Clark Contracts will retrofit the BE-ST building
Clark Contracts has been awarded the contract to undertake the deep retrofit of Built Environment – Smarter Transformation (BE-ST)’s building which houses Scotland’s National Retrofit Centre.
Following a competitive tender process, evaluated on both price and quality, Clark Contracts were selected to undertake the retrofit of Scotland’s National Retrofit Centre at BE-ST’s Innovation Campus. Edinburgh Napier University, administrator of BE-ST, was awarded significant funding through Scotland’s Public Sector Heat Decarbonisation Fund, which is delivered by Salix on behalf of the Scottish Government to support the retrofit of the building at BE-ST’s Campus.
The retrofit of Scotland’s National Retrofit Centre is a key step in Scotland’s net zero journey as it will transform the building into a living demonstrator of best practices in non-domestic retrofit. The design team will test and optimise retrofit techniques that address the challenges of retrofitting large-scale, multi-use buildings, while documenting and sharing learnings, experiences and how decisions are made.
Designed in collaboration with John Gilbert Architects, Luths Services and Narro Associates, the project is taking a fabric first approach. Phase 1 will see the existing curtain walling system replaced with a new insulated CLT panel system which will be manufactured offsite. This system will be complimented by increased roof and floor insulation which will also dramatically reduce the building’s heating demands.
To accommodate the transition from a gas-based heating system to a zero direct emissions heating solution, the design is integrating multiple systems and approaches, including hybrid heat pump systems, supported by solar PV and thermal array, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, as well as energy-efficient lighting and controls.
Throughout the retrofit process, BE-ST and Clark Contracts will provide regular updates through social media channels, online platforms, and site tours so that industry stakeholders can observe the retrofit journey and learn about the practical solutions applied to the challenges that arise. Once complete, the building will become a hub for retrofit training so that both during and after the retrofit process, the Centre will serve as a hub for retrofit knowledge-sharing and upskilling for industry.
Stephen Good, Chief executive at BE-ST said:
“We’re really excited to be working with the team at Clark Contracts on this project. As we embark on the transformative retrofit of Scotland’s National Retrofit Centre, Clark Contracts will bring their wealth of experience and expertise to work with BE-ST and the design team to test and optimise approaches and navigate the complexities of retrofitting a large-scale, multi-use building. Retrofitting existing buildings to achieve zero carbon outcomes is a challenge, but the insights we will gain throughout this process will be invaluable and we can’t wait to share them with the sector every step of the way.”
Caitriona Jordan, Associate director of retrofit and energy efficiency at BE-ST, said:
”This marks the beginning of our investment in Scotland’s National Retrofit Centre —a platform for the sector to come together to learn, collaborate and upskill in retrofit practices, to tackle the challenges and realise the opportunities of retrofit head-on. Through a series retrofit interventions, across multiple phases, we are uniquely positioned to bring the entire sector along with us on a live retrofit journey.”
Gerry Cummins, Director at Clark Contracts added:
“We are delighted to have been selected to lead this retrofit for BE-ST and look forward to working in partnership with them and the design team, to deliver this project in a collaborative manner. Throughout the project, we will be able to actively promote the facility and BE-ST’s wider initiatives, whilst also creating valuable opportunities for our team to enhance their skills and expertise in deep retrofit and EnerPhit projects.”
Our cities, placemaking, living and the net zero challenge programme was supported by E.ON, Equans and Mears
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