Refurb Projects August 2024

REFURB PROJECTS THE JOURNAL OF REPAIR, REPLACEMENT AND MAINTENANCE AUGUST 2024

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CONTENTS 

Vol. 34 No 250 AUGUST 2024 

SPECIAL FEATURES 

18 APPOINTMENTS 

10-13 AWARDS 

35-36 BUYERS GUIDE 

4-8 EDUCATION INFRASTRUCTURE 

17 INSULATION 

Funding from the Welsh Government has helped a Ruthin 

secondary school decarbonise their heating by replacing gas 

boilers with renewable air source heat pumps. 

Ysgol Brynhyfryd is a bilingual co-educational comprehensive 

school for over 1,000 pupils aged between 11 and 18 years of 

age in the beautiful valley of Clywd, in North Wales. Page 4. 

16 LIGHTING 

19-34 PROJECTS 

Publisher/ Editor: Carole Titmuss 

Editorial Assistants: Clive Titmuss, Sue Watson 

Advertising / Marketing: Lorraine Compton 

Subscriptions: Kay Knight 

Design / Graphics: Ian Purves, Jonathan Milburn 

This journal includes editorial photographs provided and paid 

for by suppliers. 

Refurbishment Projects incorporating Refurbishment 

Products is published by 

Sheen Publishing Ltd, 

50 Queens Road, Buckhurst Hill, Essex, IG9 5DD, UK 

Tel: 020 8504 1661 

Fax: 020 8505 4336 

Email: editor@refurbprojects.com 

Twitter: @RefurbProjects 

Refurb Projects is available on subscription. 

Annual rate: UK £28. 

Europe: £36. 

Overseas: £40. 

Single Copies: UK: £5 

Overseas: £10 

ISSN 1475-1135 

www.refurbprojects.com 

REFURBISHMENT PROJECTS, AUGUST 2024 3

EDUCATION INFRASTRUCTURE 

Low carbon funding helps Ruthin School 

to decarbonise 

Funding from the Welsh 

Government has helped a 

Ruthin secondary school 

decarbonise their heating by 

replacing gas boilers with renewable 

air source heat pumps. 

Ysgol Brynhyfryd is a bilingual 

co-educational comprehensive 

school for over 1,000 pupils aged 

between 11 and 18 years of age in 

the beautiful valley of Clywd, in 

North Wales. 

The school is maintained by the 

Denbighshire Education Authority 

and in 2019 Council Members 

decided to declare a climate and 

ecological emergency and to work to 

net zero by 2030. 

“As part of this we are looking at 

all our buildings and in particular 

schools as this is an area where we 

know we can make a direct impact 

on carbon emissions,” explained Cllr 

Barry Mellor, Denbighshire County 

Council. 

Councillor Barry Mellor was full of praise for the 

school for allowing the work to be done adding: 

“This will lead to savings in both running costs and 

carbon emissions for both of us.” 

The solution was the installation 

of 70kW of solar photovoltaic panels 

on the school roof, along with 

replacing three gas boilers with two 

commercial air source heat pumps. 

“Between the schemes, the air 

source heat pumps and the solar 

panels system that we installed here, 

it is estimated that the school will 

save an average of £17 to £19 

thousand per annum, along with 28 

tonnes of carbon,” commented Ben 

Musgrave, Director of JM Renewable 

Solutions, who installed the systems. 

JM Renewables replaced the 

existing gas boilers in the school 

with two 40kw CAHV air source heat 

pumps from Mitsubishi Electric. The 

school building has underfloor floor 

heating throughout. Coupled with 

this JM Renewables installed a 

further 75kW of solar panels on the 

building’s roof, to help with the 

running costs. 

Although the CAHV units are 

4 AUGUST 2024, REFURBISHMENT PROJECTS

very quiet at 64 dBA, JM Renewables 

built an acoustic enclosure as the 

heat pumps are outside classroom 

windows. The project was completed 

over the Easter half term and the 

plant room was also refitted with a 

new 800 litre buffer tank and 

associated pumps. The entire system 

was fully operational on the day the 

children came back after the break. 

The CAHV heat pumps achieve 

70°C water temperatures down to - 

20°C ambient temperature to deliver 

continuous heating. Multiple unit 

cascade control offers capacity from 

7.8kW to 640kW to make the system 

suitable for a wide range of 

applications. 

The heat pumps meet the design 

temperature of the school, so it was 

almost a direct swop from the 

boilers,” explained Elliot Sullivan, 

Head of Mechanical Division at JM 

Renewables. “The efficiency of the 

heat pumps installed should be 

around 300 to 400 per cent, so for 

every one kilowatt of electricity 

consumed, it will deliver 3 to 4 

kilowatts of heat to the building”. 

The entire project to upgrade the 

heating and install the additional 

solar panels took almost four 

months and the JM Renewables 

installers were full of praise for the 

way the school caretakers helped 

them get the job done. 

It’s been a lot of hard work to 

get the air source heat pumps, the 

solar panels and some additional LED 

lighting, commented Tefor Jones, 

Head Teacher at Ysgol Brynhyfryd. 

“However, it’s been worth it as 

it’s all part of a long line of 

initiatives and plans that have 

happened in the school to make the 

school more efficient as we move 

forward, 

Denbighshire County Council has 

now completed upgrades in around 

30 schools out of around 70 schools 

in the County. For Ysgol Brynhyfryd 

the Council was able to secure 

Welsh Government Low Carbon Heat 

Grant funding for 90% of the 

project with the County Council 

finding the other 10%. 

The Low Carbon Heat Capital 

Grant funding is intended for capital 


works associated with retrofitting 

low carbon heat solutions in nondomestic, 

local authority-owned 

buildings. 

Councillor Barry Mellor was full 

of praise for the school for allowing 

the work to be done adding: “This 

will lead to savings in both running 

costs and carbon emissions for both 

of us.” 

Installation Summary: 

2 x 40kw CAHV-P air source heat 

pumps 

https://youtu.be/gX8RCog9lyk?feat 

ure=shared 

les.mitsubishielectric.co.uk 



IG Masonry Support solution is ahead of the curve 

Pershore Junction is new 

state-of-the-art student 

accommodation in 

Birmingham that has been 

built for the growing number of 

students at Aston University, 

University College Birmingham and 

Birmingham City University. The 

regeneration of a former BT 

brownfield site, this 167-bed 

accommodation in Stirchley consists 

of 101 studios, a student hub, leisure 

facilities, a retail unit and an 

enhanced public space. Targeting a 

BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, this 

contemporary building comprises 

brickwork and terracotta tile 

detailing and features a stunning 

curved bull-nose brick façade due to 

the site being bounded by Pershore 

Road and Dogpool Lane. 

Following a tour of IG Masonry 

Support’s manufacturing operations 

in Swadlincote and Brick Cutting 

facility in Overseal, brickwork 

contractor Meath Build Ltd chose IG 

Masonry Support to design and 

manufacture the masonry support 

and brick soffit package for the 

development. 

THE CHALLENGE 

The project’s unusual, curved façade 

was one of the defining challenges 

on this build as it would be 

extremely difficult and timeconsuming 

to complete with 

traditional hand-laid brickwork. This 

design feature required IG Masonry 

Support’s unrivalled experience and 

ability to deliver complex brickwork 

with precision and efficiency. In 

addition, the use of a steel frame 

rather than a concrete slab 

introduced further complexities. This 

would mean that components had 

to be pre-set, with masonry support 

specially designed to fit around the 

steel frame structure. Furthermore, 

the masonry support had to be 

spanned to accommodate breaks in 

the wing plates around the piers. 

THE SOLUTION 

Following a site survey, IG Masonry 

Support produced a variety of 

solutions to overcome the design 

challenges presented during the 

development of this student 

accommodation. This required 

coordination and regular design 

meetings with all parties to avoid 

any clashes with other building 

elements and ensure the build 

remained on schedule. 

A1 fire-rated Brick Slip Lintels 

were required for the smaller 

openings on both the ground and 

first levels of the build (under 3.6m) 

while bespoke Curved Lintels were 

required to support the tiled finish 

on the curved façade. A1 fire-rated 

and carbon neutral B.O.S.S. A1 

systems in soldier course bond were 

required for larger openings on 

levels one to four of the building. 

Many of these were fabricated as 

smaller units to account for the 

curved façade design. 

On the curved run of B.O.S.S. A1, 

there were several high load areas 

with windows above and in-between 

the brick piers. IG Masonry Support 

therefore had to adapt its units to 

suit these loads and the tiled finish 

on the curved façade. Rather than 

the usual serrated lock washers, the 

bespoke lintels were designed and 

manufactured by IG Masonry 

Support with rear restraint which 

involved fabricating holes on the 

back of the lintels to provide more 

surface area and thus more space 

for additional mortar. This would 

ensure extra support for the extreme 

loads and double skin brickwork. 

These lintels also matched the curve 

of the façade. 

Through close collaboration with 

brickwork contractor Meath Build 

Ltd and the design team, IG Masonry 

Support provided technical and 

design assistance, and a range of 

bespoke brickwork solutions for the 

Pershore Junction’s unique curved 

façade detail. The company’s onsite 

expertise and offsite manufacturing 

capability proved integral to 

realising this stand-out architectural 

feature and its aesthetically pleasing 

finish. 

John Flynn, Managing Director of 

Meath Build Ltd, said: “While the 

project threw up some challenges 

along the way with design, IG 

Masonry Support solved any 

problems and the project was 

handed over on time and on budget. 

Meath Build Ltd look forward to 

working with IG Masonry Support 

on the next project.” 

Giedre Jonuskaite, Senior 

Architectural Designer at Glen 

Howells Architects, added: “IG 

Masonry Support dealt really well 

with some of the design challenges 

on Pershore Junction project. The 

variety of products IG provided 

helped to maintain the design and 

deliver to the highest standard.” 

https://igmasonrysupport.com/ 


McCoy Contractors awarded 

Oaks Student Village Phase 4 & 5 


Leading provider of 

groundworks McCoy 

Contractors has been 

appointed to deliver the 

groundworks and hard landscaping 

for Phase 4 and 5 of The Oaks 

Student Village in Coventry. This 

prestigious project will provide an 

additional 1,210 rooms in purposebuilt 

accommodation for students 

attending the nearby University of 

Warwick. 

The Oaks Student Village, 

designed by architects Corstorphine 

& Wright, comprises nine buildings 

ranging from five to six stories. 

Phase 1 delivered 378 beds in 2021, 

with Phase 2 and 3 adding 639 more 

rooms. Phase 4 and 5 will deliver a 

further 1,209 rooms. Having 

successfully completed the 

groundworks for Phases 1-3 to the 

client's satisfaction, McCoy was 

awarded the latest £8 million 

groundworks package by main 

contractor McLaren Construction. 

McCoy is delivering a range of 

groundworks including earthworks, 

foundations, reinforced retaining 

Marshland Primary 

Academy to benefit 

from low-cost, highly 

efficient renewable 

heating with Kensa’s Ground Source 

Heat Pump installation 

Marshland Primary Academy, in 

Moorends, Doncaster, is preparing 

for the future by switching its 

heating and hot water system from 

gas boilers to highly efficient, lowcarbon 

Ground Source Heat Pumps. 

Kensa Contracting, the UK’s 

leading ground source heat pump 

solutions provider, is delivering the 

retrofit project, and on Tuesday 18th 

June 2024, representatives were on 

hand to show the school’s pupils 

how freely available, renewable heat 

energy from the ground will be used 

to keep classrooms warm for the 

next 100 years. 

Switching from gas to 

electrically powered ground source 

heat pumps will decarbonise the 

school's heating and hot water 

system, reducing the CO2 emissions 

it produces from heat by as much as 

77%. 

