The Sill

Planning Application for the demolition of existing National Park Visitor Centre (D1),
Offices (B1), Retail (A1) and Caf (A3) and 79 bed Youth Hostel (Sui Generis) and
associated car parking, and redevelopment of site as new Landscape Discovery
Centre incorporating Exhibition Space (D1), Retail (A1), Caf (A3), Offices (B1) and
86 bed Youth Hostel (Sui Generis) together with 87 Permanent Car Parking Spaces,
93 Overflow car parking spaces, associated landscaping, substation and crossing
point across the B6318 Military Road, pedestrian ramp within the roadside ditch and
formation of pedestrian refuges and route within wooded copse.
Application situated at land South and North of the B6318 at Once Brewed, Haydon
Bridge, Northumberland, NE47 7AN

Building Services
Scheme Design

Building Services Scheme Design

RIBA Stage D
The Sill

Document: 473949-RPT-004-P1

Contents

Northumberland National Park

Authority

December 2013

This document has been issued and amended as follows:

Version

Date

Description

Created by

Verified by

Approved
by

P0

16/12/13

Preliminary Stage D Report

Timothy Howarth

Draft

Draft

Draft

Draft

Yaser Solati
P1

19/12/13

Preliminary Stage D Report

Timothy Howarth
Yaser Solati

1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
1.10

Design Approach
Utilities & Incoming Supplies
Load Assessment
Mechanical
Plumbing and Drainage
Electrical
Sustainability Strategy
BREEAM
Energy Strategy
Codes & Standards

1
2
3
4
10
11
17
18
18
21

The Sill

Building Services

1.1

Design Approach

MEP Scheme Design Report

Introduction
This section of the report has been produced to indicate the Building Services Engineering scheme
design proposals which have been considered for the development and upon which the space
planning of the building is based.
Its purpose is to inform the client of the Building Services proposals and clarify any Stage D design
development that impacts the Building Services design.
The report captures the information exchanged with the design team that has enabled space planning
to be carried out in relation to the Building Services elements.
This report makes various assumptions with regards to the principal plant and systems to be adopted
for the buildings and takes into account the various development specifications for potential tenants
which have provided through the client.
Project Description
The Sill project aims to develop a Landscape Discovery Centre and a new YHA Youth Hostel. The
development will comprise a floor area of about 2,500 m on two levels and will be located in the
Northumberland National Park and the Hadrians Wall Heritage Site.
The proposed development will replace the existing 79-bed Once Brewed Youth Hostel and National
Park Centre and will include:

Visitor facilities caf/dining (and associated kitchen), bar, small retail area, reception, toilets and
washrooms;

Education facilities two education rooms with AV equipment and zoned lighting to support a
variety of teaching configurations;

Back of house facilities office and staff areas with storage;

YHA Hostel 28 bedrooms, self-catering kitchen, laundry, linen store, luggage store and drying
room.

Staff accommodation bedrooms, lounge, kitchen and washrooms;

Others Library/quiet room and games room.

Existing Northumberland National Park Centre at Once Brewed

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1.2

MEP Scheme Design Report

Utilities & Incoming Supplies

LPG Gas
There is no natural gas infrastructure in the vicinity of the development. As a result, a new liquefied
petroleum gas (LPG) bulk storage system will be provided. The above ground storage tanks (2 x
2000L) will be located in the car park area near the entrance and accessible to road tanker.
LPG bulk tanks are normally filled to 87% of their capacity as this allows sufficient vapour space above
the liquid level for the propane to expand and contract with changes in temperature.
The bulk tanks have been sized to provide at least 6 weeks gas storage at a normal rate of gas
consumption rate to ensure security and continuity of supply. The normal rate of gas consumption
includes the gas consumed by the kitchens (Caf, Catering, Self-Catering and Staff) plus any assistance
provided by the LPG boilers to the main building heating load.
Should the Biomass boiler cease functioning for an extended period (a long lead time on a replacement
part for example), the bulk tanks will provide 3 weeks of gas storage when supplying the entire
building heating demand.
Distribution from the bulk storage tanks will be via buried pipework. The below ground pipework
will run from the bulk storage tanks directly to the main plant room and from there continue below
ground around the rear of the site to service the main kitchen facilities. The pipework will be
contained within plastic service ducting below ground and include a below ground entry service
fitting into the plant room and each kitchen. The LPG boilers and kitchens shall be sub-metered with a
pulsed outlet type secondary gas meter with input to the BMS.
Allowance will be made for a remote meter display located within the reception area of the building to
meet with the BREEAM Excellent requirements.
Where gas supplies are required to serve appliances within the building and internal distribution
pipework is routed through a ceiling void that is used as a plenum for an air distribution system, the
pipe work installation will be pipe in pipe and will be ventilated to a safe place.
Automatic gas shut off valves will be installed in the following locations:

After kitchen secondary meter (activated by local knock off button, manual reset).

On gas supply to each boiler (activated by fire alarm system, local knock off button or
fusible link, auto reset).

After the catering and caf kitchen secondary meters and interlocked to the kitchen
exhaust/make-up air fans to cut off gas supply on failure of either fan.

