Manchester
Ambitious plans to redevelop Reedham House will create a modern, flagship office building in the St Mary’s Parsonage Strategic Regeneration Framework (SRF) area.
The vision for the SRF is to develop this currently underused area into a thriving and sustainable neighbourhood which maintains a distinctive character. The site also sits within the Parsonage Gardens Conservation Area based on the square of the same name – a tranquil urban garden surrounded by a mix of distinctive architecture.
Commercial Offices
circa £12 Million
Property Alliance Group
As part of their research and conservation efforts, Natural England are planning to build new research bases at the Lindisfarne and Lower Derwent Valley National Nature Reserves.
A collection of flood meadows, pastures and woodlands near York, Lower Derwent Valley National Nature Reserve supports a rich diversity of plant species and outstanding populations of breeding and wintering birds. Following a dramatic increase in visitor numbers and interest in volunteering since the pandemic, the existing facilities are no longer sufficient to meet their needs. The new base is planned to include a research laboratory, wildlife watch tower and educational space, providing more opportunities for visitor engagement.
A similar but smaller facility is planned for Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve, a unique and spectacular spot on the Northumberland Coast. An internationally important site for migrating birds, Natural England are working hard to preserve the landscape and habitats in this wild and beautiful spot.
Crookes Walker designed the MEP services for both research bases, which consist of laboratory and education spaces, plus dormitory accommodation, sanitary and kitchen facilities.
Both bases will be Net Zero Carbon in operation and achieve a minimum of a BREEAM “Excellent” rating.
The Net Zero Carbon design was achieved by minimizing energy demand, combined with a high level of renewable energy provision. Passivhaus U-values and air tightness ensure maximum building fabric efficiency and both bases feature extensive PV panels on the roofing, with solar thermal also providing hot water at Lower Derwent Valley. Both buildings feature ultra-quiet air source heat pumps and benefit from EV charging. Electrical supplies have been upgraded to facilitate more charging capacity in the future.
Once complete, the research bases will facilitate scientific research, education and community engagement at two sites of international significance.
In Operation
A
The re-development of Reedham House will create a new 13-storey office building with retail units on the ground floor, helping to open up this block to the surrounding area. The historic carriage works building will also be refurbished and incorporated into three new floors of office space. With sustainability at its core, the development will be net zero carbon in operation and achieve an EPC A rating.
Designed to reflect and enhance the character of the area, which contains a number of listed buildings, Reedham House will drive the development of this vibrant and sustainable new neighbourhood.