The decarbonisation project, 

which started in May and is 

expected to be completed in 

October, has been part-funded by 

walls, external drainage, attenuation 

tanks, service trenching, and hard 

landscaping across the extensive site. 

Despite challenging weather and 

groundwater conditions, McCoy is 

working ahead of schedule, 

underscoring their commitment to 

delivering complex projects 

efficiently. 

“McCoys has made a fantastic 

start to our project at 120 

Longwood Close. 

On a project with some 

challenging details the team have 

performed to a very high standard 

through a difficult and wet winter,” 

said Alex Derbyshire, Construction 

Manager, McLaren Construction. 

“McCoys has been very agile 

through change and have enhanced 

our project team with their vast 

knowledge and expertise in 

groundworks. The helpful and 

approachable nature of the team at 

McCoys has gone a long way to the 

current successes at Longwood Close 

moving into the summer months,” 

added Alex Derbyshire. 

Renewable heating renovation at 

South Yorkshire Primary School 

the Government’s Condition 

Improvement Fund and will see 18 

boreholes drilled deep beneath the 

school’s playing field to access the 

renewable energy source. 

Once installed, six new ground 

source heat pumps will convert this 

energy into usable heat for the 

school’s upgraded heating and hot 

water system. The heat pumps will 

also be housed indoors, shielded 

from the elements, with some 

located where the school’s current 

gas boilers are. 

Along with the heat pumps and 

ground source infrastructure 

installation, the school’s green 

heating renovations also include 

new radiators and solar PVT being 

fitted. These measures will help the 

primary academy achieve the 

highest possible energy efficiencies 

while also providing greater energy 

security. 

This latest project follows a 

string of successful school ground 

source heat pump installations 

undertaken by Kensa, which is the 

Department for Education’s 

preferred heat pump method for 

decarbonising heat in schools.* 

School ground source heat pump 

projects completed by Kensa include 

installations at Richmond Hill 

Primary School, also in Doncaster, 

Stamfordham Primary School in 

Newcastle-Upon-Tyne and a one-ofa-kind 

installation for Ffynnon Taf 

Primary School in Taffs Well, Wales. 

Commenting, Penny Marshall, 

Deputy Headteacher at Marshland 

Primary Academy, said: "We are very 

"We are extremely proud to 

continue our involvement in this 

landmark student accommodation 

development," said Chris Haughey, 

Managing Director of McCoy 

Contractors. "Being re-appointed by 

McLaren Construction for Phases 4 

& 5 is a testament to our team's 

dedication and expertise in 

delivering high-quality groundworks 

on large-scale projects. The Oaks 

Student Village is setting new 

standards for purpose-built student 

living in the Midlands, and we're 

excited to play a key role in bringing 

this exceptional development to 

fruition." 

McCoy's strong health and safety 

practices have also been recognised 

on-site, recently ranking 3rd out of 

45 subcontractors – further 

highlighting the company's 

professionalism and commitment to 

creating safe working environments. 

The final phase of McCoy's works 

at The Oaks Student Village is 

scheduled for completion in 2025. 

https://www.mccoycontractors.co.uk/ 

excited by the new innovative 

heating system. It is wonderful for 

Marshland to be at the forefront of 

new technology. At the same time, 

hopefully, it will save us money on 

our heating bills and, most 

importantly, support our quest to 

help combat climate change.” 

Discussing the project, Anna 

Cain, Kensa Contracting Operation 

Director, said: “We’re thrilled to be 

working with Marshland Primary 

Academy. When complete, their new 

ground source heat pump heating 

system will provide the school, its 

teachers, and pupils with 100+ years 

of highly efficient, clean heating 

and hot water – all thanks to the 

renewable heat stored in the ground. 

“Thousands of Schools right 

across the UK will likely need to 

change their heating in the coming 

years, with the Government aiming 

to reduce public sector emissions by 

75%. Our ground source heat pump 

solution cuts those emissions and 

provides heating and hot water for 

the long term, giving any school 

that invests in the technology the 

reassurance they’ve secured their 

heating source for many years to 

come.” 

https://www.kensacontracting.com/ 



Bradford College receives £2.6m grant 

to help tackle climate change 

Bradford College has been 

awarded a £2.6 million grant 

for energy-efficiency works 

that will contribute to 

ambitious national net-zero targets. 

Delivered by Salix and run by the 

Department for Energy Security and 

Net Zero, the Phase 3c Public Sector 

Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) aims 

to slash energy bills and reduce 

carbon emissions. 

The Scheme targets public sector 

buildings that still use fossil fuels for 

heating, hot water, and catering. In 

total, more than £530 million of 

funding is being handed to schools, 

hospitals, fire stations, universities 

and other public buildings across the 

country to help tackle climate 

change. 

With a Bradford College 

contribution taking the funding 

total to over £3 million, the project 

will connect the David Hockney 

building and Advanced Technology 

Centre to the Bradford Energy 

Network by March 2026. Networks 

such as this produce heat on a large 

scale from the same source to 

buildings that are separated by 

miles. 

Bradford has one of the UK's 

largest Air Source Heat Pump 

installations. Buildings on the 

Bradford district heating network 

will benefit from an 85-90% 

reduction in emissions, contributing 

to a city-wide reduction in emissions 

of approximately 8,000 tonnes of 

carbon dioxide equivalent in the 

first phase of the network. 

Bradford College is one of 189 

public sector organisations 

nationwide that were awarded 

grants for heat decarbonisation and 

energy efficiency schemes. Work will 

also cover improvements to hot 

water distribution systems, pipework 

insulation, and emitter and 

substation upgrades. 

Pamela Sheldon, Head of Projects 

at Bradford College, said: 

“Bradford College is committed 

to reducing its carbon footprint. This 

latest funding will be a huge boost 

to our decarbonisation strategy. 

Over the last two years, Bradford 

College has secured nearly £32 

million in funding incorporating the 

PSDS grant. This substantial 

investment is helping us to rethink, 

reshape, rework, and rebuild 

aspirational new sustainable 

facilities in the heart of Bradford.” 

The Public Sector 

Decarbonisation Scheme was 

launched in 2020 and Phase 3 of 

Scheme was announced in 2021 to 

reduce fossil fuel usage and make 

public buildings more comfortable 

and efficient to heat. Phase 3c is the 

latest funding released by the 

Department for Energy Security to 

achieve net zero targets. 

Director of Programmes at Salix 

Ian Rodger said: 

“Climate crisis is one of the 

greatest challenges of our time and 

we are pleased to be working with 

Bradford College on reducing its 

carbon footprint. 

“Our teams will work closely with 

the college as they progress their 

decarbonisation journey, ensuring 

these buildings not only become 

more energy efficient but better 

places in which to work and study.” 

Alongside this grant, other 

upcoming Bradford College capital 

work includes improvement of the 

fabric of buildings for optimum 

thermal performance, the 

incorporation of high levels of 

natural daylight to reduce artificial 

light sources in new buildings, 

energy-efficient LED lighting and 

optimising lighting control, as well 

as adding social value by targeting 

local SME labour and supply chains. 

The PSDS grant comes as 

Bradford College was announced 

winner of the national Planet Earth 

Games - the biggest sustainability 

competition for the UK further 

education sector. Student and staff 

were encouraged to participate in 

various planet-friendly challenges to 

earn points for the College from tree 

planting and litter picking to green 

commuting. With over 3,000 good 

deeds for the planet undertaken 

since January, Bradford College 

topped the national leader board of 

FE colleges. 

Find out more about the latest 

Bradford College Capital Projects 

news: 

www.bradfordcollege.ac.uk/capitalp 

rojects 


AIR CONDITIONING 

We supply the most cost-effective remanufactured 

compressors throughout the transport industry 

By Trevor Dann, Thermagroup 

Many trains and train 

carriages use module 

type chillers; these 

incorporate air handling 

units and are run in hostile 

environments. With our experience 

in chiller design and environmental 

awareness, we are able to maintain 

and improve these chillers to their 

original design specification and 

beyond. 

REMOTE MONITORING 

Our compressors have built in test 

areas to provide us with high quality 

diagnostic abilities and allow direct 

feedback to resolve any issues. This 

data allows us to decide whether to 

maintain the whole chiller, improve 

the reliability and control or design 

and build a new improved chiller. 

AIR CONDITIONING SOLUTIONS 

FOR THE TRANSPORT INDUSTRY 

ThermaGroup is a renowned 

manufacturer and provider of air 

conditioning and refrigeration units, 

specialising in chillers and 

compressors. With our expertise, we 

supply, repair, and service all the 

leading makes of compressors, 

chillers, air-conditioning, and 

refrigeration units found throughout 

the HVAC industry. When it comes 

to transport air conditioning, we 

understand the unique needs of 

various industries that rely on 

efficient cooling systems. Let’s 

explore the type of work we do, who 

we do it for, and why our services 

are invaluable: 

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Efficient and reliable cooling is 

essential for railway systems, 

ensuring passenger comfort and 

maintaining optimal operating 

conditions. ThermaGroup specializes 

in designing and manufacturing 

railway chillers that meet the unique 

requirements of train air 

conditioning systems. Our railway 

chillers are engineered to deliver 

consistent cooling performance, 

withstand the vibrations and 

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and provide a comfortable journey 

for passengers. 

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CHILLERS: 

The transportation of perishable 

goods, especially food, requires 

precise temperature control to 

preserve freshness and ensure food 

safety. ThermaGroup understands 

the critical role of reliable 

refrigeration units in food 

transportation. Our specialized 

chillers for food transportation are 

designed to maintain consistent and 

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perishable goods from spoilage. With 

our food transportation chillers, you 

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ThermaGroup specialises in 

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ThermaGroup offers state-of-the-art 

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AWARDS 

Hull’s STEAM Studios wins two major awards 

The transformation of Hull’s 

former central fire station into 

a new creative studio for Ron 

Dearing University Technical 

College (UTC) has been recognised at 

a prestigious awards ceremony. 

The project by Sewell 

Construction to refurbish the disused 

fire station into a state-of-the-art 

sustainable learning space was the 

winner of the Regeneration and 

Retrofit category at the Constructing 

Excellence Yorkshire and Humber 

Awards. 

The project then went on to take 

home the overall ‘Best of the Best’ 

prize as the top winner out of all 

projects showcased on the night, 

being commended for its 

sympathetic yet sustainable 

conversion of the building into a 

modern education facility. 

The STEAM Studios are a 

dedicated centre for creativity, 

opened by Ron Dearing UTC in 

September 2023. The facility 

contains a gallery and exhibition 

space, 2D and 3D art studios, a 

photography studio and a sixth form 

independent study centre, as well as 

being used to educate engineering 

students about opportunities in 

green skills. 

The judges were impressed by the 

long-term view the refurbishment 

took towards the carbon footprint of 

the studio, ensuring the fabric of the 

building was upgraded so the site 

will use less energy to heat in future, 

helping the UTC on its journey to net 

zero. 

The STEAM Studios are also 

futureproofed for new innovations in 

green technology, with the building 

made connection-ready for the new 

Hull District Heating Network. 

The project is also being used to 

help the UTC’s students learn new 

skills, with Sewell Construction and 

Ron Dearing UTC now working in 

partnership to embed the STEAM 

Studios refurbishment into the 

curriculum so students can learn 

about how decarbonisation and the 

environment are integral to good 

construction practices. 

Chris Soper, Managing Director 

of Sewell Construction said: 

“The STEAM Studios project was 

fantastic to work on, as the team at 

the UTC were really receptive to our 

ideas about how to make the 

building as sustainable as possible. 

Instead of trying to chase quick wins, 

they were happy to work with us to 

look a bit differently at the 

refurbishment, enabling us to support 

their long term journey to net zero. 

