Sustainable building Guide Retro fi tting existing buildings Contents This guide is only available electronically and the information will be updated regularly refl ecting the continually improving understanding of sustainable building
04 Summary 30 Water treatment
05 Introduction and drainage 30 Basic design principle 06 Design 30 Sustainability context 06 Basic design principle 31 Practical solutions 06 Sustainability context 32 Historic conservation issues 06 Practical solutions 34 Case study 07 Historic conservation issues 35 Useful links/references 09 Case study 10 Useful links/references 36 Materials 36 Basic design principle 13 Energy conservation 36 Sustainability context 13 Basic design principle 36 Practical solutions 13 Sustainability context 39 Historic conservation issues 13 Practical solutions 42 Case study 18 Historic conservation issues 43 Useful links/references 20 Case studies 22 Useful links/references 45 Waste 45 Basic design principle 25 Water conservation 45 Sustainability context 25 Basic design principle 46 Practical solutions 25 Sustainability context 47 Historic conservation issues 26 Practical solutions 47 Useful links/references 27 Historic conservation issues 48 Case study 28 Case study 29 Useful links/references 49 Pollution 49 Basic design principle 49 Sustainability context 49 Practical solutions 50 Historic conservation issues 51 Useful links/references 52 Case study
2 53 Maintenance 67 Access, equality 53 Basic design principle and diversity 53 Sustainability context 67 Basic design principle 53 Practical solutions 67 Sustainability context 54 Historic conservation issues 68 Practical solutions 55 Useful links/references 71 Historic conservation issues 56 Case study 72 Case study 73 Useful links/references 57 Ecology and biodiversity 74 Communities 57 Basic design principle 74 Basic design principle 57 Sustainability context 74 Sustainability context 58 Practical solutions 74 Practical solutions 59 Historic conservation issues 74 Historic conservation issues 60 Case study 75 Useful links/references 61 Useful links/references 76 Case study
62 Health and wellbeing 77 Glossary 62 Basic design principle 62 Sustainability context 62 Practical solutions 65 Historic conservation issues 65 Useful links/references 66 Case study
3 Summary The aim of this guide is to give advice on how to retro-fi t existing buildings in a green or sustainable way
This guide has been developed Each topic is divided into the following in partnership with the following sections for clarity of information: organisations: Cornwall Council • Basic design principle – to outline Cornwall Sustainable Building Trust (CSBT) the design aesthetic for that topic. • Sustainability context – to give a The aim of this guide is to give advice broad overview of the sustainability on how to retro-fi t existing buildings in issues associated with that topic. a green or sustainable way. The guide is designed to be used by all building • Practical solutions – to give advice occupants and developers from the about what can be done to tackle this individual householder to the larger topic within an existing building. scale developer who might be altering, • Historic conservation issues – extending or refurbishing an existing to give an overview of the historic development. The information in conservation issues associated with this guide can also help towards the that topic (as historic conservation is submission of a planning application. regarded as a cross-cutting theme This guide is only available electronically rather than a separate topic area). and the information will be updated • Case studies – any relevant case regularly refl ecting the continually studies as provided by CSBT. improving understanding of sustainable building. It is anticipated that this guide • Useful links / references – a signpost will be followed by another guide aimed at to further information. the development of new buildings. Words that are underlined in the text are The guide is divided into the following contained within the glossary at the end of topic areas: the document. Design There is also a Sustainability Checklist Energy Conservation which allows you to consider all the topics Water Conservation and this can be submitted in support of a Water Treatment & Drainage planning application. Materials Waste Pollution Maintenance Ecology & Biodiversity Health & Wellbeing Access, Equality & Diversity Communities
4 Introduction
If everyone in the world lived as most Europeans do, we would need three planets to support us. One Planet Living (Bio Regional/WWF, 2004)
Sustainable development can be The environmental impact posed by defi ned as, ‘development which buildings is perhaps one of the most meets the needs of the present signifi cant environmental challenges without compromising the ability of today. The built environment is
of future generations to meet their responsible for over 50% of global CO2 own needs.’ Brundtland Report for the emissions, 40% of solid waste generation World Commission on Environment and and 40% of global energy use. The Development, 1992. manufacture of construction materials and the demolition of buildings create Cornwall Council defi nes sustainable huge quantities of waste, the majority of construction as; “The design, which could be reused or recycled. The construction, maintenance, construction process can also impact on refurbishment and decommissioning key natural resources through emissions to of buildings and other infrastructure air, land and water, which can also aff ect that is fi t for purpose, resource biodiversity. The construction industry effi cient and will not compromise has a major impact on our environment the health of the environment or and our ability to maintain a sustainable the health of building occupants, economy. It is clear that we cannot meet builders, the general public or future our declared environmental objectives generations.” without dramatically reducing the impact of buildings and the construction Cornwall Council is committed to making infrastructure; we have to change the way Cornwall one of the UK’s most sustainable we design and build. places and helping achieve Cornwall’s Green Peninsula status. This guide The Government has set a target to reduce sets out the Council’s requirements in total UK carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by relation to the sustainable management, at least 80% on 1990 levels by 2050 and maintenance and refurbishment of all by at least 26% by 2020. Within this, the existing, development within Cornwall. Government has already set out its policy that new homes will be zero carbon from 2016, and an ambition that new schools, public sector non-domestic buildings and other non-domestic buildings will be zero cacarbon from 2016, 2018 and 2019 2050 respectively. The Government’sG recent Low Carbon Transition PlanPla details how these targets will be reached bbut success will be dependent on the extent tot which impacts 1990 of buildings can be reducedreduced.
The Government target is to reduce CO2 emissions by 80% by 2050 from 1990 levels 5 Design Time and eff ort spent researching and prioritising cost eff ective measures will deliver an easier, more sustainable and durable building
Basic design principle consideration is the most appropriate design to achieve sustainability. Any sustainable building project must be well designed. Time and eff ort spent Designing for sustainability is necessary to researching available methods and reduce reliance on fossil fuels and develop materials and prioritising cost eff ective lifestyles that do not deplete natural measures will deliver an easier build and resources. a more sustainable and durable building. Whatever their level of involvement, the This guide looks at sustainable design client should understand and insist on and there are many variable and sustainability best practice. interdependent factors, not least the perceived value of a particular design Sustainability context to consider. The case studies show the diversity of approaches to the challenge of New homes in the UK are built to a designing for sustainability in Cornwall. relatively good standard of energy performance, and future targets for “Zero Carbon” homes are motivating forward- Practical solutions looking developers to go beyond current Be Informed regulations. Individuals are developing Because sustainable design is not yet high performance, low carbon buildings a mainstream practice there are fewer and taking many varied approaches to established standards. Knowledge of sustainability. sustainability issues will inform decisions in critical areas of the project. Even if a Much of the housing designer is employed who specialises in stock in Cornwall low impact buildings there will still be is built before decisions to be made which will aff ect Individuals are regulations demanded overall sustainability. developing high good energy performance, low effi ciency and some Much has been written about sustainable buildings are listed to design and there are many sources carbon buildings preserve the character of information on the internet; each of a historically topic in this guide has a list of websites important area. When a building is which contain relevant information. listed the options for improving the Government, community and not for performance of the building are restricted; profi t organisations will provide impartial innovative approaches are required to information, and architects who specialise increase performance whilst maintaining in sustainability will provide proven character. If a building is not listed or sustainable designs. within a conservation area, the main
6 One of the best ways to promote sustainability is to support sustainable businesses
Insist on Sustainable Design Specify Sustainable materials When renovating, redeveloping or When asking for quotes, specify “green” building it is critical to design with products. Ask contractors about the consideration for sustainability. Builders environmental performance of products or and designers, like most people, like services being off ered and score answers what they are familiar with. Unfortunately as part of the quality evaluation. This traditional methods may not be the most will provide an incentive for contractors sustainable, therefore it is important to to off er less environmentally harmful take a fresh look at building design. products and services.
Ask contractors about their own Key areas to be aware of are: environmental management systems The life cycle impact of all materials and sustainability practices and give used. Is a material renewable or preference to those who demonstrate recyclable? commitment to reducing their impact. One of the best ways to promote A material, design or technology’s sustainability is to support sustainable energy performance. Is there a more businesses. effi cient option? Space heating and hot water Historic conservation consume the majority of energy issues in a home. Is it possible to reduce Preserving historic character is also a demand by insulating, draught design issue and the importance of local proofi ng and fi tting low fl ow taps history and heritage should always be an and showers? important consideration. Architectural How a building can make use of history is a resource which sustains natural light. Does the design make communities through cultural enrichment, effi cient use of heat and light from and the Cornish economy by attracting the sun? visitors.
Durability of materials and designs. Some alterations to improve energy How often will building elements effi ciency on historic properties, such as need maintenance or replacement? solar panels explain or add to glossary both solar panels and photovoltaics or Lifetime homes: Is a design suitable photovoltaic units, may require planning for the needs of all potential permission or listed building consent. occupants, or if the needs of the For guidance on whether such proposals current occupants change? would be acceptable it is always advisable Long term fi nancial implications of to consult your local Conservation Offi cer. design. Will a higher initial cost result in lower operational costs? Photovoltaics and solar panels with their associated equipment may not be suitable on all historic buildings as they can often 7 be visually imposing. Photovoltaic tiles cases it would be more appropriate to that replicate conventional roofi ng slate install boilers outside of the main building, and recessed solar panels are available, but perhaps in an existing shed, garage or their suitability should be judged on a case out-building. A stove system works well by case basis. in a historic building and can often use an existing chimney (although it may have to In some circumstances standard be lined). equipment can be sited in locations where it is visually unobtrusive such as inner Repairing rather than replacing windows roof slopes, rear elevations, outbuildings, on refurbishments other than a change garages and even as stand alone units in of use is preferable and does not have gardens. Initial justifi cation for installations to comply with Part L of the Building should be made to ensure that they will Regulations. There is some fl exibility provide benefi ts to the homeowner and with the Building regulations regarding that performance is not impaired through replacement windows. It can sometimes incorrect orientation, slope, shade and be possible to increase insulation maintenance and cleaning diffi culties. elsewhere to compensate for retention of single glazed windows in listed buildings. Use of hydro power off ers the opportunity of enhancing the character of some Draught-proofi ng, secondary glazing historic buildings. Reinstating and and internal timber shutters can all be updating the original power source of used to improve the energy and acustic old mills and former mill sites could add performance of windows in traditional to their historic appeal and make them buildings while retaining original self-sustaining. Sensitive site selection and character. Historic buildings are often careful design measures are required to over-ventilated so draught proofi ng is minimise the visual impact on the building one of the best and least intrusive ways of and the landscape. Where there is a improving comfort and reducing heat loss. potential hydro resource an Environmental Impact Assessment must consider the Chimneys are visually important on most appropriate system to utilise the historic buildings and traditionally resource, minimising detrimental eff ects provided a means of dispersing internal on the aquatic fl ora and fauna. water vapour and reducing condensation. They should be retained and reused Heat pumps can be used where there if possible, or at least vented with a is an appropriate resource from air, controllable shutter fi tted. ground or water. The physical and visual impacts need to be considered in all cases. Installation of ground source heat pumps units involves ground disturbance. Before works begin the implications for any archaeology at the site should be assessed. Contact Cornwall Council Historic Environment Service for further advice.
Biomass boilers should be appropriately sized for the property and for the occupants’ heating needs. There is a need to sensitively locate components (fuel store, hot water cylinder and fl ue). In many
8 Case study Fox Park
Scale of development A market gardeners cottage from the 1920s, this building has been re-built as a low impact two bedroom holiday cottage Small with an extension to the rear. A high degree of comfort and specifi cation has been achieved within solid environmental Type of development criteria. Holiday Cottage Building Works The original walls had additional staggered framing added to the outside and Sustainability features the extension was built, also using double staggered framing to reduce cold bridging. To preserve the original character the building is clad with PVC free Design corrugated steel. Internal fi nishes are preserved where possible and walls are Energy insulated with 200mm Warmcell insulation. Timber is FSC certifi ed and treated with Probor, a less toxic form of insecticide, and GRP is substituted for lead. The Biodiversity chimney was rebuilt with recycled bricks fi xed with lime mortar. Local materials were used where possible, and much of the original materials were reused Water Conservation and recycled on site. The total non-recyclable waste produced by the building works fi lled just one standard skip. Health & Wellbeing Energy Effi ciency Materials The roof is insulated with 140mm of Thermapitch foam board the fl oor has Maintenance 140mm of Warmcell. Windows are high performance wood-frame double glazed units which are larger than original to increase natural light and solar Waste gain. All joints are taped to increase airtightness.The chimney and internal block wall provide thermal mass, along with a slate fl oor in the glazed porch. Pollution When additional space heating is required, the log stove burns wood recovered from local hedgerows. Electrical demand is kept to a minimum with energy Features effi cient appliances, low energy lighting and solar thermal water heating. Because the cottage is not continuously inhabited the PV roof generates PV roof with 134 Siemens Sunslates double the required amount of electricity. providing 1.6 kW installed capacity. Environment Heating by wood burning stove and A small orchard planted with local varieties of apple and cherry preserves solar thermal system. the historic context of the building. Wherever possible, low impact materials Materials thoroughly researched and have been used and materials have been recycled and re-used. Due to the
chosen for minimum environmental clean electricity exported to the grid, this building off sets CO2 emissions from impact and high performance. conventional electrical generation.
See CSBT: www.csbt.org.uk
9 Useful links / references Stern review: the economics of climate change, HM Treasury – Researching historic buildings in the British www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/ Isles - www.buildinghistory.org Independent_Reviews/independent_ reviews_index.cfm BRE - www.bre.co.uk World Heritage Centre 2007: Climate Energy Saving Trust – Change and World Heritage.World www.energysavingtrust.org.uk Heritage Reports No. 22. Paris: UNESCO Lifetime Homes - www.unesco.org/en/climatechange www.lifetimehomes.org.uk Yates,T. 2006: Sustainable Refurbishment Code for Sustainable Homes - of Victorian Housing – Guidance, www.bre.co.uk/page.jsp?id=847 Assessment Method and Case Studies. Watford: Buildings Research Establishment Code for sustainable homes, Communities Trust and Local Government - www.brebookshop.com/details. www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/ jsp?id=286929 code_for_sust_homes.pdf Baker, P 2008: In situ U-value McEvoy, D, Lindley, S and Handley, J 2006: measurements in traditional buildings – ‘Adaptation and mitigation in urban areas: preliminary results. Published byTechnical synergies and confl icts’, Proceedings of Conservation Group, Historic Scotland. the Institution of Civil Engineers, Municipal www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/u-value_ Engineer, 159, 185-191. measurements_traditional_buildings. www.sed.manchester.ac.uk/research/ pdf cure/research/asccue/publications.htm Wheatley, C 2008: Thermal mass RIBA 2007b: Low Carbon Design Tools. in traditional buildings. Integrated London: Royal Institute of British Architects Environmental Solutions Limited. and Commission for Architecture and the www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/ Built Environment. largetext/craig_wheatley_thermal_ www.uonbi.ac.ke/departments/arch- mass_in_traditional_buildings.pdf build-sci/links/RIBA.htm UK Green Building Council, 2008: Low carbon existing homes www.ukgbc.org/site/document/ download/?document_id=370
10 Local Listings Lilly Lewarne Practice Architect ARCO2 Architect www.lillylewarne.co.uk [email protected] www.arco2.co.uk [email protected] No. 1 Poltisco Wharf, Malpas Road, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 1QH ARCO2 House, Boundary Road, Dunmere, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 2RX Tel: 01872 261000 Tel: 01208 72100 Charles Green Design Architect Arco Studios Ltd Architect www.charlesgreendesign.co.uk [email protected] www.arcostudios.net 1 Station Road, Redruth 73 Causewayhead, Penzance Cornwall TR15 2AD Cornwall, TR18 2SR Tel: 01209 216964 Tel: 01736 350999 Purl Design Atelier 3 Architect Architect www.purl-design.com www.atelier3.co.uk Woodmill Farm, Prideaux Road, St Blazey, [email protected] Cornwall, PL24 2SR Hamilton House, The Platt, Wadebridge, Tel: 01726 812212 Cornwall, PL27 7AD Tel: 01208 895536 Innes Architects Architect Pioneer Environmental Building Co www.innesarchitects.co.uk Design and Build Timber Frame [email protected] www.pioneerebc.co.uk Offi ce 2, Hamilton House, The Platt, [email protected] Wadebridge, Cornwall, PL27 7AD Chapel Hill, Porthtowan, Truro Tel: 01208 813131 Cornwall, TR4 8HL Tel: 01209 891500 ALDAS Pressure Testing and Consultancy Ecohouse Ltd Trelay Farm, St Genny’s, Bude, EX23 0NJ Design and Build Tel: 01840 230 228 www.theecohouse.co.uk [email protected] Parkes Lees Architects Wheal Kitty Studios, Wheal Kitty, St Agnes, Architect, Historic Building Refurbishment Cornwall, TR5 0RD www.parkeslees.co.uk Tel: 01872 554014 [email protected] 4 Broad Street, Launceston CAD Architects Cornwall, PL15 8AD Architect Tel: 01566 772035 www.cadarchitects.co.uk [email protected] Build Art St Mary’s House, Commercial Road, Design and Build using Natural Materials Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 8AG www.build-art.co.uk Tel: 01326 371344 [email protected] Near Helston, Cornwall Tel: 01326 221339
11 RLT Built Environment Ltd Architect www.rltarchitects.co.uk [email protected] The Old Stables, Chyandour Lane, Penzance, Cornwall TR18 3LP Tel: 01736 367646
Stride Treglown Architects, Access Consultancy www.stridetreglown.co.uk [email protected] Stride Treglown, 55 Lemon Street Truro, TR1 2PE Tel: 01872 241 300
pdp Green Consulting Ltd Architects, Stormwater Systems, Environmental Materials Specifi cation www.pdpgreen.co.uk [email protected] Offi ce 3, Calenick House, Truro Technology Park, Heron Way, Truro, TR1 2XN Tel: 01872 265400
12 Save energy, reduce CO2 Energy emissions, save money. conservation
Basic design principle Emissions targets are designed to reduce the eff ects of climate change on our Reduce energy use and CO emissions 2 environment. Reduced energy demand through changing habits, designing has further benefi ts including reduced effi cient buildings and using renewable costs to consumers and increased security energy. of supply, where the UK is less reliant on imported fuel. Save energy, reduce CO2 emissions, save money. Practical solutions
Sustainability context Reduction of CO2 emissions is best achieved by following the energy Modern lifestyles are energy intensive management hierarchy: and currently the majority of this energy is provided by fossil fuels. It has been Change behaviour to reduce demand: established that CO emissions from fossil 2 Actively manage energy consumption. fuels is contributing to climate change This approach will reduce CO2 emissions which is predicted to have potentially and energy bills at no cost. devastating eff ects. Additionally fossil fuels are a fi nite resource under increasing Invest in energy effi ciency: Energy demand, a situation that will lead to effi cient technologies and buildings will signifi cant price increases unless demand save money and reduce the impact of can be reduced to a sustainable level. future price increases. When building or refurbishing consider the cost vs. energy In the UK domestic energy use contributes saving performance of potential measures to around 30% of UK CO emissions. 2 and prioritise the most eff ective solutions Of this, 60% is from space heating and (see Materials section). another 20% is from hot water. There is potential for a signifi cant reduction of CO2 Use renewable sources of energy: emissions from UK buildings, helping to Off set fossil fuel use by investing in meet UK, EU and global emissions targets. renewable energy technologies. Although there is a signifi cant capital cost there will be ongoing savings supplemented by government incentives and protection
from energy price increases as well as CO2 savings.
