From the outset the client and project team mantra were ensuring minimal impacts on the environment at a micro and macro level.
Through extensive pre-planning and coordination using cloud-based collaborative software, only 62 tonnes of construction waste were produced, of which 96% was recycled and recovered. A construction project typically generates 11 tonnes/100m2 by industry standards; this project achieved just 2.4 tonnes per 100m2.
In planning for end of life, it’s estimated that 92% of the building fabric can be recycled.
The site-wide design meets the Schedule 3 SuDS regulations in Wales. A large attenuation basin at the rear of the development receives surface water flows before out-falling to the wider Baglan Energy Park surface water system.
The building includes water efficient sanitary ware, achieving a net water consumption of 7.51 m3 per person, per year; a 42% improvement compared to BREEAM 2018 baseline for a typical office building.
The project also achieved a 486% net gain on area-based biodiversity through enhanced habitats.
With the site containing a calcareous grassland area, a priority habitat in Wales under the Environment Act, detailed ecological work identified mitigation and enhancements to the site:
A transition area for the calcareous grassland was created to enhance biodiversity, inviting more species to the site
External lighting was reduced to a minimum to help bats transitioning and foraging through local wooded corridors
407m2 of wet woodland was created, significantly enhancing the local environment, which coupled with the energy positive nature of the building, will offset 36,000 kg CO2 annually
Throughout the project, the team regularly engaged with the surrounding community to ensure opportunities for work and development were provided for local people.
In total 380 training weeks were delivered during the project. It also provided 8 paid work experience opportunities for local students who were studying full-time construction courses at college. One work experience candidate was taken on following this experience and is now employed as a trainee engineer.
Hugh was previously unemployed and an army veteran, taken on as a Gate person at the Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Tirdeunaw project. As that project has completed the project team ensured Hugh’s continuation of employment by employing him on this project.
Sean joined the team from Cyfle to undertake a 2 week Technical Work Experience. Sean was the first of a series of college students who undertook work experience on this project in partnership with Cyfle.
Sam who previously carried out a 2 week work experience placement via Cyfle has recently been taken on by DLC as a trainee engineer.
Wayne joined the team from the Communities at Work initiative as the gateperson for the site.