It’s vital for the sustainability of our 

cities that we learn to work with 

existing buildings to breathe new life 

into them and make them more 

efficient, instead of simply knocking 

them down and building anew. 

“The STEAM Studios are now a 

fantastic new facility for the UTC, 

not only giving students a space to 

express their creativity, but also 

enabling students to learn from a 

real life case study about how 

careers in green skills can combine 

design, creativity and technical 

knowledge.” 

Sarah Pashley, Principal at Ron 

Dearing UTC said: 

“The STEAM Studios project has 

enabled Ron Dearing UTC to offer an 

additional 200 student places, which 

is fantastic. STEAM Studios provides 

a beautiful, purpose-designed 

facility for students studying our 

creative subjects and those studying 

Renewables modules on our 

Engineering qualifications. The 

design and build process was a 

wonderful opportunity for our 

students to learn about sustainable 

construction practices and we are 

very grateful to Sewell Construction 

for involving them in this process. 

We are also extremely grateful to 

Orsted for their sponsorship which 

provided the additional funding we 

needed to upgrade the fabric of the 

building to ensure its energy 

efficiency.“ 

The Sewell Construction team 

will now go on to the UK finals of 

the awards in November, where 

they’ll be hoping to repeat their 

success at a national level. 

Sewell Construction, who have 

their headquarters in Hull, deliver a 

range of construction projects across 

the Yorkshire and Humber region. 

Part of the larger Sewell Group, the 

company works on design, build, 

refurbishment and retrofit schemes, 

and recent projects have included 

the refurbishment of the Endeavour 

building for Hull Trinity House 

Academy, the creation of new T- 

Level facilities at Bradford College, 

the construction of West Hull health 

Hub and the refurbishment of The 

Edge fitness centre at the University 

of Leeds. 

Last year, the company became 

part employee-owned, with all staff 

becoming co-owners in the business, 

which gives them a greater say in 

how the business is run. 

www.sewell-construction.co.uk 

www.rondearingutc.com 


AWARDS 

Ibstock products feature in the most 

shortlisted projects for BDA Brick Awards 2024 

The prestigious annual Brick 

Development Association 

(BDA) Brick Awards is a ‘mustgo’ 

event in the construction 

calendar and Ibstock’s bricks feature 

in more than 40 of the project 

nominations for this year’s event – 

the most of any brick manufacturer. 

Organised by the BDA, the Brick 

Awards seek to shine a spotlight on 

some of the most innovative and 

dynamic uses of brick in 

contemporary architecture. The 2024 

awards will take place at the Royal 

Lancaster Hotel in London on 

November 6. 

Ibstock - the UK’s largest brick 

manufacturer – is delighted that its 

products have been used in so many 

inspiring buildings spanning such a 

diverse range of project types from 

housing developments of varying 

scales to commercial, public, 

education and refurbishment 

projects which have been shortlisted 

for this year’s ceremony. Indeed, 

Ibstock products were used in the 

most shortlisted projects among the 

widest number of award categories 

– highlighting the diversity of 

applications and developments 

Ibstock bricks are suitable for. 

Among the shortlisted projects 

include an outdoor amphitheatre 

near Tower Bridge, London; 

Greenock Ocean Terminal in 

Renfrewshire; the historic Elephant 

Tea Rooms in Sunderland, and phase 

two of a large housing development 

at Royal Eden Docks in Newham. 

John Lovatt, Head of Marketing 

Communications & Brand at Ibstock, 

commented: “We are delighted that 

our bricks have been featured within 

43 nominated projects across a 

varied range of schemes helping to 

enhance the aesthetic appeal of 

these buildings. The developments 

range from an individual housing 

development through to largescale 

urban regeneration projects, as well 

as standalone public buildings 

including schools, hospitals and 

universities. 

“As a leading manufacturer with 

over 200 years or heritage and 

experience, we have established a 

reputation for innovation and our 

wide-ranging brick products are 

manufactured in a large variety of 

colours, textures and shapes – 

meaning they can lend aesthetic 

appeal, alongside durability, to any 

project. What’s more, our technical 

experts can work with architects and 

builders to provide the ideal 

solution, ensuring the solutions they 

specify match the exact 

requirements of their brief. 

“We are especially proud to see 

our work with some of the UK’s 

leading housebuilders recognised. 

This year developments by Cala 

Homes, Redrow, Miller Homes and 

Taylor Wimpey, all of which feature 

Ibstock bricks as a primary facet of 

their properties, are nominated – a 

truly fantastic achievement. 

“We’re looking forward to the 

ceremony at the end of the year and 

highlighting each and every one of 

the shortlisted projects in due 

course.” 

For more information, visit: 

https://www.ibstock.co.uk/products/ 

bricks 


AWARDS 

Lilidorei Shortlisted for 

Three Construction Awards 

Since its opening 12 months 

ago, Lilidorei at The Alnwick 

Garden has attracted nearly 

200,000 visitors from across 

the UK and overseas. This month it 

has been revealed that the 

attraction has been shortlisted for a 

trio of construction awards since 

opening. 

Having already won the Judges 

Choice Award at the regional North 

East RICS (Royal Institute of 

Chartered Surveyors) Awards 2024, 

earlier this month, Lilidorei will 

progress to the prestigious national 

RICS UK Grand Final Awards. The 

winners will be announced at a 

ceremony in London in the autumn. 

The project also received a 

second nomination, for Building 

Project of the Year at the 

Constructing Excellence Awards for 

the North East in June. Additionally, 

the project received a third 

nomination for Best Project of the 

Year at the Royal Town Planning 

Institute (RTPI) Awards, with the 

awards ceremony taking place in 

late June. 

At 26-metres high, the timber 

play structure is the largest in the 

world, designed and constructed by 

playground specialists, Monstrum 

(Denmark). 

Charlie Aviston, senior quantity 

surveyor at AtkinsRealis, who 

supported The Alnwick Garden team 

throughout the project, said: “We 

joined the Lilidorei project from the 

outset, committed to delivering this 

unique initiative while overcoming 

many challenges along the way. Our 

dedication to the project ensured 

that we navigated various obstacles, 

ultimately achieving our goal of 

bringing this ambitious project to 

life. 

“The success of Lilidorei hinged 

on a unique team dynamic. The 

specialists involved not only 

exhibited technical excellence but 

also respected and supported each 

other’s roles, creating a culture of 

mutual assistance. 

“The final outcome is a fantastic 

family facility that will be enjoyed 

by many communities for years to 

come. We are incredibly proud of 

what the whole team achieved in 

realising the Duchess’ vision to 

create a sustainable and magical 

village that inspires children from all 

walks of life to play.” 

The £15.5m mythical play village 

was created with primary school 

children in mind by the Duchess of 

Northumberland to encourage them 

to play outside and use their 

imaginations to uncover the secrets 

of Lilidorei and the nine clans who 

reside there. 

Mark Brassell, chief executive of 

The Alnwick Garden said: “After 

many years of planning, Lilidorei 

started its transformative journey in 

2019, amidst the challenges posed 

by the pandemic, and opened its 

doors to the public in 2023. 

“The design of the play structure, 

Elfwin Drin, was ambitious and there 

was no blueprint for creating a 

unique experience like Lilidorei. 

Enlisting the expertise of our 

partners, including AtkinsRealis, 

helped us navigate the design and 

build phases, enabling the creation 

of this special and truly individual 

attraction. 

“We feel very proud to be 

nominated for these awards and it is 

a testament to the skill of our 

designers, management and 

construction teams. We are 

delighted to see they have all been 

recognised regionally and nationally 

for their talents through these 

awards.” 

Since opening its doors last May, 

Lilidorei has welcomed over 200,000 

visitors and 3,500 primary school 

children with its Free School Friday 

initiative. 

https://www.lilidoreialnwick.co.uk/ 


AWARDS 

Sensitive Victorian retrofit wins West Leigh 

Best Commercial Project at SWA Awards 2024 

London based, West Leigh has 

won the Best Commercial 

Project category at the Steel 

Window Association (SWA) 

Awards 2024 for its sensitive and 

painstaking work on the restoration 

of a former Victorian wallpaper 

factory in West London. 

Voysey House in Chiswick had 

previously been refurbished in the 

1980s with the work featuring the 

ever-popular W20 window, in the 

large pane format. All the 

architecturally important curved 

heads had been panelled to save 

money, severely detracting from the 

period styling of the property, which 

the client wanted to renovate as 

offices. Thankfully, West Leigh had 

both the experience of commercial 

refurbishments, and the logistical 

resources to rectify the 

shortcomings of the one-time 

industrial building and its imposing 

three-storey façades. 

Voysey House will now be reoccupied 

by one of the most 

renowned interiors brands 

worldwide who originally built the 

manufacturing facility extension in 

1902. 

Andy Bawn, Managing Director 

West Leigh, commented, “We 

initially offered a W20 section frame 

in small panes, which is a common 

product for this type of building but 

the client felt this was not 

sympathetic enough. We then 

realised we needed a more radical 

approach and instead, found a rarely 

used arrow section Series 200 

alternative, which is still rolled and 

mimics the appearance of the 

original cast iron frames. However, a 

regular heritage double-glazed unit 

would have been too large for the 

rebate. We therefore sourced a 

product that is new to the UK - the 

Fineo double-glazed unit - a vacuum 

technology that delivers a U-value 

of 0.7 W/m2K and a front to back 

dimension of just 8 mm; but more 

importantly the sight line is of only 

6mm. The combination of these two 

materials is ideal for period 

properties of this type and achieved 

a genuinely great finished result.” 

“We provided samples and design 

information, then quickly moved to 

manufacture in our London factory 

and in December 2023 we were very 

proud to deliver the finished product 

to our client. From the factory visits 

to discussions on site, the West 

Leigh team were totally clear and 

knowledgeable in what they were 

delivering. The finished product has 

helped transform the building.” 

West Leigh’s attention to detail 

and in-house skills were displayed in 

the fact its team designed new 

tooling to enable all of the end and 

crucifix notching to be achieved. 

This was employed in the company’s 

power presses to create uniform 

joint details. The largest windows 

produced for Voysey House were a 

trio measuring 4.5m wide by 3.7m 

high which, like the rest of the 

frames were hot zinc sprayed and 

then given a RAL6007 Bottle Green 

polyester coat finish. West Leigh’s 

own operatives carried out all of the 

installation work. 

The SWA Awards judge, 

Architecture Today’s Technical Editor, 

John Renshaw, said, “Completed in 

1902, Voysey House is the only 

commercial building designed by the 

celebrated modernist architect CFA 

Voysey. This project demonstrated 

what can be achieved when a 

committed client and a highly 

knowledgeable and experienced 

window manufacturer work 

together. The overall result is 

stunning, with West Leigh playing a 

crucial role in returning an 

architecturally significant building 

back to its original aesthetic, while 

providing modern levels of 

performance. From onsite 

discussions and factory visits to the 

provision of product samples and 

comprehensive design information, 

this SWA member has clearly gone 

above and beyond to find the right 

solution for this demanding and 

important project. Congratulations 

to all involved.” 

www.steel-windowassociation.co.uk 


“When we approach the design of the chiller we always 

consider the following; 

Clients Requirement 

Energy Efficient 

Concept Design + Scope 

Longevity 

Reliability 

We also take into account the way the chiller is going to last and 

mature over its running life time” 

Chief Designer

Enquiry Number 12 at www.modbs.co.uk/enquiries

LIGHTING 

Newport Railway bridge development brought 

to life by DW Windsor lighting solutions 

Anew pedestrian and cycle 

bridge has been built at 

Newport station in Wales, 

forming a vital crossing 

over the Great Western Mainline 

Railway. The bridge has been 

introduced to encourage active 

travel and improve connectivity for 

local residents and commuters. 