30% domestic energy use share of UK
CO2 emissions 13 Reducing hot water Heating water is also energy intensive and 0 boilers may be set too high to heat water to 60 c saves energy above the recommended safe minimum and reduces the risk of 60°C. Reducing hot water temperature of scalding to 60°C saves energy and reduces risk of burns and scalding. Taking shorter, cooler showers and washing laundry at lower temperatures is also an eff ective way 0 to save energy. Aerating taps, low fl ow 60 c shower heads and well insulated pipes can help to reduce hot water consumption.
Reducing demand Community Energy Plus, Cornwall’s local In any situation where electricity is used or energy advice centre, can provide free fuel is burnt for heating or hot water the ‘powerdown’ switches. These are plug challenge is to use less. Is the use of energy socket adaptors that switch off the supply necessary? If it is, how can it be used most to all outlets once the primary demand effi ciently? is switched off . When the main device such as a computer is turned off it will The largest single use of energy in the automatically switch off the other plugs home is space heating; heating to a lower supplying power to printers, scanners etc. temperature can achieve signifi cant savings and active management of the To enable better understanding of central heating system, doing things like electricity use, smart meters are available switching off radiators in unused rooms, which show real time energy use. Studies will further reduce energy use. Demand have shown that where these are installed, can also be reduced by maximising homeowners reduce their energy use daylight coming into the building to through better awareness of how much is provide natural heating, closing windows being used. It is likely that smart meters before heat is lost and using curtains to will be installed throughout the UK by reduce heat loss through glazing. 2020.
14 Careful detailing of insulation design to minimise gaps and cold bridging is important to achieve maximum benefi t.
Airtightness and ventilation Natural insulation Once air is warmed it is important to keep that heat it in the building. It is should be given critical to achieve good draught-proofi ng preference to reduce otherwise heat will be lost very quickly. To environmental ensure a high standard a building needs to be designed for airtightness and impact constructed with attention to detail. Doors and windows should have fi ne tolerances and service penetrations should be grouped together and properly sealed.
Once a high level of airtightness is Energy effi ciency achieved it will be necessary to provide ventilation. Where a ventilation system Appliances is installed it is important that it has heat Replacement appliances should be at least recovery, where up to 90% of the heat is A rated, used in energy saving mode and transferred to the fresh incoming air. This switched off when not in use. type of system is known as mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) Insulation when the system is powered. Passive Insulation is the most important of all systems which rely on the eff ect of energy conservation measures. For the external air movement are also available. average house the amount of heat lost All buildings must have adequate through its fabric can be halved through ventilation to maintain a healthy internal good insulation. As well as the obvious environment. This can be achieved by environmental benefi t, good insulation opening windows or installing trickle vents leads to increased comfort with less if mechanical ventilation is not installed. temperature variation. With increasing temperatures due to Natural insulation should be given climate change, keeping cool will become preference to reduce environmental more important and ventilation will impact, although if a less environmentally need to be designed to enable both the friendly product will perform better it building fabric and occupants to receive could have a lower life-cycle impact (see fresh air. Materials section).
Grants for cavity wall and loft insulation Passive solar design are available in many areas. The Energy A layout which takes advantage of natural Saving Trust website has a page that will heat and light from the sun while avoiding search for all grants and off ers available in overheating and uses air movement any UK postcode. for ventilation can reduce the need for artifi cial light, heat, cooling and ventilation. Windows can be a major source of heat loss. Double or triple glazing should be Passive solar design maximises glazing to specifi ed, ideally in high performance the south and minimises it on north facing timber frames. Other framing material can areas to take advantage of the natural deliver high performance at lower cost, heat and light from the sun, and reduce but with increased environmental impact heat loss through windows which do not (see Materials section). provide benefi t. 15 Where possible, use thermally dense consumption, natural light also off ers material inside the building envelope. occupants a more pleasant living or Thermal mass absorbs heat during working environment. warm periods and releases heat when the temperature drops; this allows Manufactured lighting natural solar gain to be used at night and Low energy lighting should be used. maintains a more constant temperature. Quality low energy lighting delivers Thermally dense materials include good light and signifi cant energy and concrete, brick, masonry and water. maintenance savings. In transitional spaces such as stairs and corridors motion The most frequently used rooms, requiring sensitive lighting is an eff ective way to most heating should be on the south minimise waste and improve safety. side of the dwelling. Rooms used less often or those that will not benefi t from Landscape sunlight should be on the north part of the Existing trees and new landscape planting building. should be taken into account when site planning for passive solar energy. Natural light Vegetation and landform can complement Natural daylighting is the controlled passive solar design, reducing heat loss entry of natural light into a building by providing shelter. However, if poorly through windows, skylights, atria, and positioned in relation to buildings tall other building envelope components. vegetation will reduce solar gain by A properly designed daylighting system overshadowing and obstructing sunlight. should achieve good daylighting factors Trees that will grow above the shadow by distributing it evenly and by avoiding line should be deciduous so they allow glare and overheating. Not only does sunlight to pass through at a low angle in this signifi cantly reduce overall energy winter and provide benefi cial shading in summer. 16 Cooling and preventing maintenance; a chip or pellet boiler with excessive solar gain automatic feed from the storage area will only require occasional ash removal. Some With predicted increases in summer models of wood burner are approved for temperatures building design will need use in Smoke Control Areas. to ensure there is adequate cooling to prevent uncomfortable internal Solar thermal systems are a tried and temperatures. As a fi rst priority, measures tested way of heating water, although an such as shutters or brise-soleil are simple on-demand source of heat will also be and eff ective in preventing excessive solar required at times when there is insuffi cient gain, especially on extensively glazed heat from the sun. A well designed system solar-orientated elevations. in Cornwall can provide up to 70% of annual hot water demand. Energy effi cient technology Energy effi cient appliances should be Heat pumps are not strictly renewable chosen where appropriate, in particular unless powered by renewably generated energy and water effi cient white goods. electricity. However they do provide Appliances providing heat, lighting approximately three to four units of heat and other essential services are major for every unit of electricity consumed. consumers of energy; the careful choice This ratio is known as the coeffi cient of of appliances can reduce energy demand performance (COP) and it means that they and costs signifi cantly. are much more effi cient than an electric fi re or an immersion heater. A heat pump Environmental control systems for heating, transfers diverse heat from one place to lighting and ventilation should be as concentrated heat in another, typically the simple as possible; buildable, controllable ground (Ground Source Heat Pump) or the and understandable. Designers or air (Air Source Heat Pump) and sometimes landlords should take steps to ensure that from water. Heat pumps are most eff ective building occupiers are able to operate when combined with an underfl oor installed systems eff ectively by providing a heating system. Heat pumps can be slow simple user’s guide. to respond so they are better suited to buildings with a predictable or steady heat Renewable energy demand. Contact Community Energy Where possible, use renewable sources Plus for further information. of energy to reduce carbon emissions. Financial incentives for domestic and small On-site renewable electricity is usually scale electricity generation are available generated by solar photovoltaic systems through the UK Government’s Feed-in or small wind turbines. Although wind Tariff (FIT) scheme. With the majority of turbines are cheaper for any given carbon emissions resulting from heating, installed capacity they are harder to get renewable heat sources should be utilised planning permission for. They should as the most eff ective method of emission only be considered where there is a high reduction. average wind speed and no obstruction from buildings or other structures which When renewable systems are will cause turbulence, resulting in reduced supplemented by fossil fuels or grid output and reliability. Solar photovoltaic electricity, control systems should always systems only require an un-shaded south prioritise the renewable technology when facing roof. Where there is a suitable it is available. watercourse a micro-hydro system may deliver the most cost eff ective renewable Wood fuel is becoming more popular electricity. after many years of displacement by fossil fuels. Modern wood stoves and boilers Refer to Cornwall Council’s Renewable are available to burn logs, wood chips and Energy SPD for further information. pellets. They are effi cient, clean and low 17 Historic conservation issues information on how reusing old buildings In considering the sustainability of can cut carbon emissions. The report buildings, it is important to remember concludes that refurbished houses can that existing buildings embody energy be just as effi cient as new homes. The expended in the manufacture of materials Sustainable Energy Academy has the and construction. Demolishing them “Old Homes – Super Homes” scheme of wastes that embodied energy whilst exemplar refurbishments on its website. consuming yet more. Some buildings constructed in the past from traditional Sensitive and innovative approaches materials perform well in terms of energy are required to upgrade listed and effi ciency if well maintained; these conservation buildings in Cornwall. buildings may also add strong local These building are usually of solid wall identity and historic character to individual construction and external insulation settlements and areas of Cornwall. cannot be used where the character of the building will be altered. The only option Planning needs to seek solutions that is internal insulation which will reduce combine the unique essence of places the internal space and be less eff ective. with current and future needs. The Restrictions on material and design of capacity of traditional buildings to absorb window frames will also lead to expensive changes that will improve their energy custom made frames or the retention of effi ciency must be part of the equation.. original single glazed windows. Where This is not a simple challenge, but one original windows are retained every eff ort that requires understanding of sense of should be made to ensure a good fi t and place as well as innovative solutions to seal. present and future energy requirements. Cornwall has a long and successful record Planning regulations restrict the for innovation: getting the equation right installation of roof mounted renewable will sustain the Cornishness of our places, energy systems in conservation areas or a signifi cant driver in the economy of the on listed buildings, contact the planning county and its identity. department of Cornwall Council for current advice. The Empty Homes Agency report “New Tricks with Old Bricks” provides useful Some buildings constructed in the past from traditional materials perform well in terms of energy effi ciency if well maintained
18 Improving overall insulation, especially to In addition to minimising heat top fl oor ceilings is one of the easiest and loss there are many other ways cheapest means of improving a building’s to reduce energy consumption energy effi ciency. Relatively thick layers of in the home: insulation will not cause problems if they are installed carefully and if the materials • Install a more fuel-effi cient are compatible with the performance boiler of older buildings. If you already have some insulation you could simply add • Have heating appliances to what is already there although care is serviced annually by a licensed needed to retain air fl ow to loft spaces. technician (CORGI-registered in Insulating internal and external walls could the case of gas appliances) be damaging in some cases and careful • Install heating controls, detailing will be required. For further including thermostatic radiator advice contact your local conservation valves and a boiler timer offi cer. • Avoid over-heating, and use thermostats to control room temperature rather than opening windows to let heat out • Insulate pipework and hot- water cylinders • Fit photocells or timers to external lights • Change incandescent lamps to energy-effi cient versions
19 Case study Hillside Cottage
Scale of development A low energy refurbishment of a cob house c.1800 with subsequent stone and block extensions. Innovative Small techniques have been utilised to achieve high performance in this diffi cult to insulate historic building. Type of development Single dwelling Construction and materials The original stone and cob structure was internally insulated and the block extension cavity insulated. The material selection was varied and innovative Sustainability features including the use of thin fi lm material in window reveals. Design Where possible materials from were re-used on site or acquired from a local reclamation yard for re-use in the development. Energy Energy effi cient design and technology Water conservation The ground fl oor is insulated under the slab, along with non insulated internal cob walls, provides thermal mass in the structure. The space heating is Water treatment & discharge delivered by an underfl oor system, with heat provided by a Calorex 500 dual temperature heat pump. A wood burner is installed as a secondary source of Health and wellbeing space heating. Materials The house is fully double glazed; the conservatory is designed to work as an air-lock to preserve the internal environment and to utilise solar gain. An MVHR system is utilised to retain heat while providing adequate ventilation. Features The roofi ng is insulated with 400mm of Rockwool, preventing heat loss through the ceiling and compensating for the performance restrictions of the Retrofi t of high performance wall construction. materials and technology to an historic building. Energy savings The use of energy effi cient technology, along with increased insulation Innovative design to maximise has a signifi cant eff ect upon the heating requirements of the house. When performance. compared to the previous heating requirement of 12kW (at 22 degrees Use of reclaimed and reused diff erence), the new fi gure is reduced by 7kW, resulting in a maximum space materials. heating requirement of just 5kW.
See CSBT: www.csbt.org.uk
20 Case study Tol-Pedn-Deu
Scale of development Designed by a renewable energy consultant to be his own home, this ‘passive-solar’ house near Wadebridge has almost Small no heating requirements and in 2005 won the Regen South West Green Energy Award for Best Home Renewable Energy Type of development Instalation. Single dwelling Construction and materials Built with readily available ‘traditional’ materials such as dense concrete block. Sustainability features Very high levels of insulation: triple skin walls have 300mm Styrofoam (u-value Design = 0.08W/m2K); roof has 350mm Styrofoam (u-value = 0.07W/m2K) Windows are triple glazed. Energy Excellent levels of air-tightness. Water conservation Energy effi cient design Health and wellbeing Space heating is achieved by direct solar gain through a south-facing Maintenance conservatory and solar roof. The warmed air is circulated through the house by natural convection and under suspended concrete fl oors with the aid of thermostatically controlled low-energy fans. Heat is absorbed by the dense concrete construction and stored for use when the sun is not shining. Features A temperature of 21 degrees Celsius is maintained without the need for conventional heating systems. In exceptional weather conditions a portable Orientated for maximum solar gain electric radiator can be brought into use. Very high levels of insulation and Energy saving technology air-tightness Ventilation heat losses are minimised through draught-proofi ng and a Vent- MVHR Axia HRE275 MVHR unit. Very low energy use 80% of the property’s hot water needs are met by the array of 20 Thermomax evacuated heating tubes. Solar-thermal hot water Build costs were similar to those for a conventional building of the same See CSBT: www.csbt.org.uk size Award-winning.
