Meeting the challenges of water supply in tall buildings

Water supply systems for tall buildings must meet demanding standards, with building services engineers needing to balance robust performance with ease of installation. In this article Giles Coombes, Senior Product Manager at Polypipe Building Services, discusses how choosing a system with a tough multi-layer construction can help to solve these challenges.

A robust solution

Water supply systems must be able to perform not only when in use, but also help to facilitate straightforward installation to mitigate the risk of failures that could end up becoming costly. Multi-layer plastic piping systems, such as our own MecFlow Supply System, have been engineered to offer high strength and durability to meet these challenges. Our MecFlow Fusion range uses a pipe material that includes a central layer which has been reinforced by microfibres laid in a mesh formation to provide mechanical strength.

Secure, long-lasting joints are essential to prevent costly failures within a system, which is why we developed our unique patented CLICKWELD technology (left) – to combine all the reliability benefits of an electrofusion weld with added clip connections. This allows for pre-assembly installation before the final weld, cutting installation time on site by up to a third.

Where smaller diameter pipework is needed for apartment and corridor installations, press-fit jointing is a reliable option provided it is of sufficient quality. Our MecFlow Press system includes a leak-before-press function with visual inspection windows which give installation teams complete peace of mind that the pipework has been installed successfully.

Durability for the rigours of commercial uses

Within a multi-occupancy tall building, water supplied at high flow rates can create the potential for pipework to transmit noise which must be minimised for the comfort and wellbeing of the occupants. The increased density of a multi-layer composite pipe helps to reduce noise and acoustic vibration, while the smooth internal bore of MecFlow Supply Systems not only reduces noise, but it also includes anti-microbial protection to prevent the build-up of bacteria over time.

It is also highly resistant to abrasive liquids which is essential to noise prevention and long-term use, as wear and tear to pipework over time can change the water flow increasing the potential for pipework noise and system failure. In the case of traditional metal pipework, the possibility of both corrosion and consequent noise is increased, as the metal bore breaks down causing increased resistance and water flow noise which can be transmitted throughout the building.

Pre-fabrication

Tall buildings can throw up unexpected challenges during the build, and so we back our MecFlow Supply systems with dedicated technical and design support for specifiers, contractors, and installation teams. For total control, we provide tailor-made pre-fabrication solutions through our Advantage service.

We can remove many of the risks associated with installing supply systems on-site, as Advantage provides design, fabrication, delivery, and technical support in one end-to-end service. Advantage products are manufactured in a factory-controlled environment where every assembly is air tested as standard to ensure confidence.

REVIT files and environmental product declarations are also available for the MecFlow range. This makes it simple to design a system and create a pre-engineered, data rich 3D model. At the click of a button, you can transfer the design to us to provide a quotation against it.

An ideal choice

The performance capabilities of robust multi-layer pipework systems make them a smart choice when looking for a durable water supply system within a tall building. They are efficient to install, both as a standalone system and when used with a prefabrication service. Yet they’re tough enough to cope with the typical rigours of large construction projects and frequent heavy use. At Polypipe Building Services, we are committed to working with specifiers, contractors, and installers to provide the best solutions for their project – reducing the challenges they face which impact project delivery, and to help them to build better.

For more information about the MecFlow Supply System from Polypipe Building Services visit www.polypipe.com/mecflow

 

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OSB: A KEY MATERIAL IN AIRTIGHT TIMBER FRAME HOMES

Structural timber and modern methods of construction are set to play an important role in the UK achieving its net zero targets and meeting the Future Homes Standard.  With new homes expected to produce 75-80% less carbon emissions compared to current levels, the controlled manufacturing environment of offsite timber frame construction has seen OSB with built-in vapour and air barrier properties emerge as a potential game-changer and a key component in the creation of an airtight building envelope.

The revised Part F and Part L requirements of the Building Regulations, which address ventilation and conservation of fuel and power, are paving the way to even more stringent Future Homes Standard in 2025. It will place even more importance on the design of a building’s envelope. Timber frame manufacturers that can provide high-performance, airtight envelope solutions will be well-positioned to meet these changing regulations and capitalise on the move towards low-energy construction.