Designed by renowned 

architectural practice, Grimshaw, 

with additional engineering support 

from Arup, the 230m bridge is 

divided into several distinct parts, 

including two dark grey steel 

sections that span the railway lines 

plus stairs and a lightweight stepfree 

ramp on each side. The whole 

structure has been unified with 

continuous orange flooring to create 

a bold statement and a unique 

identity. 

Lighting was a key aspect of the 

bridge's construction, with a 

particular focus on safety, security, 

and accessibility. The design called 

for a discreet handrail solution to 

illuminate the floor deck while also 

supporting users with limited 

mobility. Additional lighting was also 

specified to enhance the 

surrounding public spaces. 

Leading M&E consultants, Vitec, 

were appointed to oversee the 

lighting and approached DW 

Windsor to fulfil key elements of the 

scheme's design. 

To satisfy the brief, DW Windsor 

supplied products from its awardwinning 

Garda® illuminated handrail 

range, adapted to suit the project's 

unique requirements. For the ramps 

and stairs, nearly 500m of seamless 

stainless-steel handrail was installed, 

fitted with 300mm Garda Classic 

asymmetric modules. Special 

attention was paid to how the 

handrail attached to the balustrade 

fins, which had pre-drilled holes, 

meaning a lot of coordination 

between all parties was needed to 

ensure everything fitted together on 

site without modification. 

For the main bridge deck, where 

handrail could not be used for safety 

reasons, an alternative approach was 

required. To overcome this challenge, 

DW Windsor developed a bespoke 

solution, integrating Garda LED 

modules directly into the two 

parapet structures slotted between 

the vertical ribs. Additional lighting 

was also supplied for the central 

section between these structures 

where, again, handrails could not be 

used. Here, the designers came up 

with an innovative solution to 

vertically mount recessed Ligman 

Lightalk luminaires between the 

balustrade fins. 

To achieve the required light 

levels, 3000K LED modules were 

spaced at approximately 2m across 

the whole structure. This provided a 

consistent appearance and ensured 

the scheme delivered an average 

maintained illuminance of 30 lux 

and a minimum uniformity of 0.5 to 

comply with British Standards. 

Discussing the installation, David 

Anstee, Technical Manager at DW 

Windsor, said, "This was a very large 

project, requiring a lot of 

coordination, particularly for the 

handrail, which had hundreds of 

touch points. Additionally, the power 

supplies needed to be in one 

location, meaning a lot of planning 

was needed to calculate circuit loads 

and voltage drop to ensure the 

lighting would operate as intended. 

This included planning all of the 

cable routing and ducting which had 

to be built into the bridge 

structure." 

In addition to the bridge 

lighting, the brief specified that 

lighting should be integrated into 

the hard landscaping beneath each 

ramp, which has been styled into 

amphitheatre-like areas. To support 

this, DW Windsor supplied sections 

of its Vaio linear system, which were 

recessed horizontally into the 

granite seating around the 

perimeter. This offered a point of 

focus for users while also providing 

low-level lighting to guide people 

into the space. Additional Ligman 

uplighters were also installed into 

the planters to illuminate the ramp 

soffits and vertical supports, 

enhancing the general ambience of 

the space while having minimal 

impact on the surrounding areas. 

Shaun Davies, Project Engineer at 

Vitec, commented, “The Newport 

Station bridge provides residents and 

visitors to the area with a safer, 

more accessible link over the 

mainline railway. With its distinctive 

design and discreet lighting scheme, 

the new bridge has helped to 

transform a neglected area into a 

vibrant public space.” 

www.dwwindsor.com 


Best practice for internal wall insulation 

Internal wall insulation (IWI) 

offers a potential solution for 

reducing energy demand for 

some solid walled homes. To 

avoid unintended consequences, 

however, it is essential that work is 

carefully tailored for the specific 

project. 

INSULATION 

HANDLING MOISTURE 

IWI installations will impact how a 

building handles the moisture which 

enters constructions from 

external/internal sources. If not 

properly addressed, this can increase 

interstitial condensation risk leading 

to damp and potential structural 

damage. It is therefore essential to 

understand the moisture properties 

of the existing building before 

undertaking work. 

Many solid walled properties 

feature permeable wall 

constructions which allow moisture 

to pass slowly through. However, not 

all solid walls are permeable, and 

some may have been altered to 

become much less so. As heat is 

retained more effectively once IWI is 

fitted, outer constructions remain 

colder – potentially increasing 

moisture risk. 

IWI APPROACHES 

Two approaches can be adopted to 

upgrade the thermal performance of 

a wall using IWI: 

• ‘vapour open’ — using permeable 

materials that can buffer moisture 

(although this buffering capacity is 

limited beyond a certain point); and 

• ‘vapour closed’ — using moisture 

closed materials, such as phenolic 

insulated plasterboard. The outer 

construction should be made 

suitably resistant to the relevant 

level of driving rain and a 

continuous vapour control layer 

(VCL) fitted on the warm side of the 

insulation. This helps to limit any 

interstitial condensation which may 

form to a safe level. 

In either case, an appropriate 

condensation risk assessment is 

needed in accordance with BS 5250. 

In addition, steps should be taken to 

ensure adequate ventilation is 

provided (which may not be the case 

for the building pre-improvement), 

any issues or defects addressed, any 

problems with rainwater goods and 

external drainage/ground conditions 

resolved and the system to be 

installed needs appropriate detailing 

to avoid issues of internal surface 

condensation and mould growth. 

Ultimately, the most appropriate 

solution will depend on building 

specific factors including location, 

construction, condition, ventilation, 

moisture load and level of heating. 

For this reason, the pre-planning 

Careful detailing at junctions and around openings is essential when fitting moisture closed IWI to ensure a continuous 

VCL and insulation. 

work needs to include a proper 

assessment of the full building. This 

should be completed under PAS 

2035:2023 for domestic work or PAS 

2038:2021 for commercial. 

These specifications set out a 

clear process for assessing properties 

and developing tailored 

improvement plans. In all cases, this 

includes a full survey of the building 

characteristics and any defects. 

Where an IWI system is being 

considered, additional assessments 

must be carried out to consider 

moisture risk and ventilation. 

Installers looking to carry out 

work under PAS 2035 or PAS 2038 

will need to be accredited under PAS 

2030. This sets out their 

responsibilities during IWI 

installations, including ensuring the 

insulation is correctly installed (with 

particular attention to junction 

details) and that post-completion 

ventilation rates are no worse than 

prior to the works. 

A WHOLE HOUSE APPROACH 

Properly considered IWI installations 

can notably reduce the energy 

demand and operating cost of solid 

walled homes. By adopting a whole 

house approach which carefully 

considers the building, it should be 

possible to identify where IWI is 

appropriate and the best approach 

to take. 

www.kingspaninsulation.co.uk 

Kingspan Kooltherm K118 Insulated Plasterboard features an integral VCL and has a thermal conductivity 

of just 0.019 W/mK. 


APPOINTMENTS 

Torsion Construction announces 

senior appointments 

Left to right: Priesh Soni, Richard Potts, Ed Wootton 

Torsion Construction, part of 

Leeds-based construction and 

property business Torsion 

Group, under the leadership of 

Ed Wootton, has announced two 

new senior appointments. 

It follows a record number of 

new project appointments for 

Torsion during the last few months. 

Torsion is on track to deliver its 

strategic growth plans implemented 

with Ed’s appointment as Managing 

Director in 2023. Torsion has 

experienced significant growth, 

which has seen It become a broader 

business in terms of geographic 

spread (expanding operations in the 

Northwest), strengthen its market 

presence in core market sectors 

(PBSA, Senior Living, Homes and 

Residential), and increased the 

average size of projects to £54m. 

To support the business 

expansion, business improvements 

and insure continued strong delivery 

of the secured schemes, Richard 

Potts and Priesh Soni have been 

appointed as new Regional Directors 

for North and Midlands, respectively. 

Richard joins Torsion 

Construction with over 30 years of 

industry experience, having served 

most recently as an Area Director 

with Morgan Sindall Construction. 

He has a proven track record of 

delivering projects in the residential, 

commercial, leisure, health, 

education and blue light sectors. As 

Regional Director for the North, this 

will be highly relevant to the 

business during these next periods 

of growth. 

Priesh has worked at Torsion 

Construction as a Commercial 

Manager and a Commercial Director, 

where he has significantly 

contributed to the success of many 

projects. As Regional Director for the 

Midlands Region, Priesh will be 

instrumental in driving growth and 

success through strong delivery and 

client satisfaction. He brings over 15 

years of experience and expertise in 

project management, business 

development, leadership, and 

strategic planning. 

Dan Spencer, CEO of Torsion 

Group, said: “The successful 

implementation of our business 

improvement plans under Ed’s 

Leadership has allowed us to focus 

on securing a record order book in 

line with continued business growth. 

I am delighted to support our 

construction business moving to a 

regional delivery model, and the 

appointments of Priesh and Richard 

are another step towards our longterm 

vision for the Torsion Group of 

companies.” 

Dan added: “With a construction 

career spanning over 35 years, Ed 

has brought the business refreshed 

energy, clear direction and strong 

leadership.” 

Ed Wootton, Managing Director 

at Torsion Construction, said: “We 

are delighted to welcome Richard 

and Priesh to their new roles as 

Regional Director. Their wealth of 

experience, combined with their 

deep understanding of the industry, 

will be invaluable to our company as 

we continue to drive business 

growth and exceptional value to our 

clients.” 

Torsion Construction is a focused 

and progressive construction 

business dedicated to finding better 

solutions for clients. Its innovative 

approach to project delivery is 

centred around ‘design to budget’, 

which focuses on safety, efficiency, 

and sustainability working within 

the client's original budgetary 

expectations. 

In 2023 Torsion Group was listed 

in The Times (Sunday Times) Best 

Places to Work, Large Business of 

the Year at the Yorkshire Post 

Excellence in Business Awards, and 

Developer of the Year at the 

Property Week Student 

Accommodation Awards. 

Find out more about Torsion Group 

at: www.torsiongroup.co.uk 

Find out more about Torsion 

Construction at: 

https://www.torsionconstruction.co. 

uk/ 


PROJECTS 

West 

Fraser 

launches 

a guide 

for 

architects 

Tried and trusted by architects 

for over 50 years, West 

Fraser’s OSB, particleboard and 

MDF engineered wood panels 

take pride of place in so many 

buildings today. All are net carbon 

negative, come with all the 

necessary accreditations and safety 

marks, and are made in the UK. 

A new guide details all the 

information an architect or specifier 

needs when considering the very 

best panel selection. Specifying 

precise products means there’s less 

margin for error; when drawing up 

contract documents drawings should 

include the product manufacturer, 

product name and grade to avoid 

contractors subbing in products that 

they ‘think’ will do the job. Leaving 

such important decisions to supply 

teams and contractors can not only 

affect the sustainability and carbon 

footprint of a project, but also 

fundamentals such as the structural 

integrity of the build. Not all 

products are equal. Cheap imports 

from Eastern Europe, China and 

South America may be appealing to 

contractors but cutting corners 

comes at a price. 

All West Fraser panel products 

manufactured in the UK are net 

carbon negative and manufactured 

in mills that have obtained the 

coveted environmental ISO 14001 

accreditation. Responsibly sourced, 

the panels are FSC-certified 

(CO12533) and created from locally 

grown timber, cutting embodied 

carbon from transportation. 