Electricity Supply
Information on the existing electrical supplies in and around the development has been obtained by
Groundwise which indicates that there are currently HV and LV cables in the vicinity of the building.
The existing site has been provided with a 20 kV single phase supply fed from the Northern Powergrid
(NP) HV network currently installed in the Sill area.
A 140 kVA pole mounted transformer provides the LV supply to the local area via a combination of
underground and overhead lines. There is currently a Northern Powergrid initiative to underground
the remaining LV overhead lines in the area. NNPA have communicated that they would like any
undergrounding exercise performed by NP to be coordinated with The Sill construction programme.

The recommended and NNPAs desired course is to upgrade the local transformer capacity in order to
cater for the increase in electrical demand created by the electric charging points (see 1.3.2 Electrical
loads).
Two power supply options are available to the NNPA and are as follows:
1.

Upgrade the existing 1 ph. HV line to 3 ph. and install a new transformer.

2.

Retain the existing 1 ph. HV line and upgrade the transformer only.

Based on budget estimates of the above options, relocating and upgrading the existing pole mounted
transformer to a ground mounted equivalent will provide the best value for money. Any 3 ph.
equipment required for the site can either be designed out or provided with a converter so that they
can run off a single phase supply.
Northern Powergrid has indicated that a 350 kVA ground mounted transformer connected to the
existing 20 kV single phase HV line will provide a capacity of around 240 kVA. The budget cost for
this option is currently 80 105k.
The preferred transformer location identified by the design team is adjacent to the proposed LPG store.
An outbuilding will be provided to house the transformer and will be accessible by NP 24/7 with
parking adjacent.
Water
Initial enquiries with Northumbrian Water indicate that the existing properties are fed from a trunk
main off Military Road. There is a statutory easement of 3m either side of the main. As there will be
ground and foundation works within this easement options exist to either protect the water main or
divert it. Diverting the main will be the cheapest and easiest option.
Northumbrian Water (NW) are currently arranging a visit the site and attempt to trace the line of
existing main to provide the exact location and depth of the main to the design team. The existing
drawings are very rough at best. Once this information is available NW and CH2M will discuss
options for diverting the water main so that NW can provide a budget cost for the diversion and site
connection.
It is assumed that NNPA will provide the trenching and NW will lay the diverted water main. The
new service connection to The Sill water tanks will be coordinated at the same time.
Other potential issues include the private water main connection to the North which will need to be
managed by NNPA with NW providing advice. NW has confirmed that the Twice Brewed Inn is not
fed off this main. The existence of any other private lines off this main is unknown at this stage and
may not be discovered until the site works commence.
A preliminary load assessment of the development has indicated that the mains water demand will be
similar to that required by the existing building.
The main water supply will terminate in an agreed position with a stopcock and pulsed output type
water meter.
Allowance will be made for the main incoming water supply meter to have a remote display located
within the reception area of the building. Allowance will also be made for a water leak detection
system to identify any major leaks both within the building and between the site boundaries. These
provisions are required to meet the BREEAM Excellent requirements.

The Sill

Sewers/Drainage
Information on the existing sewers and drainage in and around the development has been provided by
Northumbrian Water. There are no waste or surface water sewers located in the vicinity of the
development. Therefore an on-site waste water treatment plant will be provided.
CH2M has provided a rough estimate of the rainwater and drainage loads to Patrick Parsons to
incorporate into their design package. Under slab drainage systems also form part of this package
where CH2M have provided the stack and drain locations to Patrick Parsons.

MEP Scheme Design Report

1.3

Load Assessment
Mechanical Loads
Mechanical load calculations using IES thermal modelling software suggests an overall building
heating load in the vicinity of 350 kW or 125 W/m2. This includes steady state heat losses, ventilation
to the kitchens and building and domestic hot water.
Electrical Loads

Telecommunications
The Groundwise survey on the existing installed services indicates that BT is the only company with
Telecommunication plant in the vicinity of the site.
Following our initial discussion with BT, a formal application was made by CH2M for the
disconnection and diversion of all the existing installed BT equipment affected by the new
development.
The quantity surveyor should allow a fixed lump sum for the cost of disconnection of all relevant
cables and equipment by BT.
New telecom services will be provided by BT for the new development during the construction stage.

Two power supply estimates for The Sill have been provided based on the electrical load demand
either including or excluding the electric charging points required by Newcastle Council. The results
from the two estimates are as follows:
1.

140 kVA Excluding electric charging units

2.

240 kVA Including electric charging units

In order to future proof the development and meet the Newcastle Council requirements for electric
vehicle charge it is recommended to provide for the higher electrical load demand.
As the existing supply to the site will not be sufficient to supply the new development so an upgrade
to the existing supply is required to satisfy the new electrical load demand. This is covered in more
detail under 1.2.2 Electrical Supply.
The electrical load demand schedules were based generally on the BSRIA (Building Services Research
and Information Association) Rules of Thumb 5th Edition figures for the various types of installation.
Where more detailed information was available, such as for the catering and caf kitchens, the more
accurate load estimates have been used.
Water Demand
Preliminary water load calculations have been carried out that indicate the total load for the
development is in the region of 20,100 litres/day. This is split between the buildings as follows:
Hostel

4,850 litres/day

Visitors Centre

15,250 litres/day

The above figures are based on the BS 8542.