21 Useful links / references English Heritage forthcoming 2008a: Micro-generation in the Historic Energy Saving Trust - Environment. London: English Heritage www.energysavingtrust.org.uk (Product Code 51391) http://Microgeneration. Department of Energy and Climate pdf?1250844716 Change - www.decc.gov.uk English Heritage 2007c: Energy Community Energy Plus - Conservation in Traditional Buildings. www.cep.org.uk London: English Heritage (Product Sustainable Energy Academy - Code 51367)- good basic guidance with www.sustainable-energyacademy. illustrations org.uk www.helm.org.uk/upload/ pdf/89410-EnergyConservation1. Low Carbon Buildings Programme - pdf?1247645803 www.lowcarbonbuildings.org.uk/home English Heritage 2007d: Cutting Down on Renewable Energy Association - Carbon: Improving the Energy Effi ciency www.r-e-a.net of Historic Buildings. Summary of Government Historic Estates Unit Annual Cornwall Council - Seminar, Building Research Establishment, www.cornwall.gov.uk Garston, 9 October 2007 www.helm.org.uk/upload/pdf/BRE- The Empty Homes Agency: New Tricks seminar.pdf?1250845158 with Old Bricks: www.emptyhomes.com/documents/ English Heritage 2007e: Understanding publications/reports/New%20 SAP Ratings for Historic and Traditional Tricks%20With%20Old%20Bricks%20 Homes: English Heritage Interim Guidance. -%20fi nal%2012-03-081.pdf London: English Heritage www.helm.org.uk/upload/pdf/SAP_ English Heritage advice for Domestic ratings.pdf?1250845118 Energy Assessors www.helm.org.uk/upload/pdf/ Energy Performance Certifi cates for EH_Web_Advice_on_DEAs_Dec_07_ Historic and Traditional Homes SE.pdf2.pdf?1247645686 www.helm.org.uk/upload/pdf/ EH_Web_Advice_on_EPCs_Dec_07_ English Heritage 2005a: Wind Energy and SE.pdf2.pdf?1247645803 the Historic Environment. London: English Heritage (Product Code 51099) 2007 Meeting the energy challenge: a www.helm.org.uk/upload/pdf/Wind_ White Paper on energy, Department of Energy_%28fi nal%29.pdf?1250844864 Trade & Industry www.dti.gov.uk/energy/whitepaper/ English Heritage 2006a: Biomass Energy page39534.html and the Historic Environment. London: English Heritage (Product Code 51100) BERR 2007: Draft Strategy for Sustainable www.helm.org.uk/upload/pdf/ Construction: A Consultation Paper Biomass-Energy.pdf?1247645803 London: Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform English Heritage 2007a: Micro Wind www.berr.gov.uk/fi les/fi le40641.pdf Generation and Traditional Buildings. London: English Heritage (Product Code Building a greener future, Communities 51366) and Local Government www.helm.org.uk/upload/pdf/69945- www.communities.gov.uk/ MicroWind1.pdf?1250844539 publications/planningandbuilding/ building-a-greener 22 Building Regulations and Historic Halliday, S 2009: Indoor Air Quality and Buildings - Balancing the needs for energy Energy Effi ciency in Traditional Buildings. conservation with those of building Technical Conservation Group, Historic conservation: an Interim Guidance Note on Scotland. the application of Part www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/ www.helm.org.uk/upload/pdf/ign_ traditional-buildings-air-quality- partl_buildingregs.pdf?1247645803 energy-effi ciency.pdf
Cassar, M 2005: Climate Change and the UK Climate Impacts Programme Historic Environment. London: University (UKCIP) Oxford University Centre for College London, Centre for Sustainable the Environment Heritage Dyson Perrins Building, South Parks Road www.helm.org.uk/upload/pdf/ Oxford OX1 3QY Climate-change.pdf?1247645803 Tel: 01865 285717 www.ukcip.org.uk Code for sustainable homes, Communities and Local Government Energy Saving Trust www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/ 21 Dartmouth Street code_for_sust_homes.pdf London SW1H 9BP Tel: 020 7222 0101 Baker, P 2008: Improving the Thermal www.energysavingtrust.org.uk Performance of Traditional Windows. Glasgow Caledonian University, for Historic Historic Environment, Local Scotland. Management (HELM) http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/ English Heritage thermal-windows.pdf#xml=http:// 1 Waterhouse Square, 138-142 Holborn web1:10700/texis/webinator/ London EC1N 2ST pubssearch/pdfhi.txt?pr=publication Tel: 020 7973 3000 s&prox=page&rorder=500&rprox=50 www.helm.org.uk 0&rdfreq=500&rwfreq=500&rlead=5 00&rdepth=0&sufs=0&order=r&id=4 Department for Communities and a89fda47 Local Government Eland House, Bressenden Place Mitchell, D 2008: INFORM Guide - Energy London SW1E 5DU Effi ciency. Published by Technical Tel: 020 7944 4400 Conservation Group, Historic Scotland. www.communities.gov.uk www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/ inform_guide_-_energy_effi ciency.pdf English Heritage 1 Waterhouse Square, 138-142 Holborn Jenkins, D 2008: Energy Modelling in London EC1N 2ST Traditional Scottish Houses (EMITSH) Tel: 020 7973 3000 Heriot-Watt University analysis of potential www.english-heritage.org.uk
CO2 savings of building variants. Published by Technical Conservation Group, Historic Insulation And Draught-Proofi ng Scotland. National Insulation Association www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/ 2 Vimy Court, Vimy Road energy-modelling-scottish-houses. Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 1FG pdf Tel: 01525 383313 www.nationalinsulationassociation.org.uk Technical Conservation Group, Historic Scotland, 2009: Energy Modelling of a Mid 19th Century Villa. www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/ energy-modelling-mid19th-century- villa.pdf 23 Local Listings Community Energy Plus Itsolar Energy Effi ciency Advice Renewable Energy www.cep.org.uk www.itsolar.co.uk [email protected] [email protected] South Crofty House, 1 South Crofty, Itsolar Ltd, Lee Haven, Feliskirk Lane, Tolvaddon Energy Park, Camborne, Marazion, Cornwall, TR17 0HA Cornwall TR14 OHX Tel: 01736 710372 Tel: 01209 614 975 Solcentric Ltd Cornwall Council Renewable Energy Green Cornwall Team www.solcentric.co.uk Tel: 0300 1234 100 Devoran Boatyard, Devoran, Truro, www.cornwall.gov.uk Cornwall, TR3 6PQ Tel: 01872 865662 Cornwall Council Planning Department Plug Into the Sun Tel: 0300 1234 100 Renewable Energy www.cornwall.gov.uk www.plugintothesun.co.uk [email protected] South West Air Energy Unit 5E, Long Rock Industrial Estate, Pressure Testing Penzance, TR20 8HX www.sw-airenergy.co.uk Tel: 0844 800 9512 [email protected] Tel: 01872 275186 Natural Generation Renewable Energy Independent Energy www.naturalgen.co.uk Renewable Energy [email protected] www.solarpanelcornwall.com 35 Rosemundy, St. Agnes [email protected] Cornwall, TR5 0UD Trenowin Farm, Ludgvan, Tel: 01872 554144 PenzanceCornwallTR20 8BL Tel: 01736 740955
Capture Energy Renewable Energy www.capture-energy.co.uk [email protected] Capture Energy Ltd. Unit C2, Pool Business Park, Dudnance Lane, Pool Cornwall, TR15 3QW Tel: 01209 716 861
24 Water conservation The effi cient use of all water resources must be an early consideration in the design
Basic design principle The predicted eff ects of climate change in the South West over the next 50 years The effi cient use of all water resources include sunnier, warmer, longer summers. must be an early consideration in Summer rainfall is expected to decrease the design of all building in Cornwall. by 30-40% and more extreme weather Development proposals should consider patterns are predicted, increasing the using sustainable water sources and frequency of exceptionally ‘dry’ summers. effi cient use of all water resources for both The eff ects of climate change are internal and external water consumption. anticipated to account for an additional 1-2% increase in household demand for Sustainability context water and up to 20% increase in demand Water consumption in the South West for other uses, such as agriculture (See has grown signifi cantly in recent years. Environment Agency Water Resources Domestic water consumption in the region Strategy). Warmer summers may also lead equates to an average of 150 litres per to a greater demand through increased person per day. Forthcoming legislation visitor pressure. will set a standard of between 120-135 See Met Offi ce Climate Change Guide litres per person per day. Homes are being and South West Climate Change Impacts built to achieve standards down to 80 litres Partnership ‘Warming to the Idea’ report per person per day under the Code for for verifi cation of climate change weather Sustainable Homes scheme. patterns and projected demand increase.
Development pressure throughout the county will inevitably result in increasing demand on these water resources. In some areas it may be necessary to restrict existing water abstractions in order to maintain important wildlife habitats. Utilising alternative, more sustainable water sources and using all resources more effi ciently is therefore a vital consideration for all development.
There is also a direct link between water use and energy use (and therefore carbon 30 - 40% footprint). The Environment Agency have looked across the life-cycle of water supply, household water use and sewage treatment and calculate that for every Predicted decrease in summer million litres of water used almost 7 tonnes of carbon dioxide is emitted. Household rainfall overthe next 50 years hot water use is a particularly signifi cant 25 element of this carbon footprint. Spray More advanced rainwater harvesting taps, low fl ow showers and low volume systems are available where rainwater baths save substantial amounts of hot is stored and used in non-potable water and therefore carbon emissions and applications such as toilet fl ushing, are fundamental elements of code level laundry, cleaning and garden use. Up 3 homes (see BRE Code for Sustainable to fi fty percent of household water Homes). demand can be supplied by a rainwater harvesting system, giving signifi cant Practical solutions savings if a water meter is installed. A discount is available if rainwater is As with energy, the fi rst step is to reduce diverted to a soakaway rather than the the demand and then to fi nd alternative sewer, resulting in further savings and sources to reduce the use of expensively environmental protection. treated drinking water for uses such as fl ushing toilets. Greywater recycling systems, where basin and shower water is fi ltered and Demand can easily be reduced by fi tting treated for use in the toilet or garden can aerating taps, low fl ush toilets and water give additional water savings. Greywater effi cient appliances. Collecting and recycling for wc fl ushing is not commonly storing rainwater for use in the garden is used due to additional complexity, energy another easy way to make a diff erence, as requirements and health concerns. is designing a drought resistant garden. A cheap and simple way to collect water is Water meters are often fi tted for free and by using a water butt. can increase awareness of water usage. With a meter it is also possible to save on Indigenous planting schemes that include water bills if consumption is below the drought tolerant species to reduce the estimated average; metered households need for watering should be included in on average use 12% less water than any landscaping scheme. Species need to unmeasured households. be both tolerant of summer drought and winter damp. Large areas of grass are not Changing our water use habits can advisable, especially on southern aspects. often have a signifi cant eff ect on water Drought tolerant low ground cover plants consumption. should be considered instead. For more information see the ‘Gardening in the For advice and guidance see: Global Greenhouse’ report on the UKCIP • Conserving Water in Buildings - website. Environment Agency • Building and renovation checklists - NetRegs • Save Water - Energy Savings Trust
Demand can easily be reduced by fi tting aerating taps, low fl ush toilets and water effi cient appliances
26 Historic conservation issues Reopening and making usable historic Rainwater harvesting can also be wells and village pumps is worth particularly useful in maintaining planned investigating to provide an additional historic landscapes and gardens. However, communal water source to towns and the architectural integrity of some historic villages. Wells and pumps are often an buildings could be damaged by the important focal point within settlements. need to provide new and more eff ective rainwater disposal, harvesting and Many towns in Cornwall have open leats, greywater systems and such intervention known locally as kennels. Running water will require careful consideration. Poorly through these kennels often adds to the designed water conservation saving ambience and atmosphere of a town or measures could detract from the historic village. Disruption to the fl ow of water character and fabric of buildings, but well through the kennels could lead to damage designed measures have the potential to of beds and bases through drying up. It is make considerable savings with little or no important that water fl ow is maintained. damage.
Decreasing demand by fi tting aerating Opportunities to recycle rainwater in taps, low fl ush toilets and water effi cient historic properties should be encouraged, appliances, along with changing behaviour especially on buildings with large roofs. patterns is simple to incorporate. Any required storage tanks and pumps These changes are unlikely to have any -should be sensitively positioned without detrimental impact on historic buildings. damaging any of the original fabric.
27 Case study Fairglen
Scale of development A development in Hayle with 28 dwellings planned in a 1.21 ha area. The buildings meet Code level 4 and would easily Large – 28 planned dwellings achieve level 5 with more renewable generation. An overall carbon saving of 71% over Target Emission Rate means that Type of development actual emissions are just 9 tonnes. Commercial development Construction and materials The houses use thermally dense materials to absorb natural heat captured by Sustainability features the south facing conservatory and roof lights. This design aims to reduce the variation in temperature that can occur throughout the day and night. This Design reduces the energy use; once the space is heated it stays warmer for longer. Energy The block and beam fl ooring system is designed and installed by a local company, Cornish Concrete Products. Walls are constructed using aerated Water Conservation block with Kingspan insulation and sustainably sourced softwood outer leaf and timber cladding. The windows and doors are all double glazed and comply Water treatment & discharge with secure by design standards. Health & Wellbeing Energy effi cient design and technology Waste The houses feature low energy lighting and appliances, ground source heat pumps to provide hot water and mechanical ventilation with heat. All Pollution properties except for the aff ordable dwellings have a 1.4kW solar photovoltaic system. Community Waste, water conservation and site ecology Features The developer has followed best practice in waste management to minimise High thermal mass designs to the volume of waste produced during construction. The site incorporates 1.3 acres of attenuation ponds to reduce fl ood risk and provide habitat. Eucalyptus reduce peaks and troughs in and rosemary is planted to deter mosquitoes. temperature Each property is fi tted with an underground rainwater harvesting system Over 70% CO2 saving compared which supplies WCs, laundry and the garden tap. with conventional buildings Aff ordable homes See CSBT: www.csbt.org.uk Rainwater harvesting system.
28 Useful links / references Code for sustainable homes, Communities and Local Government www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/ code_for_sust_homes.pdf
Department for energy and climate change - www.decc.gov.uk
Energy Savings Trust - www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
Environment Agency - www.environment-agency.gov.uk
Met Offi ce - www.metoffi ce.gov.uk
Netregs - www.netregs.gov.uk
South West Climate Change Impacts Partnership - www.oursouthwest.com
South West Water - www.southwestwater.co.uk
UK Climate Impacts Programme - www.ukcip.org.uk
Water Effi cient Buildings - www.water-effi cient-buildings.org.uk
Waterwise - www.waterwise.org.uk
Local listings No current listings
29 Water treatment and drainage It is important that location, design and maintenance are fully considered to minimise any impacts on the environment
Basic design principle Where a main sewer is not available, other systems for managing waste water This topic covers two areas, the control are used. This is often a septic tank of rain water and the treatment of waste with a leachfi eld, which will require water. Systems to manage surface water periodic removal of untreated solid are known as SUDS (Sustainable Urban waste. A leachfi eld in clay, rock or near a Drainage Systems) though they can be watercourse will be ineff ective and sewage applied in rural or in built up areas. Private may escape into the wider environment treatment of waste water is usually only without eff ective treatment. necessary in isolated rural areas without access to a mains sewer. It is important Private package treatment plants usually that location, design and maintenance are require an electricity supply to aerate the fully considered to minimise any impacts sewage, but the resulting effl uent is of a on the environment. higher quality than from a septic tank. Sustainability context Cesspits are closed systems with no discharge point that require regular Large roofs and areas of hard landscaping emptying by a licensed sewage disposal result in excess run-off ; exacerbating contractor. They are the least sustainable fl ooding, pollution and erosion problems, private system and should be avoided. and reducing natural infi ltration. Urban fl ooding has a number of causes, many The natural breakdown of organic matter linked to the nature and location of requires oxygen. If poorly treated effl uent building developments and associated is discharged into a watercourse the infrastructure. These causes include the available oxygen will be used by micro- impediment of natural waterways and organisms and more complex forms of life drains, the increase in diverted run-off and may not survive. also the increase in impermeable surfaces with reduced ground water recharge. With the predicted eff ects of climate change including heavier winter rainfall episodes eff ective fl ood prevention must be designed into every development.