To find out more about West 

Fraser’s support for architects and to 

access useful downloads, visit the 

architects’ page at: 

https://uk.westfraser.com/resources 

/architect-support/ 

For further information, 

call 01786 812 921or visit 

https://uk.westfraser.com/ 


PROJECTS 

Reviving History – 

A Victorian renovation adventure in Highbury 

Nestled in the vibrant heart 

of Highbury, North London, 

lies Aberdeen Road – a 

street where time seems to 

pause, allowing the echoes of 

Victorian grandeur to linger in the 

air. Amongst these historic relics, one 

house stands on the brink of a 

remarkable transformation. This is the 

home of Katy and Clive, a dynamic 

duo driven by their shared passion 

for property and design, ready to 

breathe new life into a tired Victorian 

beauty. 

Katy Ayling, an alumna of the 

prestigious Chelsea College of Art, 

runs her own interior design agency. 

Her impeccable taste and keen eye 

for style have earned her a 

reputation for creating spaces that 

effortlessly blend form and function. 

Meanwhile, Clive, the 

entrepreneurial force behind Love 

London Apartments, a boutique 

lettings agency found a project they 

can both get behind. 

This journey into the world of 

property development began during 

the quiet, introspective days of the 

COVID-19 lockdown. Confined to 

their home, Katy and Clive found 

solace in daydreams of new projects 

and untapped potential. It was 

during one of these moments of 

reflection that they stumbled upon a 

large Victorian property on Aberdeen 

Road, a victorian maisonette 

brimming with possibilities yet in 

desperate need of a revival. 

The upper maisonette, boasting 

1,000 square feet of space and two 

terraces (including a rooftop with 

breathtaking views of the city 

skyline), was a diamond in the 

rough. Its grandeur had faded over 

time, leaving it weary and outdated. 

But where others saw decay, Katy 

and Clive saw a canvas. They 

envisioned a modern masterpiece 

that would honour the home’s 

storied past while injecting it with 

contemporary flair. 

Their ambitious plan involves 

reordering the property’s internal 

layout, a bold move that will see the 

kitchen and living area relocated to 

the top floor, taking full advantage 

of the stunning skyline views. This 

reconfiguration not only maximises 

the aesthetic appeal but also 

enhances the functionality of the 

space, creating a living area that is 

as inspiring as it is practical. 

Additionally, Katy and Clive aim 

to add both an extra bathroom and 

a bedroom, ensuring that the house 

is not only beautiful but also 

accommodating for modern families 

and young professionals. 

Katy’s design philosophy centres 

around a harmonious blend of the 

contemporary and the traditional. 

For this project, she has set her 

sights on high-quality materials and 

bespoke furnishings that will bring 

her vision to life. 

Imagine sleek, modern fixtures 

juxtaposed with ornate Victorian 

mouldings; luxurious, state-of-theart 

appliances set against the 

backdrop of exposed brick walls that 

whisper tales of yesteryear. 

Every element of this renovation 

is meticulously planned, from the 

grand, open- plan kitchen with its 

polished countertops and cuttingedge 

appliances to the cozy yet 

elegant living area, complete with 

large modern sash windows and 

patio doors that flood the space 

with natural light. The additional 

bedroom will offer a serene retreat, 

featuring carefully selected 

furnishings that promise comfort 

and style and the ever important 

practical storage. 

The extra bathroom, a sanctuary 

of relaxation, will boast a blend of 

traditional charm and modern 

luxury. Each room in the house will 

reflect Katy’s ability to merge the 

old with the new, creating a space 

that feels both timeless and fresh. 

Gain an inside look at Katy and 

Clive’s transformation of their 

Victorian home as we follow their 

journey in Project Spotlight. 

Whether you’re a seasoned property 

enthusiast or a fan of 

transformation stories, follow their 

journey in Refurb Projects. 


ASWS flies to the rescue for a 

leading Scottish Hotel 

PROJECTS 

The conversion of a former 

warehouse property in the 

heart of Glasgow into a 

leading hotel required the 

speedy intervention of a steel door 

specialist, with London-based 

Associated Steel Window Services 

(ASWS) subsequently flying one of 

its teams up to Prestwick to carry 

out the required work. 

The building’s imposing red 

sandstone frontage is dominated by 

a trio of arched headed openings, 

which were to be a key feature of 

the refurbished element to a much 

larger and very stylish new 

destination on the famous Clyde 

Street. Unfortunately, despite the 

city’s association with shipbuilding 

and engineering generally, the main 

contractor could not identify a 

company North of the border, 

capable of meeting the technical 

and time demands of the project. 

The Contract Director for ASWS, 

Kris Bennell, commented, “The 

creation of this landmark hotel 

involved the construction of a new 

building alongside the refurbishment 

and conversion of the original stone 

structure with which we became 

involved. These were very large and 

extremely heavy steel doors and 

fixed lights which required a lot of 

work – and though the client could 

probably have replaced them with 

alternatives, they wanted to stay 

faithful to the heritage of the 

building and its architectural style.” 

“After I originally flew up to 

Glasgow, as a specialist contractor 

could not be found locally, and our 

tender was accepted, we sent a 

whole team up there on the plane 

while two other operatives drove 

vans up with all the necessary 

equipment. The three doors, frames 

and subframes were then 

demounted and prepped ready to be 

transported back to our London 

premises so restoration could be 

carried out.” 

This process with the frames 

being deglazed and then grit-blasted 

back to bare metal, ready for repairs, 

involved some replacement of 

heavily corroded sections. The 

bottom rails had been almost 

completely eaten away through 

resting on the stone paving without 

any weathering detail. Some of the 

corroded T-bars were also replaced 

using stock sections. 

An anomaly to the original 

design or installation was the 

presence of a substantial, but 

intrusive and badly deteriorated, 

Kris Bennell, Director for ASWS. 

timber subframe to all of the three 

frames, which the project team 

wanted to have substituted by a 

tubular section insulated aluminium 

frame; in order to create a thermal 

as well as visual uplift. Designed inhouse 

by ASWS engineers, this was 

made up in several straight and 

templated curved sections which 

were bolted together on site and set 

back into the stone reveal for the 

doorframe to be fixed to. 

Kris Bennell continued, “The 

centre double door had originally 

featured a central ‘slamming bar’. 

However, in order to facilitate the 

double doors being converted to two 

individual entrance doors the 

slamming bar had been cut out 

disposed of and the doors inverted 

at some time. As the doors required 

rehanging as one double door we 

ended up having a complete new 

sub-frame fabricated and fitted and 

the repaired original opening leaves 

were rehung into it. Primed in the 

workshops, the three assemblies 

were finished in-situ while the main 

door was fitted with new 

ironmongery and an electronic 

closing mechanism. Despite this just 

involving three openings, due to the 

condition and the logistics of the 

location for us, it turned out to be a 

demanding contract.” 

The original 10mm plate glass 

was replaced by a similar thickness 

of toughened glass to protect 

building users, while new solid steel 

beading was mitred, drilled and 

taped for its retention. In addition, 

the solid steel bead had to be cut 

and curved to match the shape of 

the main semi headed frame. 

ASWS is a long-established 

member of the Steel Window 

Association and well recognised 

expert in the repair of metal 

windows, from the earliest wrought 

iron examples through to 

contemporary curtain walling. The 

family run business is frequently 

called upon to prepare condition 

surveys during the appraisal stages 

of a project, which then become 

part of the planning or listed 

building permission process. The 

company also maintains a very large 

stock of ironmongery and metal 

frame components to assist in its 

restoration work. 

www.asws.co.uk. 


PROJECTS 

Aruba: A trusted ceiling tile for generations 

Trusted by generations of 

architects and installers, Aruba 

is specified throughout the UK 

almost every single day. With 

impressive sound properties, and a 

range of colours available it is an 

incredibly versatile range that can be 

found everywhere from hotels and 

offices to classrooms and retail 

environments. 

The range has been named after 

the white sandy beaches of the 

Caribbean due to the finely sanded 

finish of the tile’s surface. The Aruba 

tile also reflects the vibrancy and 

colourful nature of the Caribbean, as 

it is available in 35 colours, the 

largest option of standard colours 

available on the UK market. For 

further design creativity, the Aruba 

family can be specified in alternative 

shapes such as the Aruba Triangle. 

Additional tiles with enhanced 

performances are available within 

the Aruba family including Aruba 

hH, Aruba Max and Aruba dB, each 

bringing unique performance 

capabilities. 

ARUBA 

The Aruba tile is incredibly versatile, 

with a number of attributes that 

deliver a thorough solution. 

Combining Class C sound absorption 

with a sound attenuation level of 

34dB, the tile controls background 

noise levels whilst allowing sound to 

travel, creating an acoustically 

comfortable setting. It contains up 

to 44% recycled content, is 100% 

recyclable and is scratch resistant. 

Recently specified for an 

industrial site in one of the UK’s 

most important manufacturing 

areas, the coloured Aruba tile was 

able to meet the aesthetic, 

functional and acoustic 

requirements set out for the project. 

Ceiling installer, Barry Deane, 

Director at East Midlands Ceilings 

commented on the Aruba family: 

“It’s always exciting when the 

customer wants a change from the 

standard types of suspended ceiling 

designs. It made the project 

extremely interesting to be involved 

with, and the Aruba coloured tiles 

look amazing, giving a modern and 

visual twist over the standard install. 

The quality of the materials was also 

fantastic, with everything being 

manufactured and delivered to suit 

the project requirements perfectly.” 

ARUBA HH 

The Aruba hH tile offers enhanced 

high humidity resistance, making it 

ideal for areas such as changing 

rooms. It also has the same acoustic 

qualities as the Aruba tile; but can 

remain stable in conditions of up to 

99% Relative Humidity (RH). 

ARUBA MAX 

The Aruba Max is a more robust 

variation of the standard Aruba tile, 

designed for interiors that require a 

higher technical performance. With 

an increased tile thickness, it offers 

higher sound attenuation levels of 

35dB, and is perfect for settings 

such as classrooms where sound still 

has to travel but in a controlled 

manner. 

ARUBA DB 

For internal settings that require 

extra levels of privacy such as 

meeting rooms and small offices, the 

Aruba dB tile offers the highest 

sound absorption rating at 39dB and 

reduces sound transmission through 

the ceiling void. 

https://www.zentia.com/en-gb/ 


PROJECTS 

Style adds sustainable flexibility to 

Aviva Seminar Space 

Working with architect, T 

P Bennett and 

contractor, Overbury, 

moveable wall specialist 

Style was recently specified to create 

flexible seminar space on floor 1 of 

Aviva’s new London head offices in 

Fenchurch Street. 

A single Dorma Huppe Variflex 

ComforTronic, semi-automatic 

moveable wall, boasting an 

outstanding 59dB acoustic 

performance, separates the seminar 

area from the catering and breakout 

zone. A second Variflex system 

allows the space to be further subdivided 

into two smaller rooms. 

Both walls are finished in a chic 

Kvadrat Encircle fabric, one grey and 

the other a deep green, perfectly 

complementing the interior décor. 

Aligning with Aviva’s 

commitment to achieve Net Zero by 

2040, the Variflex system has an EPD 

(Environmental Product Declaration) 

in accordance with ISO 14025 and 

EN 15804. This certification provides 

transparent and verified information 

about the environmental impact of 

the product across its lifecycle. 

Aviva’s new head office is spread 

over multiple floors, providing 

modern and spacious working areas 

that aim to facilitate collaboration 

and innovation amongst the 1,500 

employees that work there. 

“This is a very sophisticated 

seminar area,” said Michael Porter, 

Style’s group managing director, 

“and thanks to the ease of 

manoeuvrability and high-end 

acoustic ratings of the two Dorma 

Huppe Variflex moveable walls, it 

can be quickly transformed to cater 

for one large, or two small, seminars. 