Drainage Loads
Preliminary Drainage load calculations have been carried out that indicate the total load allowance for
the development is in the region of 18,090 litres/day. This is split between the buildings as follows:
Hostel

4,365 litres/day

Visitors Centre

13,725 litres/day

Drainage load is based on industry rule of thumb 90% of water consumption.

The Sill

1.4

MEP Scheme Design Report

Biomass

Mechanical
Low Pressure Hot Water (LPHW) Heating
LPHW will be generated by a biomass boiler and two high efficiency LPG fired condensing boilers.
The LPG boilers will support the biomass boiler when the heating demand exceeds its capacity or act
as back-up should the woodchip store run dry.

The following section discusses the biomass fuel store strategy as it is currently designed and presents
an option for increasing the volume of the store as recommend by one of the local biomass suppliers.
The volume of the store should be based on what the NNPA will consider as an acceptable time
window between deliveries and reserve capacity (or time to when the fuel store runs dry once 30m3 of
wood chip has been consumed). Any increase in fuel store volume will be captured as part of the
Stage E design stage.

A provisional selection of a Froling 110 kW biomass and 2 No. 175 kW Hamworthy floor standing
vertical condensing gas boilers has been made to meet the building heating load.
The products of combustion from the boiler plant are proposed to be discharged to atmosphere by
twin wall stainless steel flues which will terminate a minimum of 1.5m above roof level.
Primary pumps will be provided to circulate the LPHW to a low loss header. The LPHW will then be
distributed by separate pump sets to either serve underfloor heating, radiators or domestic hot water
(DHW) calorifier vessels. Each circuit will be provided with duplicate pump sets incorporating
variable speed inverters operating in conjunction with 2-port valves and pressure differential controls
to allow the pumped water volume to vary according to heating demand.

Woodchip Store showing spring blade agitator and feed screw

There have been discussions with various biomass suppliers with regards to the wood chip store and
delivery strategy; two main recommendations were made.

Biomass Boiler
All concealed pipework that cannot be used as a means of heating shall be thermally insulated in
accordance with the Non Domestic Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Compliance Guide May
2006 1st Edition and identified in accordance with the system specified in BS 1710.
The variable temperature (VT) LPHW circuit shall serve the following:

Underfloor Heating: Will be provided to the YHA and Exhibition Centre communal areas.

Radiators: will be provided to the YHA bedrooms and to the back of house areas such as
offices, bathrooms and corridors.

Heater Batteries in Air Handling Plant: will be provided for the 3 main central ventilation units
and 2 make up air systems for the Catering and Caf kitchen and the public bathroom
ventilation unit.

1.

Ensure long radius bends on the pneumatic pipe into the fuel bunker in order to prevent
blockages

2.

Increase the height of the fuel store to 3 or so metres. The current height is 2.3m (the average
between 2.2 and 2.5 as the roof slopes)

The graph on the following page shows the annual estimated energy use of the biomass boiler broken
down by month. Please note that this estimate uses a considerable number of assumptions on the
operation of the building, temperature set points and occupancy hours. Despite the best efforts of the
designer, it is common for actual energy consumption to be double that predicted by energy models
such as the one used here.
A delivery of 30 m3 of woodchip is roughly equal to 25,000 kWh. During the heating season the
estimated woodchip consumption hovers around 50,000 kWh from November through to March. This
is equivalent to two 30 m3 deliveries per month or once every two weeks. Over summer the time
between deliveries stretches out to between once every 3 weeks or once per month.

The Sill

MEP Scheme Design Report

time and increase the delivery window slightly. A final option would be to install a radar level sensor
within the woodchip store which could accurately estimate the wood chip level remaining within the
fuel store.
The recommended strategy given by the biomass supplier is technically difficult but not impossible to
achieve. A third split level would need to be installed at the plant room level in order to accommodate
the increased height of the fuel store. The CH2M recommendation would be to try and increase the
plan area of the fuel store rather than the height. It would be best to avoid dropping the height of the
plant room, given that the plant room is the primary route of all the main services into the building,
Ventilation
This section describes the ventilation strategy for The Sill which includes natural ventilation,
mechanical heat recovery ventilation, kitchen exhaust and make up air systems, WC ventilation and
plant or boiler room ventilation. The Sill is using a mixed mode ventilation strategy which uses
natural ventilation during summer and mechanical ventilation over winter.
Natural Ventilation
The Sill will use a system of operable windows driven by electronic actuators and automatic controls
to provide comfort cooling and ventilation to the building during the summer months.

Annual Woodchip Consumption

The table below shows a comparison between the current fuel store volume and the recommended fuel
store volume. During winter with the current biomass fuel store volume, the NNPA will have
between 3 4 days reserve capacity. With 17% reserve capacity this is a little beneath the
recommended minimum of 20%.