Pushing the envelope

In order to meet the evolving standards, there is an innovative solution to simplify the path to airtight building envelopes. The increasing demand for double sheathed timber frames in both structural applications and the development of offsite closed panels, led to innovation for producing an airtight OSB/3 panel with airtightness engineered into the panel substrate. Manufacutured from MEDITE SMARTPLY’s sustainably managed forests in Ireland, SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT panels can be used as the airtight layer on the warm side of the insulation in timber frame construction systems, helping to create an airtight building envelope.

Each panel features alternating layers of wood strands coated with a high quality formaldehyde-free resin and wax binder system to deliver outstanding levels of airtightness. A specialist coating is then applied to ensure vapour resistance and provide a quality assured OSB solution for super-insulated and passive buildings, and enabling the elimination of a traditional additional vapour control membrane from the construction.

By seamlessly integrating air and vapour barriers into highly engineered OSB panels, this streamlines the installation process, minimising the risk of air leakage that often plagues traditional timber frame structures. This cutting-edge solution not only simplifies construction but also ensures a certified, proven approach to creating airtight building envelopes that will pave the way for low-carbon, energy-efficient homes of the future.

High-quality fresh air

Whilst airtightness is important for avoiding heat loss, an appropriate ventilation strategy should also be considered as without it, a building can potentially suffer from moisture and condensation issues and a reduction in indoor air quality.

To maintain a healthy indoor air quality whilst minimising energy loss, controlled ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) is a requirement in Passive House buildings. This involves extracting hot air from wet rooms such as bathrooms and kitchens and supplying fresh air to living areas and bedrooms. The fresh air is filtered and is heated by the extracted air through a heat exchanger. In very cold climates, the fresh air can be heated through ground or air source heat pumps.

Airtight timber frame homes

Testament to the benefits of OSB with built-in vapour and air barrier properties is an exciting regeneration project in Cardiff.  Lowfield Timber Frames specified SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT panels alongside a supply of their timber kits for a development of 12, two-bedroom houses in Heath, Cardiff.

Built to strict Passivhaus standards, the homes offer improved health and wellbeing conditions for occupants whilst requiring very low levels of energy for space heating or cooling. Additionally, using timber frame for the construction lowers the carbon footprint of the development.

One of the principal benefits of a Passivhaus build is the significant reduction in energy consumption during the operating life of the structure. This will ultimately lead to reduced energy costs, heating bills, and even lower carbon emissions for the planet.

Showcasing an impressive level of airtightness, the average air test result for the 12 homes in this development came in at below 0.5 ACH. Furthermore, a Larsen truss panel (a lightweight wall extension which creates extra wall space to a house insulation) was also used in the project. It was 330mm deep with the finished wall make-up being closer to 500mm, allowing for thicker insulation.

Darren Jarman, Managing Director of Lowfield Timber Frames, commented: “The Highfields scheme in Cardiff was just one of several Passivhaus schemes we have completed over the past two years. We now have an external wall build-up that not only meets the Passivhaus standards, but also has extremely low embodied carbon credentials.

“Whilst there are other products available which will achieve the airtightness, we feel SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT is the most robust solution available and eliminates the possibility of accidental damage, resulting in a failed test.”

For timber frame contractors, OSB that features integrated vapour control and air barrier properties will enable timber frame contractors to consistently achieve the stringent airtightness levels needed and create airtight, high performance building envelopes that surpass the new Future Homes Standard with ease.

To find out more visit https://mdfosb.com/en/products/smartply-osb

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Changing water infrastructure

‘By 2050 the UK water deficit is anticipated to be 4017 mega litres per day’, was the stark announcement at the National Water Framework Consultation launch in January 2022.

Since then, all water companies have been developing plans to upgrade the UKs water supply to meet this demand and reduce current usage levels, Per Capital Consumption (PCC) to 110 litres per day from its current average of 150.

Smart meters are seen as a significant part of the solution to reducing domestic water usage.  Thames Water have recorded post installation savings of 12-17%. All water companies are now working on plans for Advanced metering infrastructure, where all new connections or meters use the latest generation of smart meters.

New meter locations, underground no longer works

The industry has recognised that the most effective methods of installing the advanced metering infrastructure is to locate the meter above ground.

The use of the Groundbreaker water management system co-locates the water meter on the exterior wall of the dwelling, alongside gas and electric meters.  It has the advantage of providing a better environment for smart technology over traditional underground boundary boxes and the additional benefits of readability for the consumer as well as extended signal transmission and easy meter exchange.

