In 2020 we were appointed by Torfaen County Borough Council, via Morgan Sindall, to deliver a new Welsh-Medium two-form primary school with nursery and childcare facilities to serve the Pontypool area. The new provision was funded by Welsh Government as part of its Cymraeg 2050 programme to expand Welsh medium provision across Wales.  

Under our appointment we undertook the design of the MEP and Environmental Engineering Systems from RIBA work stage 2.

Through early engagement the building has gained maximum benefit from any available “passive” design measures offered by the development site. This was achieved by the completion of outline modelling and analysis that allowed us to advise the team on the most appropriate orientation of the building prior to the planning application.

In additional to the above detailed studies relating to energy and sustainability were carried out, inclusive of:

• A low zero carbon (LZC) study
• Dynamic thermal comfort analysis

These studies, linked with life cycle analysis, have ensured a rational approach to the consideration of design solutions when measured against both capital and operational expenditure.

This exercise led to design solutions that both maximised passive techniques whilst introducing sustainable and cost-effective renewables.

From the above we incorporated systems to deliver the Councils sustainability and energy targets such as:

• Photovoltaics
• Natural ventilation
• Intelligent lighting controls

The development also benefits from being provided with a life safety sprinkler system.

In delivering our designs we undertook Building Information Modelling (BIM) to level 2 in accordance with the agreed BIM execution plan (BEP).

The completed project was handed over on programme and within budget whilst achieving a BREEAM accreditation of “Excellent” and an EPC rating of ‘A’.