanding secondary school environment. Full height curtain walling to the entrance has created an impressive exterior and a combination of spandrel panels between floors, brickwork and cedar cladding give the scheme a distinctive and contemporary appearance. (

info@helifix.co.uk

(

020 8735 5200



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An 'Outstanding' acoustic solution SAS International has manufactured over 400 linear metres of fully glazed partitioning for the new BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ Brent Civic Centre – the most sustainable local authority building to be completed in the UK. SAS International’s System 7000 partitioning was specified to manage acoustics and deflection. For the atrium, over 60m of SAS International’s fire resistant glazing was installed with up to 30 minutes integrity and insulation. The partitioning incorporates acoustic door over panels with attenuators containing acoustic pads. These glass panels are back painted which allows for natural ventilation between corridors and offices without compromising the acoustic performance of the partitioning system.

 enq 067 0845 2000 123 * info@yorkon.com

enquiries@sasintgroup.com

(

0118 929 0900



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Venture Housing protects homes with Pyroshield Dulux Trade Pyroshield Durable Eggshell has been used in the redecoration of Venture Court, a development of 16 flats in Liverpool, managed by Venture Housing Association. The key requirement of the redecoration programme was to achieve the mandatory Class O rating, of the Building Regulations Approved document B, for the high traffic areas such as the public spaces and escape routes. Following this assessment, Dulux Trade Pyroshield Durable Eggshell, a flame retardant coating that inhibits the spread of flame on previously painted surfaces, was selected for the scheme because it upgrades surfaces of fire classification from Class 3 to Class O to meet the regulations. *

duluxtraderesponse@tangerinepr.com

(

0870 242 1100



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Foremans hands over 5th project to Tata Steel Foremans Relocatable Building Systems, supplier of refurbished Portakabin buildings, has handed over its fifth building to Tata Steel in Scunthorpe – a new project office for a major redevelopment on the integrated steelmaking site. This latest scheme, which is sustainably constructed from recycled and refurbished steel-framed building modules, will accommodate around 60 project engineers who were previously working from a number of locations across the Scunthorpe site. Foremans supplied the building around 70% complete, with doors, windows, partitions, flooring, plumbing and electrics all pre-installed to reduce disruption to Tata Steel’s day-to-day operations. Data communications, fire and security systems were also installed by Foremans. *

info@foremansbuildings.co.uk

58 Public Sector Build Journal

(

01964 544344

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Portakabin acquires Oecon (Germany) Portakabin Limited is pleased to announce the acquisition of Oecon Mobilraum GmbH and its subsidiary companies. Oecon is a manufacturer and distributor of modular buildings in Germany having built an enviable reputation within the modular industry over the past 20 years, most notably in construction, construction related industries and a number of other sectors. The acquisition of Oecon is a key strategic move and very much part of the Portakabin Group’s European expansion plans. Oecon will complement the current Portakabin operations in France, Belgium and Holland and provide the necessary routes to market for the extensive range of Portakabin modular buildings. (

 enq 072 0845 401 0020 information@portakabin.co.uk

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