Explore the Netherfield Estate retrofit project, enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability for 302 homes in Milton Keynes through SHDF Wave 1 funding.
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Keegans are working with our sister company ,ECD Architects, on the retrofit of 302 homes on the Netherfield Estate in Milton Keynes. The homes are owned by the council, but we are working for Mears Group, who are appointed to deliver this retrofit, which has funding through the SHDF Wave 1. We supported Mears in their successful bid and are now involved in detailed design work. The homes were built in the 1970s and are timber framed.
Initial dimensional surveys accompanied by Retrofit Assessments of the homes and some limited opening up works gave us a good understanding of the construction and condition of the flats and houses, as well as their occupants. This allowed us to start initial energy modelling of archetypes, to understand the areas of the buildings’ fabric that were losing most heat, and hence where our attention should be focussed. While all homes have been modelled in SAP, we also checked a few properties in more detail using PHPP. A particular benefit of this was in creating clear graphical output demonstrating the energy reduction impact of the proposed measures.
This meant we could discuss stages of retrofit and options with the client at an early stage, with proposals backed up by actual energy savings. We looked at the cumulative impact of a range of measures, as well as options for some elements of the design. Along with our sister company, ECD Architects, we provided two designs for the rear façade, providing both energy saving and costs information for the works, allowing the client to make an informed decision.
The Netherfield Estate is a non-designated heritage asset, so we have actively engaged with the local authority planning department, including their Conservation Officer, to find the best way to provide warmer homes, that are cheaper to heat, without damaging the appearance and consistency of the estate as a whole.
The Netherfield Estate retrofit project is a prime example of how innovative design and careful planning can achieve sustainability goals while respecting heritage. By improving energy efficiency for 302 homes, Keegans and ECD Architects are contributing to a greener future for Milton Keynes.
People who worked on this project
Services you may be interested in
Our Elmhurst qualified, TrustMark registered Retrofit Coordinators, Assessors, Designers and Evaluators have the skills and experience necessary to enable our clients to achieve full compliance under PAS 2035.
Sectors we work in
This is a core sector for us, working for numerous local authorities, housing associations, private managing agents and developers, ensuring residents are at the heart of every project.
What does Retrofit mean?
The UK Government has identified the retrofit of buildings as a key lever in their low carbon strategy to achieve 68% carbon reduction by 2030. All affordable homes will be required to achieve a minimum EPC of C by 2030. All ECO funded refurbishment projects are required to achieve full compliance with PAS 2035:2019 from July 2021 with a 20% funding uplift for projects that comply before the deadline.
PAS 2035:2019 (Specification for the Energy Retrofit of Domestic Buildings) is revolutionising the refurbishment of buildings. Over the last 30 years energy efficiency programmes have focussed on single measures (i.e.: cavity wall insulation or window replacement, etc.) but all future programmes now require a holistic solution designed to suit the specific building type.
To comply with PAS 2035, a qualified Retrofit Coordinator must be employed to provide a 'Whole House Retrofit' solution.
September 2021 - 2023
£12,000,000
JCT D&B
Shortlisted: Unlock Net Zero Live Awards 2023 – Collaboration of the Year Category
Finalist: Constructing Excellence Awards 2024 – Regeneration & Retrofit Category
Finalist: Unlock Net Zero Live Awards 2024 – Green Homes Upgrade of the Year Category
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