“Once the seminars are over, the 

room can also be fully opened up 

into a vast open plan area for 

catering and networking, making 

this an exceptional solution for 

Aviva whose requirements can 

change daily.” 

Style is the exclusive UK partner 

to Dorma Huppe, offering a wide 

range of manual, semi-automatic 

and fully automated moveable walls. 

Further attesting to the 

sustainability of the installation, 

Style is accredited under the ISO 

14001:2004 Environmental 

Management System. This 

certification ensures that the 

company adheres to practices that 

maximize sustainability and 

minimize waste throughout their 

operational processes. 

www.style-partitions.co.uk 


PROJECTS 

Invisible Door Automation Opens Historic 

Oxford College Entrance 

The Grade II listed dining hall 

at Pembroke College, Oxford 

University has undergone a 

significant upgrade. Architects 

Walters & Cohen, in collaboration 

with Glasstec, has addressed the 

issue of draughts from the hall’s 

heavy timber doors by installing an 

elegant yet highly functional, selfopening 

glazed entrance door. 

This creative solution 

incorporates a TORMAX iMotion 

1401 concealed door drive, providing 

invisible automation for the swing 

door. The result is a warm, draughtfree 

environment that enhances 

thermal comfort and energy 

efficiency without compromising the 

hall’s historic charm. 

The new entrance door is a 

testament to the seamless 

integration of modern technology 

within a historic setting. The 

TORMAX iMotion 1401, located 

discreetly in a steel casing beneath 

the door, ensures that the aesthetic 

integrity of the Victorian stonework 

remains intact. 

"We are delighted with the 

successful installation of the new 

entrance door, which cleverly 

balances functionality and heritage 

conservation," said Vanessa Gouws, 

Operations Bursar of Pembroke 

College. "This intervention has 

helped improve the energy 

efficiency of the dining hall, the 

second biggest fuel consumer in 

Pembroke’s estate, not to mention 

helping keep diners and dinners 

warm." 

TORMAX is a global leader in 

door automation systems, renowned 

for their innovative designs and 

commitment to quality. 

Designed in-house at the 

TORMAX headquarters in 

Switzerland, the iMotion range of 

automatic door operators 

incorporate a motor with none of 

the elements that generally wear 

out, such as gears and brushes. This 

ensures exceptional longevity and 

demands only minimal ongoing 

maintenance, making it entirely 

feasible to situate the drive in a 

concealed location. 

“In addition to the iMotion 1401 

underfloor door drive, we offer the 

iMotion 1302.KI which is concealed 

within the door lintel,” comments 

Simon Roberts, MD for TORMAX UK. 

“Together, these options can deliver 

practical access solutions for almost 

any location where the traditional 

appearance of an entrance must be 

preserved.” 

www.tormax.co.uk 


PROJECTS 

Tsurumi Tree Planting Project Update 

Tsurumi Pumps UK are on track 

to achieve their target of 

planting in excess of 10,000 

trees in the UK and overseas, 

as part of the ‘Tsurumi Tree Planting 

Project’ which was implemented at 

the start of this year. 

They have pledged to plant a 

tree for every Tsurumi brand pump 

sold in 2024 to continue to 

contribute to their journey to net 

zero whilst supporting customers 

and Tsurumi pump users with their 

own nature and biodiversity 

strategies. 

After calculating their figures, 

the total has amounted to an 

impressive 5,812 trees that had been 

ordered or planted by the end of 

June. 

The planting of trees not only 

removes the equivalent of 4,641 

tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere 

but also has created 58 working 

days for tree planters in the UK and 

overseas. 

Tsurumi Pumps UK has partnered 

with Carma, a B Corp-certified 

company that will carry out the 

tree-planting project across a range 

of locations in the UK and Kenya. 

Trees planted in the UK are 

planted by armed force veterans via 

The Green Task Force, a charity 

established to take action on issues 

surrounding the environment, whilst 

also assisting veterans back into 

employment. 

6% of serving and former 

serving personnel, and 17% of those 

that have been in a combat 

situation, are suffering from some 

form of Post-Traumatic Stress 

Disorder (PTSD). It has been proven 

that getting veterans involved in 

Nature-Based Therapy (NBT) has a 

positive effect on their mental 

health. 

Trees planted overseas assist in 

providing work for those in areas 

where a large percentage of the 

population lives below the poverty 

line. 

One of the projects that Tsurumi 

have been able to contribute 

towards is the planting of 

mangroves in Mteza Creek Kenya, 

which will provide fishing grounds 

and additional income streams for 

the local communities, where 62% 

live below the poverty line. 

In addition, the mangroves will 

provide nutrition and sustainable 

harvests, whilst stabilising the 

coastlines as a vital defence during 

tropical storms. 

A live status report is available 

on their website, to keep up to date 

with the continued development of 

their tree-planting efforts as we 

progress into the second half of the 

year. 

www.tsurumi.co.uk 

Photograph courtesy of Carma 

Earth: Trees being planted in the UK 


PROJECTS 

Shoreline marks the first phase of a 

Folkestone beachside regeneration 

Occupying a prominent 

position on the Folkestone 

beachfront, Shoreline is a 

contemporary take on the 

traditional Edwardian curved terrace 

and the first phase of an impressive 

masterplan. Constructed by Jenner 

and designed by ACME architectural 

practice for the Folkestone Harbour 

& Seafront Development Company, 

the impressive residential building is 

the first step in creating a vibrant 

new community along the historic 

seafront. 

Forming part of ACME’s 2016 

Folkestone Harbour and Seafront 

masterplan, Shoreline it is the first 

phase of a landmark project that 

will provide up to 1,000 new homes, 

shops, bars and restaurants as well 

as attractive public and green 

spaces, including Leas Square and 

Marine Parade along the seafront in 

Folkestone. 

Located at the foot of the Grade 

II listed Leas Lift, one of the oldest 

water lifts in the UK and on the 

edge of Lower Leas Coastal Park, 

Shoreline is surrounded by heritage 

and nature. 

The schemes 84 luxury homes 

benefit from a prime position with 

uninterrupted views onto the beach 

and across the sea, stretching as far 

as the French coastline on a clear 

day. 

Overcoming a multitude of 

challenges along the way, this 

incredibly beautiful, unique building 

sits upon robust foundations of over 

200 piles, driven to a depth of 27 

metres making the foundations as 

deep as the building is high. 

Constructed with a reinforced 

concrete frame, Shoreline’s flowing 

curved form echoes the shape of the 

waves, pebbles and coast. 

Built to endure the everchanging 

weather patterns 

experienced on the UK’s coastline, 

every detail of Shoreline has been 

meticulously considered. The 

facade’s white glazed bricks, sourced 

from La Paloma in Spain, reflects 

the changing colours of the sea and 

sky according to the weather and 

the time of day. ‘Standardised’ was 

never going to be an option and as 

such over 24 different specially 

designed bricks were required to 

achieve the complex geometry. 

Metal used on the exterior of the 

building is rust-proof, whilst wall 

ties beneath the facade are made 

from the same marine grade 

materials found on deep sea oil rigs, 

ensuring longevity and 

sustainability. 

With the design of the balconies 

proving problematic in terms of 

their load bearing weight, engineers 

implemented lighter-weight 

aluminium support systems that 

seamlessly integrated into the 

building's curved design. There were 

also five different balcony designs 

each bespoke to mirror the shape 

and curve of the structure. The 

coping stones on the parapet walls 

were individual in size and shape 

requiring special moulds. The curved 

structure also demanded bespoke 

windowsills; each unit scanned as a 

3D image. 

The bespoke finish is most 

certainly not limited to what the 

public eye can see with communal 

areas clad with acoustic walls and 


PROJECTS 

terrazzo floors to ensure quality 

radiates throughout. 

Private roof terraces are included 

for the beach houses and penthouse 

apartments and all units have the 

exclusive use of a private communal 

garden above the under-croft car 

park that promotes natural daylight 

through carefully placed openings to 

provide a secure and pleasant 

environment with EV charging 

points and sufficient headroom for 

all modern vehicles. 

Other sustainable features 

include shingle gardens that provide 

an ecological habitat, increasing 

species diversity within the beach, 

rainwater harvesting and communal 

heating. Storage units and cycle 

parking are provided within the car 

park to encourage bike use, there is 

LED lighting throughout the 

apartments and common areas and 

a communal boiler provides efficient 

heating for the apartments. 

Martin Sandall, Managing 

Director, Jenner: “As a Folkestone 

based main contractor, we are 

delighted to have been able to 

deliver the initial phase of the 

transformative Folkstone seafront 

development. Shoreline Crescent is a 

truly spectacular interpretation of 

an English seaside crescent-shaped 

apartment building. Whilst its 

coastal location presented a number 

of construction challenges, from 

ground engineering through to the 

selection and installation of 

materials, the exceptional quality of 

the finished building stands as 

testament to the remarkable work of 

the entire project team.” 

From initial concept through to 

articulation of its architecture by 

utilising state-of-the art 

construction techniques and 

products of the highest 

specification, the project serves as a 

prime example of how the built 

form positively impacts upon a 

region. 

Shoreline is a short walk to 

Folkestone Central Station, which 

provides direct trains to central 

London in under an hour, whilst the 

Eurotunnel station at Folkestone 

connects directly to Calais. Gatwick 

Airport and is just over an hour 

away by car, with London City 

Airport one hour and 30 minutes 

away. 

The boardwalk easily connects 

residents to the Harbour Arm, which 

has quickly become the Kent Coast’s 

leading food and beverage 

destination, and provides access to a 

thriving waterside community 

attracting many artistic industries 

with the town’s Creative Quarter 

providing an urban village of 

designers, filmmakers, musicians, 

web developers and artists amongst 

the 90 or so restored buildings. 

Folkestone was recently voted as one 

of the best places to live in the UK 

due to its thriving arts community 

and public spaces, such as the 

refurbished train station, viaduct 

and Fountain Square, as well as 

high-achieving schools and its 

proximity to both London and the 

Eurotunnel. 

For further information on 

Shoreline contact 

Tel: 01303 760 940 or visit 

www.shorelinefolkestone.co.uk 


PROJECTS 

G F Tomlinson and Henry Brothers share vision 

for the future of Castle Meadow Campus 

Asuccessful event at Castle 

Meadow Campus hosted by 

G F Tomlinson and Henry 

Brothers Construction 

provided an opportunity for Fbe and 

ProCon members and guests to look 

at the new University of Nottingham 

city centre redevelopment site. 

The collaborative event was held 

at the Grade II Listed site where 

current works include the 

transformation of the former HMRC 

headquarters - the Central Building 

being delivered by G F Tomlinson, 

and the remodelling of Buildings D 

and F, by Henry Brothers, into 

modern office spaces. 

Encompassing seven buildings, 

the complete redevelopment is set 

to establish the Castle Meadow 

Campus as a vibrant hub for 

innovation and entrepreneurship, 

featuring state-of-the-art facilities 

for its community of students, 

academics, and industry partners. 

60 members of the Fbe (Forum 

for the Built Environment) East 

Midlands and ProCon 

Nottinghamshire – both of which 

are professional regional 

construction and property groups – 

attended the event, and were 

treated to a morning of insightful 

presentations, networking 

opportunities and firsthand 

experiences of the ongoing 

redevelopment works. 

While enjoying breakfast 

sandwiches and hot refreshments, 

representatives from the University 

of Nottingham, Arup, and Bond 

Bryan provided detailed site plans, 

offering a comprehensive overview 

of the campus scope and objectives. 