30 Practical solutions Reduction of surface water run-off Soakaways are subsurface structures A green roof will retain signifi cant into which surface water is drained to amounts of rainfall within its substrate. allow infi ltration into the ground. They This reduces the fl ow rate of rainwater may be compact, rubble-fi lled excavations from the roof which helps to mitigate or hollow precast concrete devices fl ooding and keeps potable water depending on the capacity required. available in the environment through transpiration and evaporation. Filter strips are vegetated areas of gently sloping ground designed to drain water Some existing roofs may be converted evenly off impermeable areas and fi lter out to insulated green roofs, also improving silt and other particulates. Landscaping energy effi ciency and biodiversity. A should be designed to maximise this structural engineer should be consulted. eff ect. Detailed Information on the design In paved areas, porous concrete blocks, requirements for SUDS is contained in crushed stone/gravel or porous asphalt the ‘Drainage Guidance for Cornwall can be used to encourage surface water Council’ document, which can be to permeate into the ground. Depending obtained from Cornwall Council or the on the ground conditions the water may Environment Agency. infi ltrate directly into the subsoil or be stored in an underground reservoir (e.g. a crushed stone layer) before slowly soaking Private waste water treatment into the ground. If necessary, an overfl ow Treatment occurs in stages, usually two or can keep the surface free of water in all three to treat the effl uent to an acceptable conditions. level.
Swales are shallow vegetated channels Primary stages are either a septic tank, designed to conduct and retain water but which separates and stores the solid waste, may also permit infi ltration. Basins are dry or a package treatment plant which uses ponds which provide temporary storage an electrically driven mechanical device of storm water; reducing peak fl ows to to stimulate aerobic microbial activity. receiving waters, facilitating the fi ltration The microbial activity breaks down solid of pollutants and microbial decomposition matter, reducing its volume and toxicity, as well as allowing water infi ltration and improves the quality of the effl uent. directly into the ground. They can vary in size and therefore can be created as The simplest and most common features within the landscaped areas of a secondary stage is a drainage fi eld, site. Swales and basins are often installed where effl uent is discharged into the as part of a drainage network connecting ground via perforated pipes in trenches to a pond or wetland prior to discharge to of granular material. Microbes in the soil a natural watercourse. break down the remaining organic matter, and willows or similar damp loving species Ponds and wetlands can be particularly can be planted to make use of nutrients benefi cial during heavy rain due to their and absorb excess liquid. The size of a capacity to hold large amounts of water leachfi eld varies depending on the ability and therefore reduce fl ood risk. They of the ground to absorb water, and in are best suited to larger sites where they some cases is not viable. can be incorporated into landscaping schemes.
31 Reed bed systems can also provide ‘The design integrity of some historic secondary treatment. Wastewater fi lters buildings and landscapes could be through sand and gravel in the bed where damaged by the need to provide new the organic matter is digested by micro- and more eff ective rainwater disposal organisms. Two types exist, vertical fl ow or storage systems or fl ood protection and horizontal fl ow, with vertical fl ow features’ (Cornwall LDF Core Strategy). more suited to secondary treatment. Discreet provision of irrigation and water storage should be pursued on existing or Tertiary treatment can be a leachfi eld, planned projects in buildings, archaeology a reed bed, or a pond where further and parks and gardens, especially as too biological activity and settlement much water is being drawn from aquifers occurs. The number of stages depends and groundwater sources. Additional on the level of treatment required. Well downpipes should be sensitively located treated effl uent can be discharged to and regular maintenance of gutters and a watercourse, subject to Environment gulleys should be encouraged. Agency approval. The projected changes in rainfall patterns Composting toilets are an eff ective are likely to give rise to many changes in and environmentally friendly way of parks and gardens. Sensitively installed dealing with human waste. Although water storage, where possible, may be usually found in remote areas, a modern required to cope with summer droughts composting system can be installed in while redesigned drainage may also be the home, reducing water consumption necessary to cope with heavy autumn and and decreasing pressure on waste water winter rain. disposal systems. More frequent intense rainfall and Historic conservation fl ooding will accelerate erosion of historic fabric and archaeological sites making issues historic buildings diffi cult to insure. There Predicted changes in weather patterns is a need to monitor and comprehensively are likely to have serious direct impacts record archaeological sites. Sensitive on the historic environment. Increased fl ood prevention measures are needed for storminess, more intense rainfall and historic homes. These could include fi tting fl ooding will be damaging to historic removable door and window boards, landscapes and gardens, historic buildings snap-on vent covers or wrap-round skirts, and archaeology. Therefore it is desirable using sandbags, and fi ling gaps and holes. to mitigate the eff ects of storm water Raising fl oors should generally be avoided and run-off . However, within historically on listed buildings. sensitive sites works to reduce surface water run-off and private waste water treatment will need to be carefully designed and use materials sympathetic to context. Additional downpipes should be sensitively located and regular maintenance of gutters and gulleys should be encouraged
32 Run off around historic buildings should The Pitt Report, following the be checked to ensure that water is UK 2007 fl ooding, gives advice falling adequately away from buildings. and recommendations for simple Pooling of water will accelerate damp adaptations to existing buildings to problems. The use of semi permeable make them more fl ood resistant. surfacing and French drains should be examined. Possible changes in water Water table height and chemistry run-off , following mine engine house shaft changes may also provoke problems with capping, should be considered prior to maintaining levels of important water works. features, and with the bore holes and water supplies from wells and springs on Some adaptive responses to climate which gardens and water features depend. change may themselves have an impact Regular soil analysis and testing will on the historic environment. For example become vital, especially for historic plant ‘Hard’ coastal defence is seen as untenable collections. on much of the undeveloped coast and has led to a new emphasis on selective A likely outcome of heavier future rain is managed realignment and ‘soft’ defences a signifi cant increase in fl uvial fl ooding. (such as river banks), posing a possible risk This is not only directly damaging, but also to archaeology, buildings and landscapes. of concern for erosion. Runoff fl ooding Flood protection/ managed retreat has been exacerbated by changes in land plans should be formulated to address cover such as the building of roads and archaeological sites, including those hard stands for car parking replacing front below the current low tide level as well as gardens. scheduled ancient monuments.
Coastal properties may also be at risk from fl ooding associated with sea level rise and storm surges. New fl ood defences, particularly in historic towns, can cause major archaeological damage along historic waterfronts and may impair the character of historic quaysides and waterside buildings and gardens.
Post-fl ood drying is critical, with buildings and excavated archaeology at great risk from subsidence. Ground heave and subsidence as water recedes were identifi ed as the major issues arising from projected changes in the water table height. Coastal fl ooding and storm surge were also identifi ed as extremely worrying, at least for sites in high-risk areas. Storm surges are likely to have same eff ect as overall sea level rise.
33 Case study Kynance Cove
Scale of development The restored cottage at Kynance Cove is now part holiday homes and part café for visitors to the cove near The Small - medium Lizard Peninsula. The area is of such natural beauty and environmental signifi cance that the design has been fully Type of development informed by local knowledge and tradition. Café and holiday cottages Building services and utility connections The existing system of power consisted of a diesel generator with battery Sustainability features backup. In order to provide mains electricity and eff ective heating the National Trust required a full revision of services to the remote location. They decided Design to incorporate these in a trench, with installation of an underground LPG tank. Energy This removed the need for overground wires, reducing the impact on the environment and visual disruption. Biodiversity Energy and water Water conservation The design incorporates a turf roof with local plant species, this helps the complex to blend into the surroundings and allows for water collection. All Water treatment & discharge hedging stone was reclaimed from the existing complex which meant no reliance upon transport to the remote location. Retaining walls are constructed Health and wellbeing of sweet chestnut from local sources. Materials There is a local spring water supply which is used for fl ushing toilets within the buildings, the whole site is fi tted with low fl ush cisterns and aerated taps. Waste The design also has 540 photo-voltaic roof tiles for electricity generation, and Pollution solar water heating system for hot water. The guttering is fully recyclable, being galvanised zinc. All insulation is natural and windows double glazed. Low Community energy lighting and appliances are ‘A’ rated. Waste processing Features A sequencing batch reactor system monitors the waste levels and adapts for minimum energy use. As well as this, the system can deal with all types of Full consideration of all design waste from the complex, producing bathing water quality standards. aspects, from water to waste
Traditional design with local See CSBT: www.csbt.org.uk knowledge
LPG use in kitchen reduces CO2 compared with usual fuel supply.
34 Useful links / references Local listings Code for sustainable homes, Communities pdp Green Consulting Ltd and Local Government Architects, Stormwater Systems, www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/ Environmental Materials Specifi cation code_for_sust_homes.pdf www.pdpgreen.co.uk [email protected] Centre for Alternative Technology - Offi ce 3, Calenick House, Truro Technology www.cat.org.uk Park, Heron Way, Truro, TR1 2XN Construction Industry Research and Tel: 01872 265400 Information Association - www.ciria.org.uk
Department for energy and climate change - www.decc.gov.uk
Environment Agency - www.environment-agency.gov.uk
Met Offi ce - www.metoffi ce.gov.uk
Pitt Report - www.archive.cabinetoffi ce.gov.uk/ pittreview/thepittreview.html
South West Water - www.southwestwater.co.uk
UK Climate Impacts Programme - www.ukcip.org.uk
NetRegs – www.netregs.gov.uk
Planning Portal – English Heritage forthcoming 2008c: Rainwater and Greywater Use and Traditional Buildings. London: English Heritage www.english-heritage.org.uk
English Heritage 2008: Conservation Principles: Policies and Guidance for the Sustainable Management of the Historic Environment. London: English Heritage (Product Code 51393) www.helm.org.uk/upload/ pdf/Conservation_Principles_ A4%5B1%5D.pdf?1251185898
35 Materials Careful specifi cation of material can greatly enhance the sustainability of a building
Basic design principle Re-used and recycled materials require relatively little energy in their production An ideal material will be competitively or procurement and avoid environmental priced, have excellent performance, low impacts linked to extraction and disposal. life-cycle impact, be sourced locally and They can be used in many ways while be appropriate for its context. Practically, still producing a new looking building. most material selection will involve Consideration should also be given to compromise. whether materials are able to be recycled or re-used. The hierarchy for benign and energy effi cient material selection is: Energy saving performance over the • Renewable lifespan of the material should be compared with embodied energy to • Local get a true picture of the overall energy • Recycled performance. For example an aluminium • Recyclable or modern steel window frame has high embodied energy but will perform well Sustainability context in terms of air-tightness, maintenance and lifespan, and can be recycled. Careful specifi cation of material can greatly enhance the sustainability of a Wastage of materials is, eventually, a waste building. The number of factors involved of energy. Minimise over-ordering by makes fi nding the most sustainable specifying materials with low lead times material diffi cult, however the principles of and local availability. Excess materials a “life-cycle approach” can help to identify should be re-used or given away for re-use which materials are more sustainable. in preference to being thrown away or recycled. Embodied energy is incurred from manufacture and transport of materials; Practical solutions most industrial processes are highly energy intensive so generally, the more The Building Research Establishment natural and unprocessed a material is (BRE) has produced the Green Guide to the less embodied energy it has. Locally Specifi cation which provides a systematic produced materials reduce embodied assessment of the environmental energy from transport and sustain local impacts and benefi ts of many types of economy. building elements. Selecting primarily A-rated materials from this guide gives Industrial processes often involve the use a straightforward method for specifying and release of pollutants. Products can more sustainable materials, although this leach VOCs into the living environment is most relevant in new build situations. and cause additional pollution when they are disposed of. 36 The most sustainable materials are re-used with low embodied energy. Forest and re-usable. Timber and aggregate Steward Council (FSC) is the most common from demolition is often re-used and a certifi cation in the UK and ensures that the range of reclaimed materials including timber is from a well managed resource timber, slate and stone are available to buy that is not contributing to deforestation. from reclamation yards. See the Cornwall Building Stone and Slate Guide for more Many processed wood products such information. as MDF (medium density fi breboard), chipboard and plywood contain chemical Recycled materials follow in the hierarchy adhesives so the use of these should be of sustainability, requiring some energy minimised. Other manufactured products in processing and manufacture but have certain advantages; hardboard is not depleting any resource. Recycled bonded using only temperature and aggregate is readily available and it is pressure so is relatively benign, glulam often possible to specify products which beams will have lower environmental are totally or partially made from recycled impact than steel, and manufactured I material. beams use wood effi ciently to provide a fast, light and strong building solution. Where new materials are required, naturally growing products are renewable Untreated timber can last for many years if and sustainable where the resource is it is from a durable species and is correctly properly managed. Building with plant detailed. Where treatment is deemed derived material such as wood and hemp necessary, more natural methods are available. Treated softwood from a DIY is an excellent way to lock up CO2. The use of fi nite resources should be minimised store or builder’s merchant may have been where possible. treated with toxic preservative. However it is worth enquiring as they could have a Wood from independently certifi ed more benign alternative or decide to stock sustainable forests is a natural resource one. 37 Basic structure Traditional local roofi ng material has been North Cornish slate from the Delabole Timber framed building is commercially area. However this is a fi nite resource competitive and is increasingly seen in and should be preserved for prestigious new buildings. Timber frames are quick heritage buildings. to construct and can be pre-fabricated, reducing waste and build time. Modern More severe weather episodes are also timber building methods have a design infl uencing the choice of roofi ng materials. lifespan equivalent to masonry when Robust materials and fi xing systems will constructed to TRADA specifi cations. need to resist predicted stronger wind and rain conditions. Where specifi c appearance Materials such as baled straw and doesn’t dictate material choice sheeted hemp-lime are being used in large materials should be considered for structures that are now being delivered durability. at costs comparable to those of far more conventional buildings. These materials could in many cases be compatible for Finishing elements extensions to historic structures. Timber is Timber windows frames which have seeing greater use as a structural material, reduced environmental impacts and replacing steel and concrete, especially in lower lifecycle costs should be used in domestic construction. preference to their PVC counterparts. High performance steel and aluminium Heavy materials such as brick, block windows are effi cient but less suitable and concrete are durable and have the because of their energy intensive benefi t of providing thermal mass within manufacture. Double glazing is the building envelope. Although the recommended as the most cost eff ective embodied energy from the manufacture way to save carbon, although there of these materials is largely unavoidable are other options for increasing the other impacts can be reduced by buying performance of windows in historic local products containing recycled buildings. materials. Using industrial by-products to manufacture materials is an eff ective Flooring made from natural materials that way to reduce waste and embodied undergo little manufacturing process energy. China clay waste is suitable for has reduced environmental impact and manufacturing blocks and pulverised fl y should be specifi ed. Examples include ash or blast furnace slag can be used to marmoleum, cork, timber and seagrass replace some cement in concrete. coverings. Wool carpets and natural fl oor tiles, such as those made from ceramic and terrazzo also have relatively low environmental impacts.