Design out leak paths: comply with Water & Construction Industry Guidelines comply with “Water Safe” initiatives

The unique location of the Groundbreaker water management system future proofs the network and minimises the risk of developing leaks.  The position of the meter allows for a joint free water supply, eliminating joints in the water supply pipe maintains the integrity of the supply pipe.  The use of an uninterrupted supply has been recognised as best practice by Water UK and the Home Builders Federation.

Steve Leigh, Managing Director of Groundbreaker commented, ‘Portsmouth Water have demanded surface mounted meter housings as the standard required for all new properties for over 15 years. Working with them we have established the effectiveness and reliability of Groundbreaker.’  He continued, ‘With the need to maximise the effectiveness of smart metering programmes, I can’t see that there is a viable alternative – putting smart technology in a hole in the ground just does not work.’

Water efficient homes

Whilst smart meters can go some way towards achieving PCC reductions, alone they will not achieve the target level of 110 l/m.

Recently announced policies by United Utilities have recognised that water efficient homes are the key, as part of their new Environmental Incentives Scheme, all new properties developers will be encouraged to install water conservation measures requiring an output of 14 litres a minute or less.

One of the elements of this is the installation of a flow regulator within the water supply system.

Flow regulators modulate the rate at which water enters customer premises – regardless of network pressure, meaning a reduction in the volume of water used by customers even when ‘variable use’ appliances (i.e., showers, taps, hosepipes) are used.

As the flow of water into the premises is limited, then the volume of water used by the customer is also limited – without a degradation of service.

More importantly, flow regulators do not require any intervention or behavioural change on the part of the customer, thus leading to ‘natural’ reduction in per capita consumption.

As these products are fitted to the main water supply, and not each individual outlet, they remove any risk of consumer interference and ensure that minimum standards of water supply are maintained as specified within the Water Industry Act and Water Fittings Regulations.

Groundbreaker supply two products that fulfil this role.  In properties with a meter Groundbreaker’s NRv2 LoFlo can be installed between the water meter and manifold in any underground or surface mounted water meter enclosure.  This means fitting does not interfere with occupier.  Entry to the premises is not required. It is an easy, low-cost intervention that can be introduced without expensive excavation or retrospective work.

For properties are not metered, the new addition to the range is the LoFlo Inline.  This is fitted on the main water supply pipe, normally just after the main stop tap.

Both products have the added advantage of offering whole site protection against backflow or contamination of water services from private water pipes – the only products available that can offer this facility.

Achieving targets

Although it is recognised that improvements to the vast UK water network cannot be achieved overnight.  The new policies being introduced by our major water companies will take UK water usage towards the targets required to maintain a secure supply and work towards UK Net Zero targets.

For further details please contact Groundbreaker Systems at www.groundbreaker.co.uk

  • Steve Leigh is a Fellow of the Institute of Water and Managing Director of Groundbreaker Systems and was winner of the Home Builder Federation’s “Utility Individual of the Year for 2016”.
  • Groundbreaker Systems won the HBF’s ‘Utility of the Year’ in 2018.
  • Groundbreaker Systems are 2023 winners of the Building & Facilities News as Company of the Year for Innovation in Sustainable Water Management
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Wernick Group celebrates 90 years of business

Wernick Group proudly announces its 90th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the company’s rich history of delivering innovative and sustainable modular solutions.

The Wernick Group of companies has a proud legacy stretching back to 1934, growing from a humble maker of poultry crates to becoming Britain’s largest family-owned provider of portable and modular buildings, and off-grid power solutions.

Since its founding, the business has been at the forefront of the modular building industry. Whilst maintaining an enduring status as a family-owned and run business over the past nine decades, Wernick continues its mission to improve people’s lives through the provision of sustainable buildings and infrastructure.

CEO Jonathan Wernick, commented, “Samuel Wernick, my great-grandfather, started his working life as a poultry dealer. He manufactured wooden crates to transport the chickens which led him to start manufacturing as a commercial enterprise. It was Sam’s ability to adapt to the opportunity of manufacturing these crates that led to the birth of the Wernick Group a few years later. This ability to adapt quickly to opportunities remains one of the key strengths of the Wernick Group 90 years later. He would be immensely proud of everything the company has achieved over that time.

Today, the Wernick Group consists of six distinct businesses: Wernick Buildings, Wernick Hire, Wernick Refurbished Buildings, Wernick Events, Wernick AVDanzer, and Wernick Power Solutions. Each company within the group holds focal importance in delivering comprehensive and tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of its clients.