Visitors were given guided tours 

of the current works by G F 

Tomlinson and Henry Brothers, 

providing a unique insight into the 

intricate renovation processes. A 

highlight of the event was the 

demonstration of the large-scale 

Projection Augmented Relief Model 

(PARM) by Dr. Gary Priestnall from 

the University’s School of 

Geography. The interactive 3D model 

of Nottingham city centre 

showcased the innovative use of 

digital and data tools in urban 

planning and development. 

Led by Director, Prof. Paul 

Grainge, University of Nottingham, 

‘City as Lab’ also presented work on 

leveraging digital and data 

innovation to address real-world 

challenges in the Nottingham city 

region, emphasising the role of the 

campus as a catalyst for 

technological advancement and 

community engagement. 

G F Tomlinson, a longstanding 

partner of the University of 

Nottingham, is leading the 

refurbishment of the Central 

Building, including the complex 

replacement of the tensile fabric 

roof and the addition of a new 

mezzanine level, designed to 

enhance the building's functionality 

and sustainability. 

Adrian Grocock, Managing 

Director of G F Tomlinson, said: "The 

event at Castle Meadow Campus was 

a fantastic opportunity to showcase 

the extensive work being done to 

transform the Central Building. 

“We were delighted to share our 

progress with the community and 

our industry peers and we are 

extremely proud to contribute our 

expertise to such a landmark project. 

“We have a long-standing 

working relationship with the 

University of Nottingham, with this 

being our 8th scheme working 

together. It is a real pleasure to 

combine our university and heritage 

experience to help the university to 

deliver another world class facility.” 

Henry Brothers Construction, 

alongside a consortium of leading 

industry experts, is nearing 

completion of the remodelling works 

on Buildings D and F. Managing 

Director of Nottingham-based Henry 

Brothers Construction Ian Taylor 

said: “The Castle Meadow Campus is 

a hugely exciting project for the 

University of Nottingham and for 

the city as a whole and we are 

proud to be playing a part in it. 

“Henry Brothers has extensive 

experience of working with 

universities across the Midlands to 

improve their facilities. This is our 

first contract with the University of 

Nottingham, and we are really 

pleased to see the partnership 

creating such fantastic new facilities 

in our home city. They will be a 

tremendous asset to the community, 

and we are honoured to have jointly 

hosted this event for our peers in 

the local construction and property 

sector.” 

James Hale, Building and Design 

Lead for Castle Meadow Campus, 

University of Nottingham, said: 

“We’re pleased to be working 

together with our partners on the 

Castle Meadow Campus 

development. The chance to 

welcome ProCon and Fbe members 

and guests to showcase the great 

work that’s already happening to 

transform the site was excellent. 

“We’re pleased that members and 

guests showed a keen interest in this 

historically significant site. With 

more work to come, we are 

determined to create an accessible 

and sustainable world-class campus 

environment.” 

The event underscored the 

importance of fostering partnerships 

in technological advancement and 

sustainable development. With the 

University of Nottingham, G F 

Tomlinson and Henry Brothers at the 

forefront, the Castle Meadow 

Campus is poised to make a lasting 

impact on the region. 

https://gftomlinson.co.uk/ 


Landmark expansion of technology hub 

completes in Coventry 

PROJECTS 

Works have completed at 

Project Holst – a £75 

million industrial 

warehouse scheme 

located at Coventry’s renowned 

Prospero Ansty Park. 

Ansty Park is a major business 

park positioned next to the M6 and 

M69 junction providing unrivalled 

access to the UK’s major motorway 

network, which is home to a number 

of high-profile companies including 

Rolls-Royce, Sainsbury’s, Cadent, 

Meggitt and MTC. 

McLaren Construction (Midlands 

and North) commenced the delivery 

of four industrial units and 

associated offices at Project Holst in 

January last year, on behalf of 

Manse Opus. All units are now 

finished and open to speculative 

tenants. 

The commercial units span a 

total of 856,109 sq. ft. and 

predominantly comprise a cladded 

portal frame with a CAT A open plan 

layout. The site also features an 

external logistics yard with a level 

and dock access area, dedicated 

parking spaces with electric charging 

points, communal areas and 

landscaped gardens. 

The offices have a largely open 

plan design to provide flexibility to 

prospective tenants, and the 

architecture has focused on the 

business culture and purpose of the 

technology park, reflecting the 

current variety of highly skilled 

professions already present within 

the surrounding developments. 

Units are highly energy efficient 

and were designed to meet a 

BREEAM Excellent rating. Their 

design has incorporated the 

application of roof top PVs and 

rainwater harvesting tanks. 

The scheme entailed a complex 

earthworks operation which took 

place prior to construction and 

extensive infrastructure works were 

needed to access the plots and 

associated balancing ponds, to 

accommodate storm water. All 

removed earth was also reused back 

within the site, to reduce waste and 

provide a greater circular approach. 

As part of the wider landscaping 

scheme, new ecological areas were 

also developed during the 

construction and population of the 

site, and prior to works commencing, 

great crested newts were identified 

and relocated, with protective 

fencing installed around the 

perimeter of the site. 

Giving back to the local 

community, voluntary works were 

also carried out at the Grace 

Academy during the summer months 

and the team created a sensory open 

space for students to enjoy. 

Project Holst marks the third 

scheme at the park that McLaren 

Construction and Manse Opus have 

partnered together for, following 

more than three years of 

collaboration. 

Operations director of McLaren 

Construction Midlands and North, 

Shaun Colley, said: “We’re delighted 

to have partnered with Manse Opus 

again to provide further expansion 

to Prospero Ansty Park for this next 

phase, which is now complete. 

“Prospero Ansty Park is a fastgrowing 

business and industrial hub 

for the West Midlands, for which we 

previously completed works for 

Apollo and Cadent. We have 

managed to overcome many 

challenges with this site – battling 

extreme weather. However, our 

skilled team of contractors managed 

to stick to the critical timelines of 

the programme and delivered an 

exceptional product. 

“Our focus for the scheme has 

been on providing energy efficiency 

and indoor environmental quality, 

which ensures energy consumption 

efficiencies whilst promoting a 

healthier and inviting workspace. 

The central high-specification 

commercial office space is ideally 

positioned to cater to clients in the 

industrial and logistics sector, 

bringing our client’s vision to life.” 

David Mitchell & Victoria 

Turnbull, Joint Managing Directors 

of Manse Opus commented “We are 

proud of what we have achieved on 

site since our appointment in 2019. 

The transformation of this unused 

land to create the stunning 

buildings you see there today has 

been a great privilege and one we 

are really proud to have been able to 

achieve. We have contributed to 

safeguarding the legacy of a site 

which has such an impressive 

history.” 

To find out more about McLaren 

Construction (Midlands and North) 

Ltd, please visit: 

www.mclarengroup.com. 


PROJECTS 

The Tung Auditorium: igus® HD e-spool® 

supports award-winning Concert Hall 

The Tung Auditorium in the 

heart of the University of 

Liverpool’s campus has 

undergone an incredible 

transformation, with the help of 

igus®, to enhance both the acoustic 

technology and architectural design, 

resulting in the venue winning at 

the MONDO-DR Awards in the 

concert hall category. 

Situated within the Yoko Ono 

Lennon Centre, The Tung Auditorium 

is a state-of-the-art concert hall 

designed to be a hive of musical 

activity. The well-executed final 

design required the efforts of many 

talented teams, such as Ellis Williams 

Architects, Arup Consultants 

(Venues), and the Adlib team, who 

specified igus® HD e-spool as a cable 

management system solution. 

The vision was clear: to create a 

space that nurtures creativity and 

functions effortlessly for the 

audience and performers. This was 

certainly achieved as The Tung 

Auditorium was nominated in the 

concert hall category for the 2024 

MONDO-DR Awards, taking the 

winning spot to celebrate the best 

installation projects around the 

world. 

As Tung’s Artistic Director 

Richard Hartwell explains, the venue 

needed to be flexible to meet the 

brief of facilitating pianists, string 

quartets, singers, and up to 70-piece 

orchestras whilst also being used as 

a lecture hall as part of its daily 

operation. The auditorium required 

strict organisation in its design in 

order to provide an adaptable space 

for its range of visitors and the 

proposed igus® solution successfully 

achieved the desired cable 

management. 

The igus® HD E-spool is a cable 

The MONDO-DR Award winning Tung Auditorium uses the igus® HD e-spool® as part of their project to modernise and 

simplify the space for audience and performers alike. 

management system, designed to 

suit limited spaces and provide 

flexibility of use in any direction. 

The cables are encased in an energy 

chain, and the use of an igus 

twisterband means that no break in 

the cable is needed, and there are no 

slip rings or other systems. 

Adjustments and extensions of the 

filling are also possible at any time 

afterwards, so the product can be 

adapted to suit customer needs 

exactly. Additionally, while lack of 

space was not a factor in this 

particular project, the e-spool® is 

designed to work around tight 

spaces, so there are almost no limits 

to the locations in which it can 

operate. 

THE IGUS® DESIGN IN PRACTICE 

The igus® HD e-spool® sits alongside 

the motorised winches, in the roof 

void above the auditorium, deployed 

to address the challenges of dynamic 

cable management. At the heart of 

the e-spool® is the innovative 

twisterband that manages moving 

cables without twisting them. In the 

words of Adlib, this gives the venue 

a ‘reliable and efficient way to 

manage its large amounts of data, 

audio and multi-core cabling’. 

Created with the intention of being 

cost-effective and space-saving, the 

e-spool® consistently exceeds 

expectations and extends the service 

life of the cables it manages to 

reduce unnecessary downtime. In a 

space as fast-paced as a university 

auditorium, the show must go on, 

and the igus e-spool® has a proven 

track record of supporting multipurpose 

venues where flexibility is 

required. 

While igus® is perhaps more 

well-known for products in 

industries such as manufacturing 

and construction, the e-spool® is a 

great example of the diverse range 

of products offered to a variety of 

industries. The Tung Auditorium is 

also an excellent example of a 

project that resulted in an exemplary 

final design, rewarded with the 

winning title in this year’s MONDO- 

DR award in its category. 

www.igus.co.uk 


PROJECTS 

ESW achieves ‘massive’ improvement 

in heat retention, comfort & aesthetic at 

BCL pilot with a Mapei Mapetherm EWI System 

The Mapetherm Mineral Wool 

External Wall Insulation (EWI) 

system from Mapei, has been 

installed as part of a Bristol 

City Leap (BCL) pilot retrofits 

scheme. The scheme, in the City’s 

Brentry district, comprised the 

upgrade of 16 Easiform homes to 

achieve energy efficiency and 

carbon reduction. The EWI system 

was installed by Bristol-based ESW 

Construction Services Ltd. Following 

installation of a cavity fill system 

combined with the Mapetherm EWI, 

a u-value of 0.22 W/m2K was 

achieved, compared with a preretrofit 

rating of 2.06 W/m2K, 

demonstrating greatly improved 

heat retention and comfort. 

An innovative partnership 

between Bristol City Council and 

Ameresco Ltd, Bristol City Leap aims 

to accelerate green energy 

investment in Bristol and help 

towards decarbonising the whole 

city. Over the next five years, it will 

invest at least £424 million into low 

carbon energy infrastructure 

including solar, wind, heat networks, 

heat pumps and energy efficiency 

measures in order to help the city 

meet its carbon reduction target of 

becoming carbon neutral by 2030. 

Each of the 16 Easiform homes 

in Brentry features a non-standard 

concrete cast-in-situ construction. 

The scope of renovation works 

included replacement of roofing 

elements, renovation of chimney 

stacks, insulation of cold roof space, 

internal ventilation works, cavity 

wall extraction, fenestration 

installation, cavity wall fill and a 

wide range of enabling works. As 

part of the energy efficiency 

improvements, Mapetherm Mineral 

Wool - BBA 13/4977 certified highdensity 

rock wool insulating panels 

for thermal insulations systems – 

were installed throughout the 

properties external walls, totalling 

over 1400 m2. 