38 Natural insulation materials which are Historic conservation approved by BRE (Building Research Establishment) should be specifi ed. These issues materials have simple manufacturing Existing buildings contain considerable processes which are less energy intensive amounts of embodied energy, that than conventional insulation materials. is, the energy that was used in their Examples include fl ax, sheep’s wool, materials and construction. Presumption recycled newspaper, cork, jute sacking and should be in favour of retaining and cellulose. As well as providing eff ective re-using historic buildings rather thermal insulation, natural materials have than demolishing them. Poor energy the ability to breathe and absorb moisture effi ciency leads to excessive energy and consequently reduce the risk of consumption, contributing to climate condensation and damp. They also have change. Recent BRE research has shown reduced health risk during manufacture that refurbishment of offi ces in contrast and installation and are biodegradable. to new-build is often environmentally better than redevelopment (provided Paints that are water or vegetable oil that air-conditioning is not used), and is based have less environmental and health usually cheaper. Sensitive solutions for impact than mineral oil based paints. the reuse of historic buildings provide It is important to specify micro-porous vitality, character and good regeneration paints on timber to ensure it can breathe; opportunities. this prolongs the life of the material by allowing it to maintain correct moisture To preserve local character and historic content. fabric, many historic Cornish homes require the use of appropriate natural slate and stone, timber windows and breathable paints, renders and mortars. Regular maintenance, repair, sensitive
39 upgrading and re-use of materials is often replacements and are more cost eff ective more cost eff ective and more sustainable in energy terms. ‘Traditional softwood than wholesale replacement with frames have an infi nite life if properly maintenance free alternatives. maintained, whereas many PVC windows may not last long enough to repay their Where new buildings are proposed in installation costs from energy savings’ historic contexts care should be taken (English Heritage – Climate Change and to source sustainable materials that the Historic Environment). harmonise with their surrounding and respect local character and distinctiveness. Draughtproofi ng, secondary glazing and internal timber shutters can all be Older buildings function in diff erent ways used to improve the energy and acustic to modern buildings and need to breathe. performance of windows in traditional Construction is often more porous with buildings, while retaining original soft and permeable materials which character. respond to air and moisture diff erently to many of the hard and impermeable Chimneys are visually important on materials used in modern buildings. historic buildings and traditionally provided a means of dispersing internal It is a challenge to make historic buildings evaporation and reducing condensation. energy effi cient. Thermal improvements They should be retained and reused, and are still possible to older properties but incorporate controllable ventilation. need to be handled sensitively as older buildings with solid walls still need to Metal gutters and downpipes can be breathe. repaired and reused. They can be made of recycled metals and are much more There should be an emphasis on repair appropriate for historic buildings than PVC as opposed to replacement. Renovating alternatives which are harmful to produce, windows rather than replacing them have a limited lifespan and often end up in retains the carbon store or invested energy landfi ll. from the original manufacturing process. This provides a vast saving in energy from Photovoltaics and solar panels with extracting raw materials through to the their associated equipment may not processing of these into fi nished products. be suitable on all historic buildings as they can often be visually intrusive. In Repairing rather than replacing windows some circumstances they can be sited on refurbishments other than ‘a change of in unobtrusive locations such as inner use’ does not have to comply with Part L slopes, rear elevations, outbuildings and of the Building Regulations. There is some even at ground level. Initial justifi cation fl exibility with the Building regulations and for installations should be made to ensure it is often possible to increase insulation that they will provide benefi ts to the elsewhere to compensate for retention of homeowner and that performance is not single glazed windows on listed buildings. impaired through incorrect orientation, slope, shade and maintenance and It should be recognised that historic cleaning diffi culties. building materials are often of a better quality, more durable than modern
40 To preserve the local character many Vernacular design is dependent upon Cornish homes and buildings requires traditional skills and building techniques the use of slate and stone. The ‘Cornish and local materials. For example there are Building Stone and Slate Guide’ (2007) various slating styles such as random rag provides information on how to source or scantle and areas where local long- such material. Where the cost of local straw thatching is found. materials is prohibitive, environmental harm can be minimised by importing The demise of traditional building skills shorter distances and researching the and the pressure of standardisation has environmental policies of the producer. resulted in replacement rather than repair- Investigations could be made to reopen resulting not only in an adverse impact local quarries in some cases. on the historic built environment but also an incessant drain upon fi nite raw Opportunities to specify traditional materials and the energy embodied in materials should be encouraged to their manufacture. Local traditional skills stimulate demand for indigenous materials training courses are ongoing in the area. and reduce the carbon footprint of the Contact your local Conservation Offi cer for material supply chain. details.
It may be possible to use or reuse some The way people use historic buildings natural materials such as slate and stone can improve their overall performance. in certain circumstances. Care should be Small changes can have a considerable taken, however, that robbing of other eff ect such as altering use patterns, historic buildings is not encouraged. correcting any maintenance backlog (e.g. cleaning windows and light fi ttings), Limecrete or rammed earth can be repairing windows and doors, improving appropriate fl ooring materials for controls (e.g. programmable thermostats, many older buildings. They have lower thermostatic radiator valves), upgrading embodied energy than concrete and are artifi cial lighting and portable appliances. vapour permeable. Environmentally friendly paints are now Natural fi bre-based materials such available that are also suitable for use as sheep’s wool and hemp fi bre are on historic buildings. Such paints reduce suitable for use as insulation in traditional harmful production toxins, are safe, buildings. These have good thermal breathable, prevent trapped moisture in insulation properties and do not hinder walls, are healthier and have advantages in the movement of moisture. Materials disposal. such as fi breglass and mineral wool have a tendency to hold moisture; in older buildings this can increase the risk of damp, timber decay and mould growth.
41 Case study Trygga
Scale of development This fi ve bedroom timber framed straw bale house shows that natural, reclaimed and recycled materials can be used Small extensively without compromising aesthetic sensibilities. It is let as holiday accommodation during the summer and has Type of development been featured in a Cornish lifestyle magazine. Single dwelling Use of existing building The site was acquired with a fl at roof block built utility building which now Sustainability features forms the core of the house. Initially the local planning department resisted expansion of the existing building’s footprint, however these issues were Design resolved and building control were subsequently very helpful with the straw Energy bale design. Materials Construction and materials A signifi cant proportion of the wood used is salvaged and reclaimed, with Maintenance the balance from local sustainable sources. The straw bale walls are self built with help from friends and family and fi nished with lime render internally Waste and externally. The exterior render requires an annual lime wash to maintain condition. Pollution The roof is made from recycled tyre tiles. Furniture, fi ttings and joinery Community are reclaimed, salvaged, modifi ed and adapted. The bathroom suites are reclaimed and second hand, and paving is reclaimed brick. Where possible, the house is self built. Along with the resourceful and Features innovative use of materials this has resulted in a house which cost signifi cantly less than an equivalent new build. Straw bale construction with lime render. Energy effi ciency Extensive use of reclaimed, recycled Due to the excellent insulation properties of straw bale and low emissivity and re-used materials. South facing glazing, space heating is only required for three hours a day in the coldest weather. Low energy lighting is used throughout. Adaption of existing building as part of house construction See CSBT: www.csbt.org.uk
42 Useful links / references English Heritage 2007c: Energy Conservation in Traditional Buildings. BRE Green Guide - London: English Heritage (Product www.thegreenguide.org.uk Code 51367)- good basic guidance with Code for sustainable homes, Communities illustrations and Local Government www.helm.org.uk/upload/ www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/ pdf/89410-EnergyConservation1. code_for_sust_homes.pdf pdf?1247645803
Constructing Excellence - English Heritage 2007d: Cutting Down on www.constructingexcellence.org.uk Carbon: Improving the Energy Effi ciency of Historic Buildings. Summary of Cornish Concrete - Government Historic Estates Unit Annual www.cornishconcrete.co.uk Seminar, Building Research Establishment, Garston, 9 October 2007 Cornwall Building Stone and Slate Guide www.helm.org.uk/upload/pdf/BRE- www.cornwall.gov.uk/idoc. seminar.pdf?1250845158 ashx?docid=8e16a1e4-0309-4831- 90d5-94444fe893ed&version=-1 Forest Stewardship Council - www.fsc.org Devon & Cornwall Master Thatchers Association - Building Regulations and Historic www.devonandcornwallmta.co.uk Buildings - Balancing the needs for energy conservation with those of building Forest Stewardship Council UK conservation: an Interim Guidance Note on www.fsc-uk.org the application of Part L www.helm.org.uk/upload/pdf/ign_ Freecycle - partl_buildingregs.pdf?1247645803 www.uk.freecycle.org Yates,T. 2006: Sustainable Refurbishment Green Book Live - of Victorian Housing – Guidance, www.greenbooklive.com Assessment Method and Case Studies. Watford: Buildings Research Establishment Re:Source - Trust www.myresource.org.uk www.brebookshop.com/details. SalvoWeb - jsp?id=286929 www.salvo.co.uk Baker, P 2008: Improving the Thermal South West Eco-Warehouse - Performance of Traditional Windows. www.sw-ecowarehouse.co.uk Glasgow Caledonian University, for Historic Scotland UK Reclamation Yard Directory - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/ www.uk-reclamation.co.uk thermal-windows.pdf#xml=http:// web1:10700/texis/webinator/ Waste Resources Action Programme – pubssearch/pdfhi.txt?pr=publication WRAP - s&prox=page&rorder=500&rprox=50 www.wrap.org.uk 0&rdfreq=500&rwfreq=500&rlead=5 00&rdepth=0&sufs=0&order=r&id=4 a89fda47
43 Mitchell, D 2008: INFORM Guide - Energy Local listings Effi ciency. Published by Technical Conservation Group, Historic Scotland Cob in Cornwall www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/ Specialist Skills, Materials inform_guide_-_energy_effi ciency.pdf www.cobincornwall.com [email protected] Energy Heritage, A guide to improving Manaccan, Helston, Cornwall, TR12 6EN energy effi ciency in traditional and historic Tel: 01326 231 773 homes, Changeworks: www.changeworks.org.uk/content. pdp Green Consulting Ltd php?linkid=373 Architects, Stormwater Systems, Renewable heritage, A guide to Environmental Materials Specifi cation microgeneration in traditional and historic www.pdpgreen.co.uk homes, Changeworks: [email protected] www.changeworks.org.uk/content. Offi ce 3, Calenick House, Truro Technology php?linkid=424 Park, Heron Way, Truro, TR1 2XN Ventrolla Green Pack: Tel: 01872 265400 www.ventrolla.co.uk/uploaded/ Green%20Pack.pdf
Climate Change and the Historic Environment 2005, UCL Centre for Sustainable Heritage: eprints.ucl.ac.uk/2082/1/2082.pdf
44 Waste Minimise the impact of waste by choosing materials that are natural and recyclable
Basic design principle Sustainability context Reduce waste and associated costs by Every year the South West produces designing, specifying and building in ways 12.5 million tonnes of construction and that make the best use of materials, and demolition waste. allow maximum recyclability at the end of the building’s life. National data shows that between 70% and 90% of collected household waste Minimise the impact of waste by choosing is recyclable or compostable. Apart from materials that are natural and recyclable, squandering resources, landfi ll disposal and separating recyclable and re-usable and incineration creates a range of other waste on site to prevent it going to landfi ll. environmental problems.
Provide facilities for segregating material Waste is one of Cornwall’s biggest issues. and recycling during occupation of the In 2008, Cornwall produced approximately building. 324,281 tonnes of municipal waste. Of this, 204,557 tonnes (63%) was sent to When demolishing, re-use material on site landfi ll and only 105,921 tonnes (33%) was where possible. Any material which cannot recycled or composted. be re-used should be recycled or re-used elsewhere. The introduction of the Landfi ll Tax has created a signifi cant fi nancial incentive to reuse and recycle materials. It also makes using recycled materials in construction a more attractive fi nancial option. The Aggregates Levy sends a similar message about reducing the unnecessary use of new minerals and supporting the re-use of construction and demolition materials.
Minimisation and eff ective management of building waste reduces the demand on fi nite resources. It also helps to minimise the environmental risks and impacts associated with resource extraction, 70 -90% transportation and disposal.
National data shows that between 70% and 90% of collected household waste is recyclable or compostable 45 Practical solutions For all development proposals, Prepare a Site Waste Management Plan, developers should: forward planning and active management can reduce waste. Planning and • Audit the materials present on monitoring waste management is required a site and assess the extent to for proving the environmental credentials which they could be put to use in of a project. the new development or in other developments elsewhere. Always remember the waste hierarchy: • Identify any hazardous materials Reduce, Re-use, Recycle. Everything that (e.g. asbestos) on site and arrange is produced consumes energy and natural for containment and disposal by a resources, if less is wasted then less will licensed operator. need to be produced. Recycling conserves natural resources but still requires energy • Assess the potential for using to transport and process the material, reclaimed and recycled materials therefore it is better to re-use where from elsewhere. possible. • Consider the life span of all construction materials used, new Provision of space or facilities for the and recycled, and the ease with separate collection of recyclable materials, which they could be disposed of or easy access to recycling facilities, is or used again once the structure recommended inside as well as outside reaches the end of its life. the building. For more information about recycling and composting see the Recycle for Cornwall website.
Flexible design is an important concept in that it can lead to the re-use of a building, prolonging its lifespan. Flexible design also reduces the need for major refurbishments. Prefabricated components can help minimise waste as the most labour intensive and often most wasteful processes have already been done. Modular or standardised components can also reduce waste at the outset. The design of new roofs could be with purlins instead of trusses to allow for future expansion within the roofspace and avoid the need for additional building.
A waste audit is a tool to assess how waste materials can be sustainably managed through the construction process and subsequent operation/occupation of the development.
46 Historic conservation Environmentally friendly natural paint issues ranges for exterior and internal use, which allow walls to breathe, are now available. A ODPM Select Committee Report 2004 number of these are bagged as opposed commented that: ‘Something like to tinned. This reduces harmful production 24% of all waste is generated by and has disposal benefi ts. Leftover paint is demolition and construction. It is classed as hazardous waste. simply better in sustainability terms to use and recycle old buildings than Useful links / references to demolish them and to build new ones’. Environment Agency - www.environment-agency.gov.uk Demolition and replacement means not only losing all of the resources EH Heritage Counts 2004 - embodied in the original building, but www.heritagelink.org.uk/docs/ also the investment of yet more energy heritage_dynamo.pdf for demolition, the creation and delivery Recycle For Cornwall - of new construction materials, the www.recycleforcornwall.org.uk building process itself, and the disposal of the resultant waste. English Heritage Waste Resources Action Programme - has commented that ‘When our www.wrap.org.uk historic buildings stock is needlessly demolished, the stored embodied NetRegs - energy goes to waste, to demolish a www.netregs.gov.uk/ Victorian terraced house is to throw away enough embodied energy to EH Guidance: Understanding SAP ratings drive a car around the world fi ve www.helm.org.uk/upload/pdf/SAP_ times’. ratings.pdf
Presumption should always be in favour of converting historical buildings rather than Local listings replacing them with new buildings. As well Wardell Armstrong as retaining original fabric it avoids the Environmental Consultants unnecessary production of new building www.wardell-armstrong.com products. Historic buildings represents a signifi cant past investment of energy and Wheal Jane, Baldhu, Truro, materials as well as in most cases a quality Cornwall, TR3 6EH traditional vernacular construction. The Tel: 01872 560738 regular maintenance and repair to historic buildings and the re-use of materials SITA Cornwall reduces unnecessary waste. Waste Management www.sitacornwall.co.uk Sustainability requires us to make the best use of what we already have and reusing United Mines, United Downs, St. old buildings conserves embodied Day,Redruth, Cornwall, TR16 5HU energy and in most cases will be a more Tel: 08456 300300 sustainable option than demolition and new build. All the traditional materials used to build old houses are either recyclable or are a renewable resource.
47 Case study Mt. Pleasant
Scale of development Mt. Pleasant’s six workshop units were completed in July 2004 in Porthtowan near Truro. The project was to off er Medium eco-workshops for local businesses, providing a sustainable base for work in the area. The site incorporates a number of Type of development features for energy reduction. Commercial, Eco Park Construction and materials The existing agricultural building was extended in original block. The structure Sustainability features is a majority rammed earth, with reclaimed timber gables and a lime/sand render. This keeps with the local traditional look, using many local and Design reclaimed materials. The roof tiles are made from recycled tyre rubber. Energy The building utilises as much natural lighting as possible and construction materials give a high thermal mass, increasing the effi ciency of space heating. Water conservation Renewable energy and water saving Water treatment & discharge The site uses a large biomass boiler, this can have a twofold advantage in that Health and wellbeing not only does it burn any bio waste, but the site actually generates useful waste from Pioneer fabrication work. Materials There are solar thermal panels fi tted for energy gains and rainwater is Waste harvested for use in the workshops. All light fi ttings are low energy. Community Site considerations Costs were just £800/m2 for the site development. There was resistance to the extension of the building and many small compromises were made including the use of mezzanine fl oors instead of a second storey. Features Some costs associated with the sustainable technology are; Boiler (Farm 200) Full biomass boiler helps reduce was £3,800, Solar Thermal panels were £3,000 and plumbing with storage tank waste and power buildings was £8,000. Cost of build, approximately 2 £800/m See CSBT: www.csbt.org.uk Reclaimed materials used throughout
48 Pollution It is critical to ensure that builders and contractors have sound environmental management practices
Basic design principle Minimise construction related To minimise polluting emissions to water, pollution air and soil and minimise noise and light It is in the interests of construction pollution by remediation of existing companies to minimise pollution as on-site pollution and management of breaches of regulations can result in potential pollutants during construction signifi cant fi nes. In most cases complying and operation. with codes of practice and adopting best practice should minimise nuisance Sustainability context to neighbours and safeguard the environment. The Considerate Constructor The construction process can create Scheme provides a way of managing noise, dust, water and air pollution which construction to minimise pollution and is damages the environment and causes recommended by Cornwall Council. Noise nuisance to nearby residents. Post- on construction sites is regulated by Local construction, buildings can continue to Authorities under the Control of Pollution aff ect external air quality and contribute to Act (COPA) 1974. noise and light pollution. Again, this causes nuisance and, in the case of light pollution, Minimise impact on external air wastes energy through inadequately quality designed lighting. Air quality impacts can also be signifi cant. Developers and operators need to assess Practical solutions the emissions that would result from The client is responsible for pollution heating, cooling and ventilation plant. occurring as a result of construction In particular they should specify heating work. It is therefore critical to ensure that plant with low nitrous oxide emissions and builders and contractors have sound cooling systems which do not use ozone environmental management practices. depleting or global warming substances.