Electronic window actuator - Top hung outward opening

Fuel Store Comparison

With the recommended strategy (2.8m height or a 0.5m drop in floor level from existing), the NNPA
will have 11 - 12 days reserve capacity. This is equivalent to 34% reserve.
Note that the LPG boilers can fire in place of the biomass boiler if the wood chip store runs empty. As
the LPG boilers are supporting the biomass boiler they are expected to provide about 20% of the
annual heating demand.
An initial strategy could be to arrange the deliveries to occur twice a month over winter and once a
month over summer irrespective of fuel store level. As the NNPA become more experienced using the
biomass system and begin to collect energy consumption data, these delivery windows could be
adjusted to suit.
There will be a heat meter attached to the biomass boiler which can be used to estimate the quantity of
wood chip used since the last refill. It could be roughly used to program each fuel delivery. For
example 30 m3 of woodchip is roughly equal to 25,000 kWh. Every 25,000 kWh cycle the meter could
be raise an alarm to signal that it is time to book a wood chip delivery. We would recommend raising
the alarm a couple of days before the 30m3 volume is consumed in order to allow for delivery lead

An automatic control system will ensure that the faade windows will automatically open and close by
incremental amounts according to individual fixed values for the desired room temperature and/or
CO2 levels. Measurements of external temperature, rain and wind speed together with the actual
levels of room temperature and CO2 will form the basis for controlling the indoor climate. During
summer months the control system will also be programmed to utilise a night cooling strategy to precool the building in anticipation of a particularly warm or busy day.
The communal YHA and exhibition areas will take advantage of the natural stack effect produced by
low level openings in the faade and high level openings in the atrium. This system will encourage
cross and stack ventilation which uses either wind pressure differences or the natural buoyancy of
warm air to drive the natural ventilation process.
The natural ventilation system will consist of:
-

Window motor actuators either pre-installed or installed on site to the operable windows
identified for natural ventilation on the Architectural Elevations.

Combined temperature and CO2 sensors installed to the main areas of the building including the
exhibition areas, caf, retail area, reception, classrooms, catering dining area, lounge/self-catering
kitchen and offices (x3).

The Sill

MEP Scheme Design Report

Keypads within each space identified to provide a manual override for local users.

Class F7 bag filters to supply and extract air sides

Central touch screen controller.

Variable speed rotary heat exchanger of 85% thermal efficiency, purge and bypass section

Externally mounted weather station to collect climate information on temperature, rainfall, wind
speed and wind direction.

LPHW heating coil to temper the supply air to 20 22C

Demand controlled ventilation via CO2 sensors (sensors installed under natural ventilation
package)

Shut off isolation dampers

Cross talk attenuators to the YHA accommodation to meet acoustic separation requirements

Thermal actuators to the local radiators (where applicable) to interlink with the natural ventilation
system and control the room temperatures to predefined temperature set points.

YHA bedrooms can be installed with either a fully automatic window actuator, a manual keypad
or simply a manual mechanism.

Mechanical Heat Recovery Ventilation

Fresh air will be supplied to the building using a central mechanical heat recovery ventilation (MHRV)
system. This strategy has been carefully chosen in order to prevent cold drafts in winter from being a
disturbance (due to open windows) as well as to reduce the amount of energy required to raise the
outdoor air to room temperature during the winter months.

A mezzanine plant room has been provided above the staff accommodation and drying room area for
AHU-1 and 2 MHRV units. The plant room will be accessible from the stairs through a small
maintenance door. There is a restricted head room of 1900mm within the plant room and 1600mm
clear below the structural beams. Depending on the height of the MHRV units they may need to be
knocked down into smaller sections or flat packed and rebuilt in situ within the structural bays.
AHU-1 and 2 will be controlled via CO2 demand based ventilation so that when the operable windows
are closed (due to rain, high wind speed or cool outdoor air temperatures) the units will be activated to
ensure the internal CO2 concentration is maintained within 800 1000 ppm.
AHU-3 provides extract ventilation to the communal and ensuite bathrooms within the YHA at a rate
of between 10 and 15 air changes per hour (ACH) or 8 12 l/s per ensuite bathroom. Relief or makeup
air is provided to the bedrooms and corridors so that the airflows can be balanced across the MHRV
unit to ensure effective heat recovery. This system will operate 24/7 365 days per year and can operate
whether or not windows are left open or closed.
Commercial Kitchen Ventilation
A full commercial supply and extract system will be provided to the Catering and Caf kitchens. The
systems will be designed and installed in full compliance with the best practice recommendations of
the CIBSE and the HVCA in particular document DW 172.

MHRV unit with rotary heat exchanger

The fresh air quantities are being provided in accordance with Part F 2010 Means of Ventilation, table
6.3 Ventilation of other buildings and spaces. The expected peak occupancy of the various spaces
within the building have been communicated and discussed with the NNPA and YHA who have
approved the strategy.
The MHRV units will consist of the following:
-

AHU-1: 2000 l/s @ 200 Pa to the South side of the YHA and Exhibition Centre

AHU-2: 2000 l/s @ 200 Pa of the North side of the YHA and Exhibition Centre

AHU-3: 1000 l/s @ 200 Pa to the YHA staff and accommodation areas.