The last decade, in particular, has seen a vigorous expansion through a combination of shrewd acquisitions and organic growth. The Wernick Group currently has forty operating centres throughout the UK, working across both the public and private sectors. The Group of companies combine to offer the sale and hire of permanent and temporary modular buildings, site accommodation, and off-grid power solutions.

Wernick Group’s Chairman David Wernick commented, “We are a 4th generation company with my son Jonathan running the Group as CEO. We take great pride in what we’ve achieved over the last 90 years and are incredibly grateful for the dedication of our employees during this period.”

www.wernick.co.uk

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GRAHAM begins construction of low-carbon residential project in Edinburgh

GRAHAM has initiated the construction of a £59m ($73.99m) low-carbon residential project in Edinburgh, named Burnet Point.

To be located in Abbey Lane, the project is claimed to be the first-ever mixed-use residential development of its kind by student accommodation provider Unite Students.

Unite Students group development director Tom Brewerton said: “This is the company’s first combined development of purpose-built student accommodation, build-to-rent and affordable housing. We look forward to contributing positively to the student and private rental market in Edinburgh to help address the supply-demand imbalance in the city.

“This development reflects Unite Students’ ongoing commitment to providing high-standard, affordable student accommodation in locations where demand is greatest.”

The project will utilise a low-carbon concrete and timber composite, an eco-friendly alternative to natural wood.

Burnet Point will feature 298 student bedrooms, including a variety of cluster and studio flats, with communal spaces and accessible landscaped roof areas.

In addition, the scheme will offer 66 flats for rent.

Of these, 17 units will be designated as affordable and managed by Hillcrest Homes.

The completion of Burnet Point is scheduled for September 2025, aligning with the 2025/2026 academic term.

GRAHAM Building North regional managing director Gary Holmes said: “Burnet Point is a unique project which prioritises sustainable construction.

“The demand for student accommodation continues to grow and the build-to-rent market remains buoyant, giving us a strong pipeline of projects in the coming years.”

Last month, GRAHAM, on behalf of Wirral Council, announced plans to initiate two motorway improvement schemes in Birkenhead’s town centre.

From Global Data

 

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Net-zero construction: Bath leads the way in cutting emissions in construction

Bath and North East Somerset Council have announced a planning policy to reduce carbon emissions and work towards net-zero construction

This approach, in collaboration with the University of Bath, shows six initiatives aimed at achieving net-zero targets through local collaboration.

The report presented by the Key Cities Innovation Network (KCIN) in “Civic Partners in Net Zero“ sets an example of sustainable construction practices across the UK.

Achieving net zero by tackling construction pollution

Since January 2023, the Council has implemented strict local planning policies requiring that all new building developments achieve net zero operational energy. Major developments must also meet an incorporated carbon target, surpassing national building regulations. Bath and North East Somerset were the first UK local authorities to introduce these planning policies.

What happens in our cities – in construction, in transport, in waste processing, in energy consumption – has a major impact in how we reach our net zero targets as a nation

The council worked with the university to review the impact. So far, they found that initial assessments reveal a significant improvement in the projected outcomes of new applications, showing a promising shift towards eco-conscious construction practices. Industry support for the policy aims has been strong, showing a collective commitment to combatting climate change.

Professor Ian White, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bath, praised the joint effort, highlighting sustainability as a priority research theme for the institution.

Initiatives across the UK

The “Civic Partners in Net Zero” report also features other initiatives from across the UK including:

  • Coventry University and Coventry City Council’s new technology enables active recharging of electric vehicles, changing transportation in urban settings.
  • Lancaster University’s collaboration with educators integrates sustainability into everyday teaching, inspiring future generations to embrace eco-friendly practices.
  • Wrexham University allows communities and industries to drive the net zero transition, promoting a culture of environmental management.
  • The University of South Wales explores the potential of biotechnology to support a circular economy by transforming waste into clean energy and fertilisers.
  • The University of Southampton teams up with a theatre company to emotionally engage primary school audiences with climate science.

Cllr John Merry, Chair of Key Cities and Deputy Mayor of Salford City Council, said: “The ideas presented here are important and exciting. Important because what happens in our cities – in construction, in transport, in waste processing, in energy consumption – has a major impact in how we reach our net zero targets as a nation, and we in the Key Cities are determined to play our part. Exciting because they demonstrate the ingenuity in our universities and councils, and the strength of our growing civic partnership across the network. These are ideas we can build on, both as a network and in partnership with our communities, stakeholders and the government.”