On-site Contamination The environmental impact of a development can extend far beyond Residual industrial pollution exists in many the site, especially in relation to traffi c areas of Cornwall. In any area with a history movements and related air pollution. of industrial activity the soil should be Transport impacts should be mitigated tested before it is disturbed or removed. through the development of traffi c Existing structures may contain asbestos reduction measures and the promotion of which must be removed and disposed more sustainable modes of transport. of safely. See the Health and Safety Executive’s asbestos web resource.
49 Minimise noise and light stale and polluted air. Where a building is pollution signifi cantly airtight, a ventilation system with heat recovery will keep air fresh and Transmission of noise can be a problem regulate humidity while retaining up to between dwellings such as fl ats and 90% of the heat from expelled air. terraced housing. It can also be a problem in other buildings such as open plan Minimise Embodied Pollution offi ces. Ventilation and heating plant can also produce noise pollution particularly Any product or material will have when located on roofs. Buildings located associated environmental impact resulting near busy roads, railways or industrial sites from its manufacture, transport and may also suff er from high noise levels. storage. Specify local natural materials which are manufactured without toxic Design of buildings can minimise these chemicals. Also consider potential for problems if attention is given to: pollution at the end of the life of the material. See the Materials section for • Adequate sound insulation in fl oors and more information. walls • Sound insulation for plant rooms and Historic conservation plant housing issues • Double glazing on all aspects exposed to high levels of noise PVC windows are often preferred to timber because of their cheaper cost and reduced • Ventilation on aspects exposed to high maintenance. PVC has environmental levels of noise – natural ventilation issues; the manufacturing process is long by opening windows may not be a and produces toxic by-products, it is practical option diffi cult to recycle so will often end up in landfi ll where it does not bio degrade and Light pollution has emerged as a it is hazardous when burnt. signifi cant issue in populated areas. Light pollution obscures the night sky, PVC windows alter the character and is wasteful of energy and can also be appearance of a house, gradually disruptive to both wildlife and those living discolour and degrade requiring complete in and beside any new development. replacement if one element fails. Timber Public safety requires that highways windows have comparable thermal and other public space are illuminated. characteristics to PVC. Older timber is However, light pollution can be reduced usually of higher quality to modern timber by the use of directional lighting, as and can be patch repaired, providing cost can energy costs, without any loss of benefi ts and a renewable resource with illumination. low embodied energy. Repair retains the original character and appearance and if Minimise Internal Air pollution properly maintained can last for hundreds Many synthetic and processed materials of years. release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can be detrimental to English Heritage’s Heritage at Risk Register human health, particularly fi nishing 2009 shows that Local Authorities believe products such as paints and fl oor that the top threat to conservation areas coverings. Specifi cation of natural is plastic windows and doors. An English materials will result in improved internal Heritage poll of estate agents reveals that environment with benefi ts to the wider 82% think original features add value to a environment (see Materials section for property and 75% think being in a well- more information). kept conservation area enhances house
Eff ective ventilation is necessary to remove
50 prices. Useful links / references Environment Agency - www.environment-agency.gov.uk
Construction Industry Research and Information Association - www.ciria.org
HSE Asbestos - www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos
Ventrolla Green Pack: www.ventrolla.co.uk/uploaded/ Green%20Pack.pdf
Local listings Wardell Armstrong Environmental Consultants www.wardell-armstrong.com Wheal Jane, Baldhu, Truro, Cornwall, TR3 6EH Tel: 01872 560738
51 Case study Burntwood
Designed for low impact through choice of materials, energy Scale of development effi cient design and renewable energy technologies. Small Passive performance Type of development Designed by Arco2 Architects and built with the help of friends, family and Detached house WWOOF volunteers, the building makes good use of natural heating and lighting. A ‘sunspace’ on the South Corner of the house is a full height glazed Sustainability features facade with stone faced block walls to the interior, this area collects solar heat which can be distributed through the house by a heat-exchange ventilation Design system. Windows at the top can be opened to dispel excess heat. Energy Externally insulated concrete slab and block retaining walls provide thermal mass to balance temperature fl uctuations. Argon fi lled double glazing is used Biodiversity throughout. Water conservation Low impact materials Water treatment & discharge Ninety percent Cornish timber, much of which was sourced from an adjoining forest, milled and air dried on site. Douglas Fir post and beam frame Health and wellbeing with Western Red Cedar roof shingles and cladding boards. Western Red Cedar does not require treatment or painting which reduces pollution and Materials maintenance costs. Sheep’s wool insulation provides 225mm in the walls and 300mm in the roof. The wool is reclaimed from carpet manufacturing by- Maintenance product. An existing building was demolished providing aggregate for the driveway and the kitchen features worktops cut from reclaimed billiard table Waste slate. Community Energy A MORSØ 8kW log stove is fuelled with wood coppiced from the eight acres of woodland which make up the property. Heat is distributed through the Features building by the ventilation system so radiators are not required. Carbon neutral living – Energy Roof mounted solar photovoltaic panels with Sunny Boy grid tied inverter have generated on site equivalent to a 4.2 kW installed capacity, generating around 4,000 kWh per year which is energy consumed. approximately equal to the yearly consumption of this three bedroom house. Designed for passive performance A roof mounted, 4 m2fl at plate solar thermal collector reduces the demand on electricity for hot water heating. with sunspace, thermal mass and heat exchange ventilation. Electricity is also conserved by using energy effi cient lighting and appliances, including an induction hob. Ecoballs are used in the washing machine, Local wood used extensively in avoiding pollution caused by detergents and saving water. construction, reducing embodied energy See CSBT: www.csbt.org.uk
52 Maintenance Maintenance of buildings can reduce energy use by ensuring that the building and systems are functioning as they should
Basic design principle A low maintenance building will reduce the life-cycle impact by reducing demand To follow a design hierarchy where the for materials and extending the life of the structure performs passively, reducing building. the need for complicated gadgetry. Keep it simple and understandable to reduce the risk of system breakdown. Where Practical solutions electronic and mechanical systems are During building maintenance there unavoidable, clear and simple instructions are always opportunities to reduce should be provided for the buildings environmental impact. Choose low impact, occupants, in houses this would be low maintenance high performance referred to as a Home User Guide. materials (see the Materials section for further information). Buildings need to be assessed on their individual merits and decisions taken Repairing rather than replacing has a as to the most appropriate alterations much lower environmental impact and and improvements to make them more can preserve the character of a building. effi cient and pleasant whilst not over Less waste will be created and less material complicating the living conditions of the will be used. occupants. When rented or sold each home should Finishes should be specifi ed which are have a simple and non-technical user durable, easily repaired and require guide that covers information relevant minimal routine maintenance. to the occupants on the operation, environmental performance and Sustainability context maintenance of the home. The information should be available in alternative Maintenance of buildings can reduce accessible formats. Ideally it should also energy use by ensuring that the building include tips for sustainable living. and its systems are functioning as they should. However, maintenance and Management during the occupation refurbishment uses resources, energy stage of development will help monitor and time so it is imperative to design low environmental performance and provide maintenance buildings. vital feedback information for further improvement. Designing a fl exible building can extend its lifespan. If a building can be easily There should be a commitment to comply extended or modifi ed it is more likely to with the ‘Secure by Design – New Homes’, be adapted for other uses instead of being which will include working closely with demolished. an Architectural Liaison Offi cer or Crime Prevention Design Advisor from the local police force.
53 Historic conservation To preserve local character and historic fabric, many historic Cornish homes issues require the use of appropriate natural Good maintenance is vital to preserving slate and stone, timber windows and the historic character of Cornish buildings. breathable paints, renders and mortars. Maintaining and repairing using traditional Regular maintenance, repair, sensitive methods and materials will sustain local upgrading and re-use of materials is often knowledge of traditional, low impact more cost eff ective and more sustainable building methods. than wholesale replacement with ‘maintenance free’ alternatives. The way people use historic buildings can improve their overall performance. Small Property owners, professionals, changes can have a considerable eff ect contractors and general public such as altering use patterns, correcting should be made aware of various key any maintenance backlog (e.g. cleaning issues including: windows and light fi ttings), repairing • Heritage signifi cance and the windows and doors, making sure that relevance to this of climate windows open properly, improving change issues controls (e.g. programmable thermostats, thermostatic radiator valves), upgrading • The promotion of the sustainable artifi cial lighting and portable appliances. use and reuse of traditional Guidance should be produced by the materials including sourcing local authority to encourage property • Producing a building log book owners to sympathetically improve the as part of a conservation plan for performance of their buildings. each listed property
54 Useful links / references SPAB technical advice: www.spab.org.uk/advice/technical-q-as
A Stitch in Time - Maintaining your property makes good sense and saves money - IHBC/ SPAB: www.ihbc.org.uk/publications/ hard_copy/stitch_in_time/SPAB%20 PDF%27s%20%28D%29/Stitch%20 in%20Time.pdf
Local listings No current listings.
55 Case study Trelowarren
Scale of development Located on the Western side of the Helford Passage, the Trelowarren estate sits on a 1,000 acre site of agricultural Small land and woodland. Its 18 individual properties are shared ownership self catering holiday cottages, some restored from Type of development older buildings, some purpose built with the development. 18 dwellings plus restaurant Construction and materials All materials are locally sourced, with the proprietary timber frame helping to reduce thermal bridging signifi cantly. The cladding comprises green oak which Sustainability features requires no painting, this helps to improve the ease of maintenance associated Design with the development. Energy The walls contain 300mm thickness Warmcell insulation with U-values exceeding 0.15. The buildings all have good air tightness values to decrease the Biodiversity need for space heating further. During the construction process, buildings that were not converted were Water conservation demolished and fully recycled in order to reduce waste. Water treatment & discharge Energy effi cient design and technology Health and wellbeing A 300kW wood chip burner provides a source of hot water for the site through coppicing of the forested areas of the site. Materials Waste water is treated on site through a small bio treatment plant making Waste the community more self-suffi cient. The use of aerated taps and low fl ow appliances reduces the level of water use day-to-day. Community Local community Access, Equality & Diversity 25 people are directly employed at the site, building a local community whilst reducing the need for travel in the area. A further 25 are employed directly by T.E.L Builders – the estate owners. Features Full community integration See CSBT: www.csbt.org.uk Locally employed inhabitants On site bio treatment plant and CHP wood burner
56 Ecology and biodiversity We rely on many natural products including food, medicines and timber which are provided by biological activity
Basic design principle Biodiversity considerations in the planning and design stage should take into account To design and construct buildings and the individual nature of the site. Factors landscapes which sustain and promote which may be important include the biodiversity. ecological value of the site, how the value can be protected and enhanced and Sustainability context the potential ecological footprint of the We rely on many natural products building. including food, medicines and timber Some wildlife species are protected by law. which are provided by biological activity. This includes all species of bat, including Natural resources like clean water, healthy their roost sites, and it is illegal to damage, soil and pollination rely on healthy, destroy or obstruct access to a bat roost. functioning ecosystems. Some bird species, including the barn The built environment and its owl, are also legally protected and it is surroundings off er many opportunities an off ence to intentionally or recklessly to contribute to an increase in the take, damage or destroy the nest of any county’s biodiversity. Buildings and wild bird while that nest is in use or being their surroundings can help to provide built (Wildlife & Countryside Act and suitable habitats supporting a wide Countryside & Rights of Way Act). range of species that fl ourish in urban Badgers and their homes (setts) are environments. protected by law and it is an off ence to damage, destroy or obstruct access to a sett. Developers may be required to establish if protected species are present before building work commences and provide mitigation as part of the project.
Habitats associated with buildings can act as bridges within a wider network of connected green spaces, allowing wildlife to develop more freely. The ‘greening’ of a building can also have other benefi ts The built environment and its which enhance health and well being. surroundings off er many Embracing sustainable design and construction principles can have far opportunities to contribute to an reaching impacts on biodiversity at a increase in the county’s biodiversity local, national and international level, particularly by using timber from certifi ed sustainably managed forests. 57 Practical solutions Green roofs provide many benefi ts to ecology and biodiversity. By replacing The site should be assessed by a the footprint of the building which is lost suitably qualifi ed ecologist who can with a habitat of similar size a net loss may recommend features and design for be avoided. The type of habitat provided positive enhancement of ecology and will depend on the type of green roof biodiversity. They will also identify any installed. legally protected species present on site and advise on mitigation which can allow There are three main categories of work to progress. green roof:
Almost all sites will have some existing • Intensive - Roof gardens, similar to or potential value as wildlife habitat. gardens or parks at ground level, Site design and landscaping should usually constructed over reinforced seek to preserve or enhance existing concrete decks, normally habitats, species and features. Cornwall’s accessible, requiring frequent designated sites of nature conservation maintenance. importance are detailed in the Cornwall • Semi-intensive - Vegetated Local Development Framework. with lawns, grasses and ground covering plants; they require It is usual for new buildings to be airtight regular maintenance including and many designs will deal with this by irrigation. Moderate demands removing or sealing small gaps normally are placed upon the building found in older buildings. These gaps give structure, with occasional access bats and small birds nesting opportunities. required. Where new design criteria remove these opportunities alternative nest sites can • Extensive - Vegetation normally be incorporated as design features in consists of mosses, succulents, eaves, external walls and garden sheds. herbs or grasses. They are Sensitively designed access areas can intended to be self-sustaining also be designed into roofs of historic and not irrigated, with minimal buildings. maintenance requirements. This type is normally not accessible Where an existing building is being except for basic maintenance and converted a thorough ecological is the least demanding on the investigation should be carried out. Flora building structure. and fauna may either be using or may have the potential to use the existing building, and steps should be taken in the Green roofs also provide insulation design of the conversion to accommodate and reduce water runoff , improving the those species. performance of the building.
Installation of nest boxes for birds and Planting on façade walls has a number of bats in suitable locations can provide biodiversity benefi ts including providing valuable habitats. Consideration should additional wildlife habitat, maintaining be given to the landscaping in the vicinity cooling in summer and reducing heat loss of the nest boxes. Bat bricks with cavities in winter. Green facades include lichens, to accommodate bats can be integrated mosses, grasses, fl owering and climbing into the fabric of the building. These plants. A trelliswork that is spaced away range from simple bat access bricks to bat from the wall can be used to support non- roosting units with roughened inside faces clinging climbing plants. Native species to facilitate roosting. should be used, with preference to those resistant to predicted climate change.
58 A sustainable drainage system can be The planting and use of locally grown designed and constructed to create a building materials such as thatch, hemp, small pond or wetland for wildlife. A oak and cedar should be encouraged. This pond will provide a valuable habitat provides a locally available material source for wildlife can be an attractive feature that could be used on both modern and within a development. It should be historic buildings. positioned somewhere sunny and away from trees. The pond should have gently The alteration of agricultural and forestry sloping banks to encourage the growth practices, resulting from changes in crop of marginal plants and allow animals safe stock or species viability, could pose a risk access. to buried archaeological sites, traditional farm buildings and historic landscape. The creation of “urban habitats” can blur the distinction between urban and rural Increased rainfall could lead to drainage environment, amplifying the benefi ts of problems in historic parks and gardens. the green infrastructure network. Urban Drainage redesigned to cope with habitats can bring benefi ts not only to predicted heavier rainfall may prove even wildlife but also improve quality of life more diffi cult to integrate with historic through contact with nature and green parks and gardens. The very planting able spaces. Green roofs can provide a to cope successfully with dry summer close mosaic of bridging habitats in the conditions is likely to be at risk from water urban environment, allowing species logged soils in winter. Water logging also to permeate a whole area. In addition, destabilises trees making them more intensive green roofs assist the objective of susceptible to topple in predicted stronger providing accessible greenspace for urban wind storms. dwellers, particularly with pressures of Changes in soil moisture content could increasing density requirements. also lead to subsidence and heave aff ecting buildings and ruins. See Cornwall Wildlife Trust - Planning Good Practice Guidance Changes in temperature may also require for Cornwall: Biodiversity and a diff erent range of tree species to Geological Conservation. deliver shade in drier conditions. Warmer conditions are likely to increase the risks Historic conservation from pests and diseases: particularly for issues plant collections and structural planting. Proposals for alterations, extensions or Shelter belt re-design may be required conversions to historic buildings and sites for some parks and gardens and historic need to fully consider the biodiversity ruins in order to address uncertainties issues because the special characteristics with future wind conditions. This could of these places often means that they are have implications for buried archaeology. rich in wildlife. ‘Green carpets’ around monuments act as a dust control measure and may require Works from roof repairs, timber treatment, more robust grass species in the future. new lighting to vegetation clearance can all have harmful impacts on biodiversity. Mitigation will need to be carefully planned, timed and designed to minimise any harmful impacts, enhance potential habitats and preserve the character and special historic interest of the site.