The units will include the following components:

-

Vibration isolated direct driven axial centrifugal fans with EFF1-rated motors

Frequency invertors for variable pressure and airflow control

Commercial kitchen combined supply and exhaust canopy

The Sill Catering and Caf kitchen fall under the Light establishment category which includes pub &
bar food, small cafes and coffee/tea shops. However as the kitchen discharge cannot be at high level
(above the roof line) the category will need to be raised to a Light/Medium level of filtration.
At a Light/Medium filtration category it is recommended to use a simple baffle filter and to consider
using an ultra violet or UV filter. A UV filter has been included in the canopy/system selection for
both kitchens as it will drastically reduce the fire risk in downstream ductwork and will effectively
destroy 99% of large grease particles and eliminate odours reasonable well. This is important

The Sill

MEP Scheme Design Report

considering the use of oil deep fryers in these kitchens and the risk of re-entrainment of the kitchen
exhaust plume into the building via the operable windows used in the natural ventilation strategy.
A HEPA and activated carbon filtration system was also considered, however on review of the
establishment category and isolation of the rural site from surrounding buildings, this option for
additional filtration was considered to be excessive. They are generally not recommended until the
kitchen reaches a High or Very High establishment category which might be a large high output fast
food restaurant in close proximity of a residential area (at high risk of receiving odour complaints).

The system will be ducted with the system designed, manufactured and installed in accordance with
HVCA DW144. Supply and extract ductwork will be un-insulated. Supply and extract devices within
the WCs will be circular valves/appropriate grilles and diffusers to suit the individual air volumes.
Plant Room Ventilation
High and low level ventilation louvres will be provided to the boiler plant room according to
BS 6644:2011.

The UV lamps are expected to last 12,000 - 14,000 hrs under normal conditions (with regular cleaning).
This means that at an average use of 8hrs a day, the UV lamps should last approximately 4 - 4.5 years.
Replacement cost per lamp should be around 100 - 150.

DX Cooling

The Sill Catering and Caf kitchen exhaust and make-up air systems shall consist of the following:

Indoor units will be the wall mounted type as appropriate and will be installed in optimum positions
relative to the cooling load whilst considering the requirements for correct air distribution,
maintenance of equipment and drainage of condensate.

2 x Kitchen extract canopies type 304 satin polished stainless steel complete with condensate
collection channels and standing seam joints. Fully welded.

Baffle filters suitable for cleaning within standard commercial dishwashers

UV-C reaction chamber complete with interlocks and control panel

Integral insulated supply air plenum chamber with diffuser panels to deliver:

Air at low velocity into the room

Stainless steel supply air induction slots to deliver air internally at high velocity

Personal supply air nozzles to provide operator comfort

2 x Kitchen extract fans with motor external of air stream

o

EF-1: 1200 l/s @ 300 Pa Catering Kitchen extract fan

EF-2: 1200 l/s @ 300 Pa Caf Kitchen extract fan

DX-1: 3 kW Wall mounted unit with outdoor condensing unit

DX-2: 3 kW Wall mounted unit with outdoor condensing unit

The outdoor units will be located within a dedicated louvred enclosure in the mezzanine plant room.
All DX cooling will use R410A refrigerant. Refrigerant leak detection will be provided as necessary to
meet the BREEAM Excellent requirements.
Controls
Control of the building services systems within the development is proposed to be by the provision of
a BMS utilising Direct Digital Control (DDC) with remote monitoring facility. Remote monitoring
shall be via local ethernet or internet connection with a user login and front end GUI. It shall be
compatible will all modern smart phones, tablets and computers running either Windows, Android or
OS X.

2 x Make-up air units complete with F5 bag filters, a LPHW coil and fan with self-contained
controls and control unit located within each kitchen capable of adjusting the supply air
temperature set point. Interlocked with respective extract fans.
o

AHU 5: 1200 l/s @ 200 Pa Catering Kitchen make-up air unit

AHU 6: 1200 l/s @ 200 Pa Caf Kitchen make-up air unit

2 x Dishwasher extraction canopies to capture steam released from the commercial dishwashers

2 x Dishwasher canopy extract fans

Where the cooling load of a system is in excess of 200 W/m, a direct expansion (DX) cooling system
will be provided. It is anticipated that such areas will be limited to the two IT server/Comms rooms.

EF-3: 400 l/s @ 200 Pa Catering Kitchen dishwasher extract fan

EF-4: 400 l/s @ 200 Pa Cafe Kitchen dishwasher extract fan

6 x Wall mounted louvres

The BMS is proposed to comprise of a local motor control centre installed within each plant room
-

MCC-1: YHA plant room

MCC-2: Mezzanine plant room

MCC-3: Kitchen Ventilation plant room

Bathroom Ventilation
The public bathrooms will be mechanically ventilated with dedicated MHRV unit as follows:
-

AHU-4: 250 l/s @ 100 Pa Public WC supply and extract system

It shall include variable volume duplex fans, cross-flow heat exchanger with face and bypass damper,
air intake/discharge louvres, isolation dampers, panel or bag filters and attenuators as necessary.

Each motor control panel is proposed to include a DDC outstation installed and configured to provide
communication links to and from all outstations.
All items of mechanical services plant and associated sensors will be connected to and monitored by
the BMS, except where systems are purely standalone in nature or operation or where BMS connection
is not practicable at economic cost.

