As part of the planning approval process, often new developments can have conditions attached to their consent to build. Sustainability is more than often the reason behind many conditions that we now see on planning approval notices.
The design and installation of a complex building system can be a challenge further along the development timeline that is often overlooked. At a newly built apartment building in Manchester - we were challenged with a green / blue roof surface water attenuation system (that was missing).
A design team was formed which included collaboration with drainage consultants, structural engineers and drainage product manufacturers to investigate, calculate, design and install a 'retro-fitted' roof water retention system This was because the planning conditions limited the building's water discharge flow rate.
The retro-fit drainage system was a significant capital expenditure for the building owners, something that was should have been considered when initially under construction. However the scheme subsequently achieved authority approval and improved the life-cycle and thermal properties of the whole building.
Other similar projects focused around sustainability have included; Electric Vehicle (EV) charge points associated with units on an apartment complex and ground source heat pumps designed for homes on a new housing development site.
Working alongside your contractor on any complex building project and acting as oversight for the client is recommended. The support of a surveyor can benefit in determining outcomes of the project, the value for works and the timescales to completion.
Comments