59 Case study Patreida Barn
Scale of development The upgrade of a property in Callington set in a wooded valley near Dartmoor. The work took place in May 2008 to Small install a batch boiler, solar thermal tubes and insulation to the house. Type of development Single dwelling upgrade Insulation The property was lacking insulation, and being a traditional building without cavity walls the only practical place to insulate was in the roof. By using a recycled plastic insulation material the depletion of natural resources was Sustainability features avoided. Design Installed technology Energy In order reduce the demand for wood the south facing out-house roof has had 60 solar thermal evacuated tubes fi tted for energy collection. A Baxi 30 Biodiversity gasifying log batch boiler was installed in the out-house. This provides both heating and hot water to the house and was installed with a full set of new Water conservation radiators. Water treatment & discharge The woodland on the property provides all the fuel required, work associated with gathering fuel is up to one day per week over the year. Materials Although the installation was more expensive than a fossil fuelled solution, all Pollution fuel is free and the owners also enjoy the security and satisfaction of being able to heat their home with self suffi cient, zero carbon fuel sources. Ecology Features The land acts as a smallholding with animals living and vegetables growing, Re use of materials (recycled plastic to use the land to its maximum potential. Sustainable woodland management insulation) techniques are used when gathering fuel for the batch boiler, preserving local ecology and habitat. Use of gasifying log boiler for eff ective space heating See CSBT: www.csbt.org.uk Evacuated solar tubes
60 Useful links / references Local listings The Barn Owl Trust - Cornwall Environmental Consultants www.barnowltrust.org.uk Ecological Surveys and Consultancy The Bat Conservation Trust - www.cec.gb.com www.bats.org.uk [email protected] Five Acres, Allet, Truro, TR4 9DJ The British Trust for Ornithology - Tel: 01872 245510 www.bto.org.uk greenecology Cornwall Wildlife Trust - www.cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk Ecological Surveys and Consultancy www.green-ecology.co.uk The Royal Society for the [email protected] Protection of Birds - Carrick Business Centre, Commercial Road, www.rspb.org.uk Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 8AR Badgers on site – a guide for Tel: 01326 389 105 developers and planners. Cox, P.R (1993) ISBN 1851631682
Barn Owls on site. English Nature (2002) ISBN 1 85716 6108
Barn Owls. Various free information leafl ets produced by the Barn Owl Trust
Bats in houses. Hutson A.M.
Bats in roofs – a guide for surveyors. English Nature
61 Health and well-being it is crucial that buildings are healthy and accommodating environments
Basic design principle The health and well being of the occupants today and in the future is clearly Where existing developments have important. Whereas fashions will change, features which are appreciated by the the basic needs of having homes which occupants, care should be taken to not maximise the use of daylight, provide lose these features in adaptations as they a comfortable private space which is contribute to the feeling of well-being and well heated, ventilated and insulated general health of the occupants. are unlikely to change. In addition, the best utilisation of space around houses Sustainability context is important if predictions for a warmer Most people spend a large proportion climate are correct. of their time in buildings. Therefore, it is crucial that buildings are healthy and Practical solutions accommodating environments. Various Daylight factors contribute to this; benign non- toxic materials, natural daylight and good Natural light is essential for the health ventilation are important. However, it is and well-being of any individual. Homes just as important to ensure feelings of should meet the following standards; safety, mental well-being and happiness Kitchen to achieve minimum average engendered by the building surroundings daylight factor of at least 2%. being safe and secure, warm, well lit, with no dark alleys and where the public realms Living rooms, dining rooms and studies are overlooked but each dwelling has to achieve a minimum average daylight access to at least some private outdoor factor of at least 1.5%. space and nature. Kitchens, living rooms, dining rooms and Over time the requirements of buildings studies to be designed to have a view of change. It is important that buildings can the sky. be easily adapted to the needs of future users and the demands of future uses. Sound Insulation The buildings designed at present will Appropriate soundproofi ng is essential come under increasing pressure in future to reduce noise pollution and to ensure to accommodate the demands of new privacy for individuals. It is advised uses. Adapting buildings now, to address that sound insulation achieves a higher the likely impacts of climate change, can standard than required by Part E of avoid the costly process of demolition the Building Regulations and this is and reconstruction, which can put further demonstrated by either using post- pressure on environmental resources. completion testing (PCT) or Robust Details (RD).
62 Private Space Flexible non-residential It is important that every residential development dwelling has provision of outside space that is at least partially private, and that is Diffi culty in adapting buildings to change accessible to disabled people. often leads to their premature redundancy and subsequent demolition. Even before Lifetime Homes redundancy, failure or inability to adapt and upgrade buildings can compromise Flexible residential occupant comfort and, in commercial development buildings, reduce their productivity. Flexible residential design is focussed The pace of change in all walks of life on accessibility and design features that has never been greater. Changing work make houses fl exible enough to meet patterns, new technologies, changing whatever comes along in life: a teenager demographics and new legislation are all with a broken leg, a family member with putting new and diff erent demands on serious illness, or parents carrying in heavy buildings. shopping and dealing with a pushchair. Cornwall Council has already prepared To become more sustainable, it is Supplementary Planning Guidance important that buildings are designed to concerning “Access for All” which will accommodate changing requirements. be relevant in designing fl exible future By doing so, buildings will last longer development. and greater value will be extracted from the resources (materials) invested in the The Part M building regulations provide buildings. a baseline for designing for accessibility. “Lifetime homes” features supplement the There are four principal areas in which requirements of building regulations and buildings can be made more fl exible and/ add to the built-in fl exibility that makes or adaptable: homes easy to adapt as peoples’ lives Structural extension change. Internal fl exible space Further information on “Lifetime homes” Flexible building services is available at: www.lifetimehomes.org. Flexibility to integrate new uk which suggests that not only will the technologies occupiers of homes benefi t from Lifetime Homes, but so too will tax payers - to the Structural extension tune of £5.5 billion over sixty years. These The ability to extend buildings can be savings come from reduced expenditure important to respond to the changing on adaptations and reduced need to move business needs of the building owner people to residential care. There could also or occupier. Structural systems that can be further savings in health care and re- easily be adapted and extended should be housing costs. specifi ed.
The benefi t from Lifetime Homes to the tax payers will be to the tune of £5.5 billion over sixty years
63 Internal fl exible space Drier summers could cause an increase It is estimated that British businesses in subsidence claims in vulnerable areas. currently spend more than £2 billion per Drier summers will also stretch already year on moving people or departments fragile water resources in the south of around offi ce buildings in response to England, requiring extra resources to be organisational change. This process is created or a re-education of demand. often called churn. (See ‘Water’ section for advice on water conservation measures). Drier summers Structural issues that need to be will also increase energy demand for considered to provide fl exible internal air conditioning systems (See ‘Energy’ space include: section for advice on solar passive design for ventilation). Consideration should be The structural design (column spacing, given to features of housing designed for circulation space, stairs etc.) hot climates. For instance, Mediterranean Building footprint features such as shutters and verandas. The building envelope However, any design will also need to consider the extremes of predicted winter Flexible building services weather and arrive at a design, which balances these factors. In practice, space planning elements may have to be adapted on a much more Changing rain patterns could see an frequent basis than the building structure increase in the intensity of rainfall. Driving and IT is typically obsolescent within three rain will have major impacts on the years. In general, long-life building features suitability of some types of house facings such as the structure and fl oor plan should and cavity-fi ll insulation and give a much allow as many servicing and layout options higher risk of damp problems, especially as possible to accommodate changes in in the autumn. Hence water butts need the building servicing strategy. an overfl ow pipe into the mains drainage system. Flexibility to integrate new technologies Increasing the strength of roof fi xings Advances in new technologies are during new build or roof replacement can constant. New developments should signifi cantly reduce wind related damage. considered potential future advances Design and orientation of buildings can in technology and provide fl exibility for minimise wind damage, subsidence in delivering power, voice and data. As far clay soils, dampness from rain penetration as possible, systems should be provided and weather damage to materials. In most that are controllable and adjustable by the cases, the cost of making the necessary users without burdensome reliance on improvements to building stock will outside contractors. be much lower than the potential cost of damage. Hard structures like close Climate change boarded fences will cause more turbulence Predicted climate changes are likely to (and risk of damage) than softer enclosures have a signifi cant impact on the built such as hedging and trees. environment during this century and therefore need to be considered at an Building for Life early stage in building design. For more information go to The key changes, which are likely to be www.buildingforlife.org experienced over the coming years are as follows:
64 Sick Buildings Syndrome Oil-based paints contain up to 50% solvents; solvents are persistent and can (SBS) build up in the body causing serious Causes are frequently pinned down illness. The combination of synthetic to fl aws in heating, ventilation and air paints, chemicals in carpets and furniture, conditioning systems (indoor air quality). and lack of ventilation is now thought Other causes have been attributed to to increase susceptibility to allergies, contaminants produced by out gassing of headaches and other illnesses. some types of building materials, volatile organic compounds (VOCs or solvents), These products can also aff ect the health moulds, improper exhaust ventilation of of your building. Traditionally constructed ozone, by products of some machinery, walls need to be able to ‘breathe’. Modern light industrial chemicals used within, or impervious surface treatments, particularly fresh air intake location/lack of adequate when applied to external walls, will trap air fi ltration. water within the solid wall, preventing natural evaporation. This can lead to In Cornwall, Radon (emitted form granite damp problems, condensation and mould and some building materials) is an issue growth. and you can have your house checked for Radon by the National Radiological Board Changes in humidity and temperature (NRB). will aff ect pests and diseases. This could aff ect collections and internal furnishings See the Pollution section. and disturb wetland sites in particular. In terms of overall comfort heating may Historic conservation become less necessary although cooling may become an issue. Intrusive climate issues control equipment should be resisted Climate change will bring unpredictable with a preference for passive or minimally changes including relative humidity which intrusive methods. will have an eff ect on historic buildings. There will be a need to monitor changes closely and, as it is likely to be a gradual process, hope that remedial measures to Useful links / references vulnerable materials will be suffi cient to The Sensory Trust: accommodate them. www.sensorytrust.org.uk
Draught proofi ng existing traditional Building For Life windows can reduce noise and dust www.buildingforlife.org ingress as well as improving thermal and noise performance. Draughts can make World Health Organisation people feel cold, which may lead them to www.who.int turn up the heating and run it for longer.
Up to 90% of the internal surface of a Local listings building may be sealed with synthetic, No listings as yet. petrochemical-based coverings. Indoor environments can be up to 10 times more polluted than the external environment.
65 Case study Boswyn
Scale of development Boswyn, part of Bosence Farm, is a residential detox clinic consisting of 15 en-suite bedrooms, a lounge, dining room, Medium offi ces and other ancillary rooms. It is situated in a semi rural area on the outskirts of the village of Townshend. Type of development Residential care facility Passive performance The south facing front windows are fi tted with brise-soleil to reduce solar gain and internal temperature in summer.
Sustainability features The walls are timber framed, they are single skin construction with lime render and hemp insulation. The building foundation is a concrete slab for thermal Design storage of solar gain, allowing heat release in the cooler evening hours. Energy Low impact design Biodiversity The building has a Bauder Sedum roof. This is a green roof system, constructed using low maintenance sedum succulents. The plants are grown on a blanket Water Conservation that is harvested like turf. It protects the roof and provides insulation, aesthetic quality and ecological benefi ts, whilst also slowing water runoff . Water treatment & discharge Any trees removed from site in construction stages and wasted wood were Health & Wellbeing kept for fi rewood for the farm. All soil from before construction stage was saved and reused on site, reducing Materials transport impacts. Maintenance Energy Waste The Building CO2 Emission Rate is 56% better than the Target Emission Rate. This is achieved by using low energy lighting, high levels of insulation, and a Community Binder wood pellet boiler and a wood burning stove. Access, Equality & Diversity Community benefi ts Bosence Farm Community provides a range of services to help people maintain recovery from addiction to alcohol and drugs, benefi tting the individuals and the wider communities which they live in.
Features See CSBT: www.csbt.org.uk Low Carbon Emissions. Innovative, low impact design to promote health and wellbeing.
66 Access, equality and diversity Equality is about treating people fairly and ensuring they have equal opportunity. Diversity is about recognising that everyone is diff erent Basic design principle There are real benefi ts of delivering inclusive environments, they suit a wider Changes to existing developments and the range of people and are therefore a more spaces which surround them need to be sustainable investment. The main benefi ts mindful and inclusive of the varying needs are: of people within them. • User satisfaction - Better quality of Sustainability context experience and working environments leading to positive moral for all users. Equality is about treating people fairly and ensuring they have equal opportunity • Positive image - Organisations to access facilities and services. Diversity recognised for commitment to improve is about recognising that everyone is equality. diff erent. Equality and Diversity is about • Market Leadership - potential for creating a culture that recognises and projects to be recognised as leaders values diff erence. and award winners in this fi eld. Inclusive design integrates equality and • Cost versus benefi t - More eff ective diversity in the design process. Inclusively use of resources and less wastage from designed buildings and places can be used temporary measures or “retro-fi tting” and enjoyed, regardless of age, ability or • Employment - Greater diversity of circumstance. people employed, bringing new perspectives and approaches to Applying an inclusive approach organisations. to all stages of planning, design and construction will ensure that • Legislation - meets legal requirements. developments most closely meet the needs of the people they were designed for. There are legal obligations for employers and service providers to make reasonable adjustments to improve access for disabled people. It is easier to address these issues in the initial concept and design, than to retrofi t and incur greater cost.
67 Practical solutions Parking The following considerations should • Provision of at least 5% of parking bays be made when retro-fi tting an existing for use by Blue Badge holders. development. Please note that only • Provision of accessible staff parking. some of the following will be relevant • Provision of larger spaces for minibuses depending on scale and type of and other adapted vehicles. development. • Provision of additional priority spaces Site management for people with limited mobility who • Consideration of site levels and don’t have a Blue Badge, e.g. parents orientation. with babies and older people. • Linking indoors and outdoors through • Provision of parking layout and signage integrating building and landscape that minimises the number of choices design. people need to make and make it easy to identify transport links and help • Community consultation by involving points. local groups such as access groups, resident associations, local interest • Secure parking that is clearly visible groups etc. from the entrance. • Consideration of lone-working through • Clearly distinctive parking in terms of the use of refuges and alarms. name, colour and number. • Make recycling and refuge facilities • Parking spaces with accessible accessible to all. gradients, surfaces, signage, pick-up points for easy access buses, covered Transport waiting areas, help points and toilets. • Links with accessible public transport • Opportunity for drop-off and pick-up routes, e.g. car share schemes, by easy-access transport, taxis and community / green transport. private cars near buildings. • Pick-up points with high kerbs (for easy • Easy to use ticket and pay machines access bus pick-up), seating, routes, for people with limited mobility and shelters and toilets. dexterity. • Availability of wheelchair and access Arrival equipment for loan or hire. • Clear arrival experience / entrance, • Clear accessible transitions between transport networks and signage. buildings and transport hubs, e.g. car parks, train station, car hire and coach • Signage that includes easily park. recognisable symbols to help people that are unable to read. • Provision of assisted transport, such as buggies, as support for people with Routes limited stamina and mobility. • Ease of access and way fi nding by • Link with Shopmobility scheme. minimising the number of changes of • Clear accessible information about the level and direction. diff erent transport available to the site. • Clearly defi ned accessible routes throughout diff erent areas for assisting way fi nding including fl oor materials, directional lighting, colours, symbols and landmarks.
68 Changes in level Handrails and balustrades • Changes in level for access are • Consideration of people of diff erent minimised at every opportunity to heights (especially children) either by improve access for people with limited a second lower handrail or alternative mobility. detailing that provides hand grips at • Consideration of gradients with a diff erent heights. slope’s length, e.g. sometimes a shorter • Consideration of options for steeper slope may be preferable over a incorporating tactile information longer lesser slope. on handrails to provide directional • Provision of resting platforms on longer information for visually impaired slopes. people.