The Sill

MEP Scheme Design Report

The BMS is proposed to interface with the following systems:

Heating Plant/Pump System

HVAC systems

The boilers will be enabled/disable through a summer/winter demand determined by the average
outside air temperature and a month of the year calendar.

Fire Alarm system

Emergency lighting system

Security systems

Lighting control system

Main and sub meters

The exact detail of the systems to interface and the level of interface will be confirmed at Stage E.
The full Building Management System (BMS) will include, full zone controls and compensation where
applicable; frost protection and night set-back; optimisation and energy monitoring and targeting.

The pumps and exchanger control will be hardwired to stop/close under a system low pressure
condition as sensed by a static pressure switch. The exchanger control will be hardwired to close under
a system high pressure condition as sensed by a static pressure switch.
Pressurisation Units
The packaged pressurisation units will comprise all necessary control and pump starter equipment
including its own pressure controls and switches. The pressurisation unit will be monitored for the
purpose of indicating a common fault and common running condition. In the event that the common
run status indicates a pump running continuously for more than a set period, an alarm will be raised
indicating that a leak may be occurring.
Miscellaneous Systems

The BMS performance objectives will include the following:

The following systems will be monitored for normal/fault/alarm conditions:

Reduce energy consumption wherever possible

Water Conditioners

Ensure environmental conditions are achieved

Temperature Maintaining

Ensure standby systems are automatically activated on duty failure

Fire alarms

Log and transmit energy, gas and water usage data

Disabled Toilet Local Alarm Panels

Monitor all systems for run and fault condition

Panic Alarms

Provide multi-level alarms for fault conditions

Door Access Control Panel

Provide safety shutdowns where equipment fault could lead to damage or injury

Intruder Panel

Log plant-run hours (duty and standby motors)

Provide historical operating data to assist with energy management tasks and fault finding

Provide interlocks with the fire safety systems as required

Provide de-centralised networked outstations to reduce field wiring requirements

Provide a system capable of being viewed over a secure http link from any web browser

Raise alarms in relation to Fire Alarm, Intruder Alarm, Disabled Call Alarm and Plant run and
fault alarms, generation alarm, lift alarm. Alerts to be sent via SMS and e-mail

Monitor energy usage, temperature, flow rate, pressure, leak detection (water and refrigerant)

A weather station for the purposes of reporting external conditions

Sub-meters will be installed to separately monitor all substantive energy uses including (where
present) space heating, major fans, lighting and small power and other major energy consuming items.
Controls Configuration
The following plants and systems will be configured as outlined. The full controls design, software and
operational description will be developed further by the control specialist and be issued for final
approval prior to any site progress.

Environmental Control
Room sensors will be combined CO2 and temperature sensors and will be configured with high/low
and out of range alarm limits. The high/low values will be appropriate to any units operating set point
and include system start-up and transient delays.
Metering control via BMS
Electrical, gas, heat and water meters will be monitored for energy recording and targeting of the
building in accordance with Building Regulations and CIBSE TM39:2006.
Energy meters will be provided complete with flow/return sensors, water flow meter and energy
analyser for display of information and to allow meter interrogation through an Automatic Metering &
Targeting system via a network connection.
Electrical meters will be provided complete with CTs, Fuses and analyser for display of information
and to allow meter interrogation through the BMS via a network connection.
Pulse Meters (Water and Gas) will be provided with a pulse total scaled to match the meter display,
connected to the BMS. The BMS will count/extract the ongoing meter totalisation readings and
store/display the values on a daily, monthly, quarterly and annually basis.
If communication between the BMS and any network meter is lost then the failed unit will be indicated
as off-line and an alarm raised for the associated unit.

The Sill

AHU Ventilation Systems

Each air handling unit will generally operate around CO2 levels or user enabled control. When
enabled, the AHUs will provide tempered air into the building.
Filters will be monitored by differential pressure switches to indicate clean/dirty conditions. All units
will be hardwired interlocked to the building fire alarm system.
The unit serving the kitchen area will provide a hardwired local air flow interlock for interfacing to
any local kitchen gas safety system.
Plant Replacement Strategy
All items of plant which may require replacement are of a size that can be transported, or broken down
to be transported through the plant room doors. Any broken down items will need to be rebuilt once
transported within the plant room.

MEP Scheme Design Report

The Sill

1.5

Plumbing and Drainage

Plumbing
From the incoming water meter, mains water will extend to serve watering points, heating plant,
domestic hot water and the potable water storage tank.

MEP Scheme Design Report

Above ground drainage from sanitary fittings and equipment will be routed to connect into the new
below ground network at suitable locations.
The rainwater drainage system forms part of the Architectural package of work.
Rainwater Harvesting

Mains water metering will be provided interfaced with the BMS for remote monitoring of water use.
The tank will be provided with all necessary temperature and water level alarms linked to the BMS
system.

A rainwater harvesting system will be provided, to meet the BREEAM Excellent requirements, and
will collect rainwater falling on the roof for use in WC flushing, cleaning, wash down (if required) and
planting or irrigation watering.

Potable cold water pipework will be extended from the storage tank to be routed within risers,
corridor service voids and above suspended ceilings. Pipework services will be routed and valves
positioned in such a way as to avoid rooms or areas where leaks may cause considerable disruption or
damage and access for routine maintenance would cause a health and safety hazard.