“The Mapetherm system has been 

tried and tested on many of our 

projects. Mapei’s products are high 

quality, easy to use and the final 

results speak for themselves. The 

service we get from Mapei’s sales 

and technical team has always been 

first class and the support they offer 

on site is second to none,” 

commented 

Carlo Bonomini, ESW’s 

Commercial Manager. 

“ESW has been instrumental in 

the success of the pilot project; 

having accumulated experience and 

knowledge of the Mapetherm 

Mineral Wool EWI system over 

several years proved essential in 

overcoming the initial teething 

problems of the pilot. Diligence and 

thoroughness prior, during and after 

works paved the way for high 

standards, outstanding results and a 

happy client, as well as improving 

the lives of those residing in the 

properties,” commented Jay 

Shuttleworth, Construction Manager 

at Bristol City Leap. 

“Tenant comments have been 

positive following the completion of 

their properties, with a remarkable 

difference and satisfaction of the 

results experienced, an improved 

exterior with a massive improvement 

to internal heat retention and 

comfort. Many tenants also 

appreciate the reduced CO2 

footprint resulting from the works,” 

Jay Shuttleworth added. 

For more information, please 

contact: info@mapei.co.uk or visit 

www.mapei.co.uk 


PROJECTS 

Illuminating Heritage: DHA Designs Transforms Exeter 

College Library with a Sympathetic Lighting Scheme 

DHA Designs proudly 

announce the completion 

of a transformative lighting 

design project for the 

historic Exeter College Library. 

Originally constructed in 1857 by 

renowned architect George Gilbert 

Scott, the neo-gothic library is a 

treasured architectural gem in 

Oxford. 

The library is one of several 

works by Scott at the college and is 

situated overlooking the Rector’s 

Garden, adjacent to the 17th 

century walls of Convocation House, 

the Grade I listed historic court 

room of the Bodleian Library, 

separated only by a sliver of ground 

between buttresses. 

The project’s primary challenge 

was to meet the needs of the 

college and its students while 

honouring the library's heritage. Key 

to this was the provision of suitable 

lighting for reading desks and 

bookshelves, alongside creating a 

calm, inviting atmosphere that 

encourages study. 

The main building, spanning the 

ground and first floors, features tall, 

free-standing bookcases that were 

meticulously removed and 

refurbished, which allowed DHA 

Designs to fix lights and cabling to 

the tops of these cases without 

damaging their fabric. These 

cantilevered lights then cast light 

down over the shelves. Additionally, 

an uplighting system on top of the 

bookcases highlights the intricate 

decorative ceilings, showcasing the 

library’s architectural splendour. 

Custom-made oak desks, 

equipped with integrated task lights, 

offer students personalised control 

over their lighting. These task lights 

not only blend seamlessly with the 

bookcases but also feature energysaving 

automatic shut-off 

functionality. 

The ground floor features long 

reed glass pendants suspended over 

the desks, while the first floor boasts 

a tall reeded glass light that 

accentuates the room's height, 

drawing attention to the wooden 

ceiling and stone-framed windows. 

The restored windows, showcasing 

stained-glass roundels by Edward 

Burne-Jones and crafted by William 

Morris’s factory, now find new 

resonance through modern light 

fittings that utilise diverse glass 

types to create varied atmospheric 

effects. Specially commissioned 

dichroic glass fins in the roof light 

of the new circulation spaces further 

enhance this interplay of light and 

glass. 

The annexe continues the theme 

with similar reading and bookcase 

lights. Concealed uplights within the 

bookcases and the new clerestory 

provide an airy, illuminated 

environment. At the ceiling level, 

four large pendants outline the 

space, creating a striking visual 

effect. 

In the historic turret stairs, 

outdated surface-mounted 

bulkheads have been replaced with a 

continuous low-profile LED 

extrusion that discreetly illuminates 

the space - running vertically up the 

side of the wall, disappearing into 

the steps to reappear on the next 

level. The dome of the turret and 

the figure that supports it have been 

illuminated for the first time using 

discreet spotlights placed at the top 

of the profile. 

All lighting elements are 

connected to a sophisticated control 

system, allowing for dimming and 

switching based on time of day or 

student needs. This ensures an 

optimal balance of lighting and 

energy efficiency, tailored to the 

dynamic requirements of the 

library’s users. 

Des O'Donovan, Director at DHA 

Designs said “Completing the 

lighting design for Exeter College 

Library hasn’t been without its 

challenges, but it’s been a truly 

rewarding project. Our goal was to 

enhance the heritage features of the 

college, whilst providing an 

environment that students find 

comfortable to study in. We are 

proud to have created an inviting 

and inspiring environment for 

students and scholars alike.” 

With a deep understanding of 

architectural context and of creating 

lighting design schemes for heritage 

projects, DHA Designs collaborates 

closely with clients to create lighting 

designs that enhance both the 

historic features and functionality of 

spaces. The lighting design for 

Exeter College Library respects its 

historical significance while also 

enhancing its functionality for the 

future. 

https://www.dhadesigns.com/ 

Project credits: 

Client: 

Exeter College, Oxford 

Lighting Design: DHA Designs 

Architect: 

Nex 

Heritage Consultant & 

Conservation Architect: 

Donald Insall 

Services Engineer: 

Laurence Owen 

Photography: James Newton 


PROJECTS 

STO’s external wall insulation system specified 

for 8,000m² Canary Wharf recladding project 

ASto external wall insulation 

(EWI) system spanning 

8,000m² has upgraded the 

exterior of a waterside 

residential development in Canary 

Wharf, London, providing fire 

compliant facades. 

Pierhead Lock is situated 

opposite the O2 arena on the River 

Thames. Beginning with a 12-storey 

tower by the water, the 

development gradually steps down 

to two storeys as it curls round the 

dock. Aiming to reflect the 

appearance of a 1930s cruise ship, 

the scheme also features semicircular 

apartment blocks and a 

rounded tower, all with white 

facades. 

Noviun Architects were 

responsible for designing remedial 

works for the exterior cladding, 

which required the existing 

expanded polystyrene insulation 

(EPS) to be removed, to comply with 

amendments to the Building 

Regulations. Following extensive 

investigative work, the architects 

and façade restoration specialist 

Stoneguard worked with Sto to 

develop a detailed specification of 

the EWI system. 

The BBA-certified StoTherm 

Mineral K external wall insulation 

system achieves a reaction to fire of 

A2-s1, d0 in accordance with BS EN 

13501-1. The A1-rated mineral fibre 

insulation boards were adhesively 

fixed to the concrete substrate using 

StoLevell Duo Plus. This levelling 

mineral adhesive was applied to the 

back of the insulation boards, with 

fixings used to secure the insulation 

boards to the substrate, including 

through the mesh to suit wind load 

conditions. 

StoFlexyl, an acrylic-based, fibrereinforced 

waterproofing product 

was also used to encapsulate the 

insulation below the dampproof 

course. This coating protects against 

moisture or water ingress of the 

insulated system. 

To reflect Pierhead Lock’s original 

architectural style, the system was 

finished with StoSilco K1.5 silicone 

resin render. This provided a crisp 

white finish as well as high levels of 

water repellence and protection 

from harsh weather conditions. 

Given the development’s waterside 

location, the render was coated with 

StoColor Dryonic G and StoSilco G 

façade paint ensuring robust 

protection against algae growth. 

In the development’s rounded 

tower, the StoVentec carrier board, 

which is made of recycled glass 

granulate and has a high 

compressive strength, was installed 

over the soffit with new insulation. 

This replaced an existing dry lining 

system featuring EPS. 

Andreas Constantinou, Finance 

Director from Stoneguard said: “We 

have a long and successful history 

with Sto, so knew we could rely on 

its products and service to deliver 

this extensive recladding project. 

“Not only did we have to install 

the Sto system across a huge area, 

we had to overcome various 

challenges. The development was 

occupied by residents throughout 

the duration of the refurbishment 

project, and its proximity to the 

River Thames made access difficult. 

The architectural curves that feature 

throughout Pierhead Lock added 

further complexity as the new 

insulation had to be carefully cut 

into the right shape. 

“Sto’s technical team was on 

hand to support us throughout. 

Thanks to this strong working 

relationship and the skills of our onsite 

team, we were able to complete 

the project two months ahead of 

schedule.” 

Chris Watts, Director at Noviun 

Architects added: “The installation of 

the A1 non-combustible render from 

Sto was one of only 50 in the 

country successfully delivered at the 

time. This impressive project was 

signed off by Building Control 

without any issues and completed 

on budget and programme.” 

www.sto.co.uk. 


PROJECTS 

London railway arches converted into modern 

space as part of £200m rejuvenation plan 

THE TRANSFORMATION of six 

vacant railway arches in the 

East End of London has 

reached completion, providing 

a range of new commercial spaces 

that mix the city’s heritage with 

modern need. 

The project, which was delivered 

by leading multi-disciplinary 

consultancy Pick Everard in 

partnership with Stephen George + 

Partners (SGP), sees the rejuvenation 

of an area steeped in history located 

only 16 minutes away from the City 

of London. 

Creating a space suitable for 

light industrial use, works completed 

at Witan Street, Bethnal Green have 

included comprehensive surveys of 

the arch structures and original 

brickwork, with new interiors 

installed alongside glazed infills and 

electric roller shutter doors. 

The new commercial spaces are 

part of Project 1000, The Arch 

Company’s £200m plan to bring a 

thousand empty or derelict spaces 

into use across England and Wales 

by 2030. 

Providing expertise in structural, 

civil and building engineering, 

Santosh Patel, strategic account 

director at Pick Everard, said: “From 

concept to completion, we were able 

to advise and coordinate with SGP 

to allow efficient structural and 

drainage solutions to be designed. 

“This collaborative approach has 

delivered exceptional results that 

converts the unused archways into 

modern industrial units, creating 

spaces that are both functional and 

versatile. With every inch of space in 

London highly valuable, the 

regeneration of the arches grants 

exciting new opportunities. 

“It’s been a rewarding experience 

to once again collaborate with SGP 

and The Arch Company on a 

development that will support local 

businesses and enrich the urban area 

of Bethnal Green.” 

Alan Soper, studio director at 

SGP, said: “Urban industrial property 

can play a vital part in local 

economies, yet good-sized, modern 

industrial space close to central 

London is often difficult to find. 

“That’s why we’re delighted to be 

working with The Arch Company on 

the transformation of these 

previously unloved arches on Witan 

Street into vital commercial spaces 

that will suit a variety of industrial 

occupiers and support their daily 

operations in a location close to the 

heart of one of the busiest cities in 

the world. 

“Witan Street, with its nearby 

transport links to central London, is 

perfectly located for commercial 

businesses to thrive and it’s 

incredibly gratifying to have 

refurbishment work complete and 

see these arches back in productive 

use.” 

Elsewhere in London, work has 

commenced on the refurbishment of 

four disused and dilapidated railway 

arches on America Street, 

Southwark, into spaces for 

restaurants, cafés and bars. 

To learn more on Pick Everard on 

the services it provides, visit: 

www.pickeverard.co.uk 


2 - 4 December 2024 

ExCeL London 

REGISTRATION IS 

OPEN 

Register now 

Over 23,000 

attendees 

from over 180 

countries 

180+ Speakers 

Over 200 

hours of 

content

19-20 November 

COATINGS • TOOLS • DEMOS • IDEAS • DEALS 

CBS Arena, Coventry 

NATIONAL 

PAINTING AND 

DECORATING 

SHOW 

It’s where the trade meets! 

w w w . p a i n t s h o w . c o . u k

Refurb Projects August 2024

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