Lifts Information and wayfi nding • Accommodation for wheelchair users • Clarify of text for accessibility, e.g. text (including buttons at appropriate colours and sizes (pictorial symbols and heights, fl ush threshold, and suffi cient colours help communicate messages, door width) and visually impaired directions and information. Greater people (Braille on buttons, audio consideration of colour, tone, surface announcement). textures, landmarks, sound and other design details help people orientate). • Reliability of lift operation through a suitable maintenance programme. • Integration of communication techniques for the visually impaired, Escalators e.g. Braille, audio and good colour contrast of features and signage against • Provision of alternative access to backgrounds. some disabled people who can’t use escalators. Help points Steps • Help points that are at an appropriate height, within sight of a reception area • Provision of step design for safe and other manned station. passage and ease of use for greatest range of people, with attention given Assistance to dimensions, consistency, resting • Provision of assistance and support platforms, handrails, nosings and from staff . materials. • Scope of assistance, such as dedicated • Provision of tactile indicator strips on staff along with a range of technical the approach to steps. assistance, such as access guides, • Opportunities for resting points where pagers, assisted transport, large print longer fl ights are provided. and Braille materials, online support etc.
Ramps Means of escape / emergency • Choice of either ramps or steps (as evacuation some disabled people prefer steps). • Easy emergency procedure for all Ramps are hard work for many people groups. and their use, particularly their length, • Panic bolts at an accessible height and should be minimised as far as possible. easy to use. • Provision of resting points on longer • Accessible emergency signage. ramps. • Alarm system with use of visual beacons or individual pagers for people with hearing impairments. • Clear emergency lighting. 69 Toilets Doors • Adequate provision and functionality • Entrances are easy to locate. for a full range of users. • Doors are easy to open by people with • Door opening strength less than 20N at limited strength (consider automatic or leading edge for all doors. power assisted opening mechanisms, heights and styles of handles, heights • Avoidance of double lobby doors. of kick-plates and design of furniture). • Consideration of height and ease of • Good visual contrast between door use of handles, locks, hooks, fl ushes, furniture and background, and machines, washbasins, mirrors, hand between doors and surrounds. driers, taps, urinals etc. • Good visual clarifi cation of any • Accessibility to an alarm from within the transparent doors or picture windows toilet. at adults standing and wheelchair / • Wider cubicles for those of limited child height. mobility. • Revolving doors that are wheelchair • Easy access toilets on every fl oor and at accessible. suffi cient frequency. • Consideration of whether a door is • Floor surfaces are fi rm, level, non-glare really necessary as they can act as a and non-slip. physical barrier. • Signs are at an appropriate height for all users. Materials and fi nishes • All accessible surfaces are fi rm, level, Baby changing non-slip, non-glare and non-visually • Provision of a separate baby changing distracting. facility that is unisex and accessible to • Avoidance of loose materials falling all types of ability. onto hard surfaces and causing trip • Inclusion of private feeding facilities hazards on outdoor access routes. that is accessible to all types of ability. • Use of diff erent texture and colour to indicate changes of direction, way- Showers fi nding and sense of place. • Fully accessible showers with fl oor drainage to avoid stepped access. Restaurant and café facilities • Consideration of heights of fi ttings and • Accessibility throughout the whole ease of use of controls. range of facilities, including circulation space, counter heights, heights of • Good visual contrast between fi laments tables, sight lines, facilities for young and backgrounds. children, access to toilets, ease of ordering food etc.
70 Resting points and seating Lighting • Within public spaces, there are seats at • Avoidance of glare and long shadows. least every 50m. • Suffi cient lighting levels for people • Resting spaces and seating is accessible with hearing impairments to lip read, to all (wheelchair access, tactile routes and for people with partial sight to see for the visually impaired, hearing loop information and features. provision for the hearing impaired etc). • Provision of lighting to help create • At least 25% of seats meet the needs of visual contrast for features like elderly people. lifts, handrails, path edges etc as a • Seating is prioritised in physically useful guide for people with visual demanding areas such as gathering impairments. spaces and waiting areas. Heights • Sheltered seating is provided at • Attention to height of signs, furniture, transport pick-up points and in waiting desks, fi tments and fi ttings, balustrades, areas. notice boards, and sight lines to help Telephones ensure equality of use and experience. • Telephones are at a height accessible Leaving by wheelchair users and there are • Clearly accessible signage to transport telephones for texting that can be used links and other facilities. by people with hearing impairments. • Provision of assisted transport and staff Comfort and health design support for older or frail visitors. • Consideration of environmental Historic conservation comfort levels, such as thermal comfort levels, ventilation, natural daylight and issues acoustics. Access solutions to historic buildings • Maximum use of natural daylight should be sensitively designed and special and avoidance of fl uctuations in care is needed to ensure that the special temperature. and valuable features of historic buildings are not damaged where alterations are • Integrated social spaces to avoid required. segregating disabled visitors. • Access to outdoor spaces. • Free accessible drinking water. • Outdoor trails that encourage staff to walk and that can also be used by the local community.
Acoustics • Consideration of acoustics throughout social and work spaces within the site. • Consideration of positive sound with disruptive ambient noise levels in public spaces and the implications for the visitor and staff comfort, ease of communication and social interaction. • Provision of hearing loop systems in gathering and meeting spaces.
71 Case study Trelander Community Centre
Scale of development A community hall in Trelander, Truro; constructed with high levels of insulation and specially designed roof for maximum Medium solar collection. The hall generates electricity and hot water using photovoltaic and solar thermal technology. Type of development Public Space (Community Centre) Construction and materials The entire building is of wood frame construction using local oak for cladding purposes. Insulation levels are high in both the walls, where straw bales are used, and roof, where sheep’s wool makes a lightweight and natural alternative. Sustainability features These high levels of insulation allow for reduced space heating requirements, Design keeping the internal temperature pleasant most of the year without intensive heating; very useful for a large communal building. Energy Solar collection and reducing lighting Biodiversity requirements Health & Wellbeing The design utilises a specially angled section of roof to capture maximum solar energy. The building uses both photovoltaic (4.34kW system) and solar thermal Materials collectors for electricity and hot water respectively. The fi rst 6 months of use yielded 2334kWh from the photovoltaic panels, and 703kWh from the solar Community thermal collectors. The solar collectors have visual meters to demonstrate their energy generation capability to visitors. Features All lighting internally is fi tted with low energy specifi cation bulbs to reduce High levels of insulation in full electricity requirements. building envelope Green roofi ng Green roof helps to increase the area The building incorporates a green roof which drains into a soakaway. This helps of soil and reduce the impact of heavy to reduce the impact of heavy rain to alleviate fl ooding, removing less soil from rain the site than would be the case without. Visually promote PV and solar thermal technology through visual meters See CSBT: www.csbt.org.uk
72 Useful links / references Local listings Disability Access Provisions for Historic Stride Treglown Buildings, Robin Kent: Architects, Access Consultancy www.buildingconservation.com/ www.stridetreglown.co.uk articles/accessbcd98/access.htm [email protected] Access to Historic Church Buildings, Robin Stride Treglown, 55 Lemon Street, Kent Truro, TR1 2PE www.buildingconservation.com/ Tel: 01872 241 300 articles/churchaccess/churchaccess. htm
‘Social Toolkit’ by Sensory Trust: The Toolkit follows the RIBA stages of work for the Design and Construction Process. The Toolkit links with existing evaluation systems like BREEAM and takes legislative requirements such as the Building Regulations, the Disability
Discrimination Act DDA: and other diversity and equality as a bottom line of provision - www.sensorytrust.org.uk/projects/ reports/social_sustainability_toolkit. html
Sign Design Guide (ISBN 185878 412 3)
CADW – Overcoming the Barriers (ISBN 1 85760 104)
Building Sight (RNIB Publications – (ISBN 1 85878 074)
RIBA Good Loo Guide
Joseph Rowntree ‘Meeting Part M and Designing Lifetime Homes’
Scheme Development Standards – The Housing Corporation
Building Sight (RNIB Publications – ISBN 1 85878 074 8):
Arts Council England – ‘Disability access: a good practice guide for the arts’
Sport England – ‘Access for Disabled People’
73 Communities Reconnecting people with the place they live, and with the communities they share
Basic design principle Communities can work together to improve their shared outdoor and To consider the impact of any change to indoor spaces. Community / village halls, an existing building on the local people green spaces and communal areas are within a community and to enhance social important places for communities to come cohesion where appropriate. together. Communities can come together through a variety of ways; Parish Councils, Sustainability context Working Men’s Clubs, Village halls, local Many social issues have at their organisations and groups, e.g. Transition, route a disengagement from society. FairTrade etc. Reconnecting people with the place they live, and with the communities that share Historic conservation the place is very important. issues The following makes us feel like we Retaining and upgrading historic buildings ‘belong’: maintains a sense of local pride and identity. Maintaining the communal • National identity to Britain as a nation. utility value of historic buildings helps • Collective identity with work colleagues to maintain communities; conversion and friends. of historic community buildings should • Individual identity with friends, family ideally retain communal value. and hometown. Where there are established community Practical solutions facilities in historic buildings there is an increased value in building preservation. An ideal neighbour is someone who: Local facilities will always be the most • Is aware of the situation of other accessible and therefore the most residents. sustainable. • Respects the privacy of other residents. • Is ready to help if needed.
There are four building blocks for thriving communities: • Social infrastructure and amenities. • Culture and social life. • Voice and infl uence. • Space to grow.
74 Useful links / references Transition Cornwall has specifi c aims and objectives, which include the support of Community creative consultation in the emerging and existing Transition Initiatives Clay Country, WildWorks project in across Cornwall. It has fostered strong, St Dennis – strategic partnerships at the County www.wildworks.biz/projects/63- level, which enable it to access funding clayproject.html streams that can help grow the Transition People and Gardens – use gardening Movement. as a medium to promote physical and Transition Cornwall grew out of the highly emotional well-being – successful Transition Penwith project, www.peopleandgardens.co.uk and is working closely with the UK-wide Transition Network based in Devon, and Sensory Trust – the Transition Towns Movement. www.sensorytrust.org.uk Tel: 01726 222900 Permaculture – www.permaculture.org.uk Eden Project – www.edenproject.com Permaculture is about creating sustainable Tel: 01726 811911 human habitats by following nature’s patterns. It uses the diversity, stability and Carnegie UK Trust – resilience of natural ecosystems to provide www.carnegieuktrust.org.uk a framework and guidance for people to develop their own sustainable solutions to Community Land Trusts - the problems facing their world, on a local, www.communitylandtrusts.org.uk national or global scale. It is based on the philosophy of co-operation with nature Young Foundation – research on what and caring for the earth and its people. makes people feel they belong – www.youngfoundation.org Permaculture as a design system is based on natural systems. It is about working Community University Partnership with nature, not against it - not using Programme (CUPP) – natural resources unnecessarily or at a rate www.cupp.org.uk at which they cannot be replaced. It also means using outputs from one system as Transition Communities – inputs for another (vegetable peelings as www.transitiontowns.org compost, for example), and so minimising Transition Cornwall was founded in June wastage. 2007 as a partnership initiative working to Working together is the key - it takes a support the communities of Cornwall in lot of strain off the individual. It also is addressing two of the greatest challenges important to be well informed and if you of our time: climate change and oil can help others, spread your knowledge in depletion. Its aim is to become a hub that return. co-ordinates and catalyses the research and ideas of a diverse network of groups, People and Gardens – use gardening organisations, associates and individuals as a medium to promote physical and from the private, public, community and emotional well-being – voluntary sector. Transition Cornwall www.peopleandgardens.co.uk seeks to facilitate positive and pro-active responses to the problems we face, with Local listings the ultimate aim of creating a vibrant, No local listings resilient, low carbon Cornwall.
75 Case study Jubilee Wharf
Scale of development This two building development on the waterside in Penryn contains 12 workshops, 6 fl ats, a nursery, offi ces, community Medium hall and a cafe. Designed by ZEDfactory, the development is intended to support the local art, craft, health and social Type of development industries and bring together the local community. Mixed use Construction and materials The buildings are super-insulated with 300mm wall insulation, double glazing and attention to airtightness detailing. Glulam beams are used extensively, Sustainability features which allow the distinctive curved roof design. Reclaimed and local materials Design are used where practical and available; eco concrete is used wherever engineering considerations allow. Energy Energy effi cient design and technology Water Conservation The orientation of the buildings allow for maximum passive solar gain through Water treatment & discharge glazed areas and the residential units all have sunspace areas to collect heat. This feature, along with high insulation means that space heating costs are Materials minimised. The building utilises underfl oor heating for increased comfort and effi ciency. Maintenance Each hot water cylinder is heated by a bank of evacuated tube solar thermal Waste collectors, while additional heat and space heating is provided by a 75 kW Binder wood pellet burner. Community ZedCowl venturi eff ect heat exchange ventilation cowls ventilate the building without the need for electric fans. Four 6 kW Proven wind turbines generate Access, Equality & Diversity 7,000 kWh of per annum and the site is powered by 100% renewable electricity from the supplier Good Energy.
Features Extra considerations The site provides an array of transport options, with bus links to Penryn, Evacuated tube solar collectors and Falmouth and beyond being on the doorstep. The site also provides adequate biomass heating cycle racks to promote green transportation. Excellent location for local public transport See CSBT: www.csbt.org.uk Full building life considerations
76 Glossary
Airtightness Glulam Technically, Air Permeability and Air Change Wooden beams which can be made to Rate. A fan is fi tted to a doorway and the specifi cation by gluing layers of wood volume of air leaking from the building is together. A suitable replacement for steel measured. Units are m3(air)/hr/m2(external beams with lower environmental impact. walls, ceiling and fl oor) @ 50 Pa and m3(air)/ hr/m3(internal volume) @ 50 Pa respectively. Green Roof Any roof which has a surface that will Brise Soleil – (breez-soh-ley) support plant growth. An external sun shade to reduce the eff ect of bright summer sun, often with louvres Greywater to allow winter sunlight into the building. Water from basins, bathing and laundry. Can be re-used for toilet fl ushing. Cold Bridge A structural element of a building which Heat Pump is in contact with a cold external face and Heat pumps work like refrigerators, but a warm internal face, or any other non- in reverse. They transfer heat from the insulated pathway where heat is lost more external environment to a hot water quickly. cylinder.
Drainage Field Kennel A network of perforated pipes in granular Local term for an open waterway or leat. material allowing sewage effl uent is allowed to soak into the ground. Leat Sometimes referred to as a leachfi eld. An open waterway constructed to carry water away from a natural watercourse for Embodied energy industrial or residential use. An important consideration and part of life cycle impact analysis. The amount of Life Cycle Impact energy used to produce and transport a Total environmental impact of a material material or product. or product including extraction of raw material, energy used in production and Feed-in Tarif transport, and impact of disposal, re-use Incentive for small scale renewably or recycling. Potential for saving energy generated electricity. A slightly misleading should also be considered. name since a premium is still paid if the electricity is used on site and not fed-in to Photovoltaic the grid. See Solar Panel
77 Glossary (continued)
Pre-fabricated SUDS – Sustainable Urban Sections of a building are constructed off Drainage System site in specialist workshops, minimising Refers to techniques which mitigate waste and maximising effi ciency. fl ooding and other problems associated with water runoff from large areas of non- Rainwater Harvesting permeable surfacing. Retaining water which runs off the roof for use in and around the building. Sustainability “Sustainable development is development Recycle that meets the needs of the present Reprocessing of a material or product. without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” Re-use Bruntland Report 1987. Use a second hand material or product which does not need reprocessing. Thermal Mass Dense materials which take a lot of heat Smart Meter to warm up and subsequently are able An electricity meter which can display real to release a large amount of heat if the time consumption and communicate with temperature drops. Commonly thermal the electricity supplier. mass in buildings is provided by block, brick and concrete although it can also be Soakaway water. An area designed to allow rapid permeation of surface water. Also used to TRADA describe a drainage fi eld. The Timber Research and Development Association. Solar Panel Also known as Solar Cell, Solar Thermal VOC or Photovoltaic. A solar panel is a device Volatile Organic Compound. A chemical which is used to convert energy from the compound which evaporates at room sun’s rays into electricity. The panels can temperature. Found in many materials also be used to heat water (Solar Thermal). used in construction, most signifi cantly in fi nishing elements such as paint and Solar Thermal carpet. See Solar Panel
78 79 For more information Email: [email protected] Tel: 0300 1234 151 www.cornwall.gov.uk/greenbuilding
If you would like this information in another format or language please contact: Cornwall Council, County Hall Treyew Road, Truro TR1 3AY Telephone: 0300 1234 100 Email: [email protected] www.cornwall.gov.uk
Printed on recycled material. Information correct at time of printing. JN26108 Sept 10