The rainwater harvesting system will have a remote display located within the reception area of the
building to meet with the BREEAM excellent requirements.

Domestic Hot Water (DHW) will be generated using a 2200 L calorifier fed with LPHW provided from
the biomass and LPG fired boiler plant. DHW will be distributed at nominally 60C flow and 55C
return to serve wash hand basins, sinks and showers as required within the building. The water
heaters will be sized accordingly to meet the peak demand of the building. A secondary return pump
unit will be provided to circulate hot water and maintain temperatures.

The installation will comprise of a 20,000 L underground tank to which the rainwater pipes are
directed. The tank will have an overflow connected to the main drain so that if the tank is full the
rainwater can still be drained. Water is then pumped from the main tank into a packaged make up
and booster unit where the rainwater is distributed to the day tank to the WCs. nIn the event of the
main underground tank being dry then the packaged make up is unit topped up with mains until the
following rainfall.

All hot water outlets (excluding the cleaners sinks and catering sinks) will be provided with hot water
outlets with fail safe lockable thermostatic blending valves limiting maximum temperature to 43C to
prevent scalding.
The new water installation will comply with current legislation including but not limited to the Water
Regulations and HSE Approved Code of Practice L8 relating to Legionella, BS 8558, BS 6465 and can be
installed and commissioned in accordance with the provisions of the Health and Safety Commission
Code of Practice for the prevention and control of Legionella. The entire hot water service will be
chlorinated and sterilised on completion of the works.
Drainage
The foul water drainage system serving the building is proposed to take the form of primary vented
gravity systems designed in accordance with the requirements of British Standard BS EN 12056 and
the Building Regulations Approved Document Part H. An appropriate number of stacks will be
located in each of the toilet areas.
Drainage stacks are proposed to be installed in lightweight cast iron pipe work and fittings utilising
ductile iron mechanical couplings. Exposed run-outs are proposed to be installed in copper pipe work
and fittings which will be standard finish in all areas. Concealed run-outs are proposed to be installed
in PVCU.
All stacks will drop down through the building and connect to a drainage point within the ground
floor slab. Adequate access will be provided at each floor level and all changes in pipework direction
to facilitate access for the removal of obstructions. All stacks will ventilate to atmosphere at roof level
to ensure control of pressure within the system. Only in extreme circumstances will the use of
Automatic Air Admittance Valves (AAV) be permitted and only in strict accordance with the
requirements of the Local Building Control Officer.
The catering kitchen will be provided with foul drainage as required by the kitchen designer. It is
assumed that any grease interceptors will be supplied by the kitchen fit-out contractor and be located
adjacent each item of equipment at floor level.

10

Typical rain water harvesting arrangement

Fire Service
The firefighting service provision will be limited to hand held appliances and wet chemical (e.g. Ansul
R102) fire suppression in kitchen extract canopies.
Solar Thermal System
An 18 panel flat plate solar thermal collector system with drain back tank, suitable pipe gradients and
connections to the DHW calorifier shall be provided.

The Sill

1.6

MEP Scheme Design Report

Electrical

location shown on the drawings. In addition, supplies will be required to feed other miscellaneous and
the plant located at ground and roof levels.

Incoming LV Supply
The new LV service for the Visitor Centre and Youth Hostel shall emanate from the new electrical
substation intended to be opposite to the parking area. From there, Northern Powergrid shall run their
below ground cables to the new LV switch room located to the south of the building.
Electrical Load Demand
Based on the current architectural plans and the latest kitchen appliances details received from the
catering specialists, the estimated electrical demand for the Visitor Centre and Youth Hostel building is
around 200 kVA. This load also includes the electrical load requirements for 1 No. rapid and 1 No.
standard electric vehicle changing units.
LV Switchgear & Distribution

The main riser located to the north of the building will distribute sub-main supplies to the first floor
via rising sub-main cables. These in turn will supply TPN MCB distribution boards, feeding lighting,
small power and on-floor mechanical supplies.
Where required, distribution to floor boxes will predominantly be in the floor screed, with the use of
ceiling voids wherever, available. A modular wiring arrangement will be utilised for the ceiling
wiring via a plug-in lighting control system.
Each guest bedroom will be served by a dedicated RCD protected MCB board located at high level
within the guest bedroom entrance area. These distribution boards will be supplied from the submain
distribution boards located in the LV switch room utilising armoured cables on cable tray located in
the corridor ceiling void where possible.
The common area lighting and small power will also be fed from the distribution boards in the
electrical riser and wired using single core cables in steel trunking/conduit.

LV Switchgear
A dedicated LV switch room has been allocated in the ground level for YHA and NNPA areas and this
has been sized to house the main LV distribution board and the sub-main switch panels.
The switch panel will be rated to IP31 with form 4 type 2 separation.
The incoming electrical service will be terminated in a suitably rated cut-out for connection to the main
LV switchboard.
Both incoming supply to the building and outgoing ways from the main LV Switchgear shall be
protected by Moulded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs).
Meters shall be located in the main LV switch panel for outgoing supplies. Refer to the schematic for
further details.