Professor Maria Hinfelaar, Vice-Chancellor of Wrexham University, also highlighted the collective effort needed to replicate and upscale these initiatives.

Working towards net-zero-carbon construction

Cllr Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council and Deputy Chair of Key Cities, said: “In Bath and North East Somerset, I am proud of the strong and longstanding partnerships we have with our two universities so it is great to see our collaboration with the University of Bath on net-zero-carbon construction so well reflected in the report.

Source: Open Access Government

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Cash incentive to boost number of construction industry apprentices

Telford College’s apprenticeships team is helping to signpost businesses to as much as £10,000 for each candidate which fills a much-needed skills gap in the sector.

“The Construction Industry Training Board has grants for approved apprenticeships at level two and above that focus on core construction skills needed across the industry,” said Telford College business development manager Chris Field.

“Employers are entitled to £2,500 a year through the CITB for attendance whilst completing the apprenticeship, payable in quarterly instalments.

“On top of this, there is also £3,500 achievement grant which is payable on completion of the full apprenticeship.

“For an apprenticeship which runs for two and a half or three years, that could add up to more than £10,000.

“You have to be a CITB registered employer to be entitled to this grant aid – for smaller-sized construction businesses, this is free. Even for the larger companies, it’s worthwhile and the membership fee is a tiny fraction of the incentives which are available.”

Telford College’s construction-related apprenticeships which qualify for the CITB grant support include property maintenance, bricklayer, groundworks, highways maintenance and road surfacing operative.

Chris added: “We are here to support employers every step of the way. We recognise that they are experts in construction industries – not in filling out paperwork for grant applications. That’s where we come in, with our experience and expertise.

“It’s about encouraging the next generation into the construction industry to keep pace with huge demand for skills.

“Construction companies might not know about the grant support which is available through these channels – or think it’s too good to be true and there must be a catch. There isn’t.”

He added: “We can liaise with industry bodies and help with the paperwork. You can trust us to manage the process and make it an easy process.”

From The Shropshire Star

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North America modular construction market poised for steady growth, projected to reach US$ 42.2 billion by 2032

The North America modular construction sector is experiencing a significant upsurge, with the market size hitting US$ 27.3 billion in the year 2023. Forecasts indicate a robust continuation of this trend, with an anticipated climb to a market size of US$ 42.2 billion by the year 2032. This projection corresponds to a compounded annual growth rate of 5.0% from 2023 to 2032. This expansion signifies the industry’s growing commitment to sustainable construction practices and its response to the increasing demand for rapid, cost-efficient building solutions.

The substantial growth can chiefly be attributed to the augmented demand for prefabricated building structures in North America, coupled with the sector’s intent to diminish construction time and costs. The market’s upward momentum is further supported by the surge in infrastructure projects, encompassing healthcare, corporate offices, residential complexes, and educational institutions.

Additionally, heightened environmental concerns regarding the carbon emissions associated with traditional construction are propelling regional interest towards modular construction methods. Government initiatives across the United States and Canada that encourage the erection of green buildings have also played a pivotal role in the market’s growth. Moreover, the advent of advanced technology integrations, such as 3D printing and Building Information Modeling (BIM), is predicted to further amplify the market’s prospects.

Impact of COVID-19 on the modular construction sector

Despite healthy growth indicators, the modular construction market faced setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Measures to curtail the virus’ spread, such as lockdowns and stay-at-home orders, prompted the postponement of various construction projects, creating disruptions in supply chains and temporary facility shutdowns, all of which impacted market performance.

Key market segmentation

The market is segmented into distinct divisions, including Permanent Modular Construction (PMC) and Relocatable Buildings (RB). Additional segments comprise various sectors, such as public, residential, and commercial, alongside a breakdown by construction material, with categories encompassing wood, concrete, and steel, among others. Geographically, the market encapsulates profound analysis at both regional and country levels, with the United States and Canada being central areas of focus within the North American market.

Industry competitive landscape

The competitive dynamics of the industry have been carefully assessed, showcasing key players who are contributing to the market’s development and expansion. These industry leaders are fostering innovation and utilizing strategic initiatives to strengthen their market presence, ultimately serving a diverse range of construction needs in the modular construction space.

