Units A & C Stanton Harcourt Industrial Estate. New industrial units built by Keith Cook Construction

Keith Cook Construction is currently undertaking an exciting new project at Stanton Harcourt Industrial Estate, where two new units, Unit A and Unit C, are being developed. The combined area of these units is a substantial 2585 m2.

These buildings are designed to meet Grade A UPC Rating standards, ensuring high-quality construction and energy efficiency. Additionally, the project includes the installation of two large Solar Panel arrays, which will contribute to the sustainability of the development.

In line with environmental considerations, the regeneration of the external areas is also planned with local wildlife in mind, aiming to create a harmonious balance between industrial development and natural preservation.

Enabling Works.

This included a HV Cable diversion around the site perimeter.

Main Works.

Site strip and Reduce dig under watching brief.

Foundations, Steel Frame.

Cladded Roofing Panels (Supplied and installed by ISC System Ltd, Banbury)

Exploring the Benefits of Kingspan Quadcore Roof Panels for Modern Construction

In the realm of modern construction, efficiency and sustainability are paramount. The Kingspan Quadcore Roof Panel KS1000RW is a product that stands out in the market, offering a blend of durability, thermal performance, and ease of installation. This innovative solution is particularly suitable for new units requiring cladding roof sheets, providing a reliable and high-performing roofing system.

The KS1000RW panels are through-fix, trapezoidal profiled insulated roof panels, designed for applications with roof pitches of 4° or more after deflection. These panels come in a variety of lengths, ranging from standard (1.8 - 14.5 meters) to longer, non-standard options (up to 29.2 meters), accommodating a wide range of building sizes and specifications.

One of the most significant advantages of the Quadcore KS1000RW is its core thickness, which varies from 40mm to 150mm, providing different U-values and weights per square meter. This flexibility allows architects and builders to choose the appropriate thickness for their specific thermal performance requirements.

Moreover, the Quadcore insulation used in these panels has a thermal conductivity (λ) of 0.018 W/m.K, ensuring excellent thermal efficiency. This not only helps in maintaining a comfortable interior climate but also contributes to energy savings and reduced carbon footprint.

The panels are also certified for fire safety, with a reaction to fire classification of B-s1,d0 according to European standards, ensuring peace of mind for both builders and occupants.

For those looking to install these panels, the prefabricated nature of the KS1000RW means that the installation process is quicker than traditional roof structures. This results in an instantly wind and water-tight roof, significantly reducing construction risks and potentially lowering labor costs.

In conclusion, the Kingspan Quadcore KS1000RW Roof Panel is an exemplary choice for new construction projects, especially where efficient, sustainable, and safe roofing solutions are required. Its combination of thermal performance, fire safety, and ease of installation make it a go-to option for modern building envelopes.

Ground floor slab preparation.

Slab constructed with Type 1, sand blinding, Gas membrane, insulation and a 175mm concrete slab with mesh.

Concrete Slabs

The new concrete slabs are installed to FM2 tolerance. The FM2 tolerance is achieved through the use of a laser screed, a cutting-edge technology that ensures the concrete is placed with high accuracy. The laser screed helps in producing a level and uniform surface, which is crucial for warehouses, industrial sites, and any facility that requires a flat floor for operational purposes.

Masonry Works

The construction work on the retaining wall at the rear of the site has been completed, including the block work up to the first level.

Next, the scaffolding will be installed.

Wall Cladding.

The Units require an "A" EPC Rating for efficiency. The panel of choice was the Kingspan Quadcore AWP KS1000 MM panel. These advanced insulated panels are renowned for their superior thermal performance, fire resistance, and aesthetic appeal.

Final internal finishes for shell and core.

The building is to be handed over in a shell and core condition, which provides the incoming tenant with the flexibility to customize the interior spaces according to their specific needs and preferences. This approach allows tenants to design their work environments in a way that maximizes functionality and aesthetic appeal, ensuring that the space aligns perfectly with their operational requirements. The shell and core handover typically includes the basic structural elements such as the exterior walls, roof, and essential services, while leaving the interior layout open for tenant fit-out. This method not only enhances tenant satisfaction but also encourages a diverse range of businesses to occupy the space, fostering a vibrant community within the building.

The building is rated with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) score of 12, which corresponds to a category A rating. This commendable rating indicates that the building is highly energy-efficient, which is increasingly important in today’s environmentally conscious market. Achieving such a favorable EPC rating was made possible through the incorporation of several innovative and sustainable features. For instance, the installation of low power LED lighting significantly reduces energy consumption compared to traditional lighting solutions, thereby lowering electricity costs and minimizing the building's carbon footprint. Additionally, the integration of solar panels harnesses renewable energy, further enhancing the building's sustainability profile by generating clean energy that can be utilized for various operational needs. Furthermore, a thorough air test was conducted to ensure that the building meets stringent air quality standards, contributing to a healthier indoor environment for future occupants.

After the tenant fit-out is completed, a further EPC assessment will be required to ensure that the energy performance rating has been maintained or potentially improved. This subsequent evaluation is crucial as it helps to verify that the modifications made during the fit-out process do not negatively impact the building’s energy efficiency. It is essential for tenants to be aware that their choices in materials, appliances, and systems can influence the overall energy performance of the building. Therefore, maintaining the EPC rating post-fit-out is not only beneficial for compliance purposes but also enhances the long-term value of the property and supports the tenant's commitment to sustainability. By ensuring that the building continues to meet high energy performance standards, both the landlord and tenant can contribute to a more sustainable future while enjoying the economic advantages associated with energy efficiency.

## Importance of Ecology in Landscape Design

Ecology plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of sustainable environments, particularly in landscape design. Recognizing this, a series of recommendations were implemented to enhance the ecological value of the external areas. One of the key strategies involved the incorporation of deadwood piles and bug hotels, both of which serve as vital habitats for various species.

### Deadwood Piles

Deadwood piles are intentional accumulations of fallen branches, logs, and other woody debris that are left in place to decompose naturally. These piles provide essential habitats for a multitude of organisms, including insects, fungi, and small mammals. As the wood breaks down over time, it enriches the soil with nutrients, fostering a healthy ecosystem. The presence of deadwood also supports biodiversity by offering shelter and breeding grounds for species like beetles, woodpeckers, and other wildlife that rely on decaying wood for their lifecycle.

### Bug Hotels

In addition to deadwood piles, bug hotels were strategically placed throughout the landscape. These structures are designed to attract beneficial insects such as bees, ladybugs, and lacewings, which are crucial for pollination and pest control. Bug hotels provide a safe haven for these insects to nest and reproduce, helping to maintain balanced ecosystems. By encouraging the presence of these beneficial species, the landscape becomes more resilient and self-sustaining, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and artificial interventions.

### Soft Planting with Wildflower Seeds

To further enhance the ecological integrity of the external areas, soft planting techniques were employed, particularly through the sowing of wildflower seeds. This approach not only beautifies the landscape but also promotes local biodiversity. Wildflowers are essential for attracting pollinators and other wildlife, creating a vibrant and dynamic ecosystem. The diverse array of plants that can emerge from wildflower seed mixes provides food and habitat for a variety of insects and birds, contributing to a thriving ecological community.

### Conclusion

Incorporating these ecological elements into landscape design not only aligns with environmental recommendations but also fosters a deeper connection between the built environment and the natural world. By creating spaces that support wildlife through deadwood piles, bug hotels, and wildflower planting, we can cultivate landscapes that are not only visually appealing but also ecologically rich and sustainable. This holistic approach to design emphasizes the importance of integrating ecological principles into everyday environments, ensuring that they thrive for future generations.