Looking forward

As the North America modular construction market paves the path toward a more sustainable and efficient future, it continues to offer substantial opportunities for players within the industry and potential entrants, with a steady growth rate that signals enduring demand for modular construction solutions across North America.

Source: Yahoo! Finance

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Farnham mayor opens new eco-friendly dining hall at Barfield Prep School

Barfield Prep School welcomed a visit by the mayor of Farnham, Cllr Alan Earwaker, to open its new dining hall on Monday, April 22. Sustainable construction firm TG Escapes designed and built the new hall using modular construction methods in just four months, allowing children to continue their education.

The bespoke timber building offers panoramic views across the school’s grounds and plenty of natural light through its floor-to-ceiling windows.

It is a low energy ‘A’ rated building with solar panels on the roof, air source heat pumps, active ventilation and heat recovery, and LED lighting.

It boasts a commercial kitchen with cold and dry stores, pot wash area, office, toilet, plant room and a veranda overlooking the headteacher’s lawn.

Andy Boyle, Barfield headmaster, said: “Thanks to TG Escapes we now have a beautifully designed eco-friendly functional building for everyone at the school to enjoy and benefit from.”

Source: Farnham Herald

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Algeco UK shares a glimpse of solution at MOD Stafford

Algeco UK OSS has shared behind-the-scenes images of its latest 75-bedroom Single Living Accommodation (SLA) complex at the Ministry of Defence (MOD) Stafford. The company has delivered a full turnkey solution, acting as Principal Contractor to the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and the British Army.

Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) refers to offsite and onsite techniques, which could include mass production and factory assembly as alternatives to traditional building methods. These are a fast way of delivering new buildings focused on the efficiency of materials and human resources.  Modular buildings devised utilising MMC have the potential to deliver significant improvements in productivity and quality for both the construction industry and the end user. They also minimise the work required on-site, which can have added benefits and appeal for those in sectors such as Defence.

The solution provided to MOD Stafford is a CTM Leve1 (Category 1) Pre-Manufacturing 3D primary structural system that will be used to house members of the army. The three-storey building, known as Beacon Barracks, is set to offer high-quality accommodation with integral communal areas, as well as a brick slip façade and sustainable features including solar PV and heat pumps. The modules for the barracks were manufactured in Carnaby in East Yorkshire and delivered to the site with a Pre-Manufactured Value (PMV) of around 80%. MOD Stafford was designed by AHR Architects, supporting the Algeco UK OSS team on the construction stage and architectural design through its Leeds offices.

A full site inspection has now been carried out with strong feedback received by attendees and participants, particularly regarding the overall quality and feel compared to comparative schemes.  Volumetric Air tests are carried out on all completed projects and the SLA Block at MOD Stafford has achieved a rating of 1.18. Lee Kenton of Build Energy commented that 1.18 is “exemplary for the size of the building” and “far exceeded” the Passivhaus gold standard of 0.60, with an air change rate of 0.48.

The new barracks at MOD Stafford is part of an £800M investment into SLA by the Army over the next decade. This investment into modern infrastructure is set to provide military personnel with the fit-for-purpose accommodation facilities they deserve, as well as contribute to ambitions to become Carbon Net Zero by 2050.

Brigadier Pete Quaite, head of army infrastructure plans, said: “I visited the Single Living Accommodation under construction at Beacon Barracks at the start of this year. To see the finished block just two months later shows the impressive pace of progress being achieved through our modular design and build programme. This new SLA is another excellent example of how ongoing Army investment is improving the quality of life for our people, providing them with modern, spacious and well-designed accommodation.”

Wayne Yeomans, Algeco UK OSS sales and marketing director, added: “This is modular and offsite construction at its best. I must applaud the Algeco UK team as well as our supply chain partners, including AHR Architects, for making this possible. Working with architects means we have incorporated innovative features into the design, such as solar PV orientation to maximise the amount of electricity produced and optimising the number of overall modules required.

“We were selected as the modular building partner by the MOD because of our track record in supplying high quality accommodation on a diverse range of other publicly funded projects, along with our willingness to collaborate with project partners and deliver excellent value for money. “The quality of these solutions is proven by results, like the industry-leading scores achieved in our recent volumetric air test, which is not an easy achievement. We have learnt so much from this project and we are proud this will also help inform the Defence Infrastructure Organisation’s future Programmatic Design approach.”

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