From the LV switch room, supplies will be taken to feed separate distribution boards for retail and
kitchen areas and through the riser to serve the cafe kitchen space at the first floor level using
armoured cables on cable tray.
LV distribution for the building will be via armoured cables on cable tray.
All cable tray/basket and trunking installations will be concealed in the primary service routes within
the electrical riser cupboard and contained at high level in dedicated service voids above the false
ceiling.
The supply to the external areas will be from the same main LV switchboard within the demise. Two
feeder pillars have been allocated external to the building for the supply to all external services such as
lighting, water treatment plant, pole mounted cameras, etc.
Separate metered supplies shall be provide to each of the car charging units and be shall fed from the
LV switch room.
Standby Power / Generation
Due to the nature of the development, the building uses and the systems to be installed within the
building, back-up generation has not be provided. However, as requested by client, a provision will be
made within the main LV switchboard for the connection to a mobile standby generator to supply the
entire development should this be required.
Metering

Indicative switch panel Eaton MEM Range

LV Distribution
From the main LV switch panel, supplies will be taken to various distribution and panel boards, as
appropriate, throughout the building as detailed on the drawings. This will generally be via a network
of tray/trunking containment.
From the LV switch room, supplies will be taken to various distribution boards throughout the ground
and first floors of the building using XLPE/SWA/LSF cables on cable trays/trunkings. Distribution
boards will be located at each floor level of the building within the dedicated electrical riser in the

11

The electrical supply to The Sill project will be metered within the building LV switch room at ground
floor level as detailed on the LV Schematic. Further sub-meters will be provided within the main
switch panel to meter the supply to the mechanical plant and kitchen equipment and retail distribution
board. These meters will allow the energy consumption of these specific areas to be monitored
enabling a detailed picture of how the building functions in terms of energy usage. This will be crucial
for ensuring that the building is performing as efficiently as possible, and allow certain BREEAM
targets to be achieved.

The Sill

MEP Scheme Design Report

Lighting

External lighting will be controlled via combination of time clock, daylight sensor and manual override
switch. Due to the nature of site and to minimise the lighting pollution, it was suggested by the client
that all external lighting shall remain switched off but controlled through presence detectors.

General Lighting
The lighting systems will look to also compliment and highlight the architectural and interior design
features of the building construction and fabric/finishes, achieving good quality colour appearance and
colour rendering.
In addition to architectural and aesthetic function, the lighting installation shall assist in providing the
appropriate environment for each space, to assist in differentiating spaces, illuminate signs and
hazards, etc. as required and allow unimpeded access throughout, both under normal running
conditions and emergency situations.
The lighting systems will be energy efficient, incorporating low energy lamp sources with compact
fluorescent in the guest rooms and LED luminaires elsewhere within the building.

Illuminance Levels
Illuminance levels will be in accordance with CIBSE guides and BS recommendations. It is however,
recognised that the minimum maintained illuminance levels recommended are not always conducive
to providing levels that provide aesthetically pleasing environments and as such, the illuminance
levels applied to this building may vary with the codes. The table provides an overview of the levels
applied.
Area

Average Maintained
Illuminance Levels (lux)

Office Areas

500

Lamp colour temperatures will be in the region of 4000K, with a colour rendering index (Ra) of above
80.

Reception Desks

500

Reception Area/Entrance

200

Reflectance values shall, on average, be based on 70%/50%/20% for ceiling/walls/floors respectively.

Classrooms

300

All design and installation will be carried out in accordance with guidance set out within CIBSE Code
for Interior Lighting, current CIBSE Lighting Guides LG3 (Display Screens), LG5 (Lecture, Teaching &
Conference rooms), and LG7 (Lighting in Offices).

Exhibition Area

300

Kitchen

500

Caf & Seating

200

External luminaries shall be specified and the overall external lighting strategy shall be detailed by the
landscape architect.

Circulation Areas/Corridors

100

Dining Area

200

Lighting Control

Games Room

300

A lighting control system will be incorporated to meet current and future operational requirements. It
shall be a flexible centralised system, with individually addressable light fittings.

Linen

100

Drying Room

200

The control system shall comprise multi-channel Lighting Control Modules (LCMs), interconnected
via a structured cabling system to area controllers and to the central software.

Staff Accommodation

200

WCs

200

Staircases

150

Plant/Switch Rooms

200

Store Rooms

100

Server Room

300

Each floor shall be provided with lighting area controllers. This in turn shall supply a lighting control
module for each space, as appropriate. The lighting control module shall have 10 No. outgoing ways
to allow individual wiring of luminaries in a flexible plug-in modular arrangement. The lighting
control modules shall be provided with mains power from the associated distribution board.
Each luminaire shall include a digital Dali ballast and emergency invertor as required.
The system will incorporate energy saving features such as:

Daylight linking for perimeter rows of luminaires

Presence detection (PIRs)

Dimming control

Lighting in the guest bedrooms will be fed from the MCB distribution board located in the bedroom
entrance area. In addition, lighting will be controlled by local manual switches with an override
provided by the guest key card operated switch at the room entrance.
Lighting throughout the retail area will be served from the tenants distribution boards in accordance
with the tenants fit out specification.

12

The Sill

MEP Scheme Design Report

Emergency Lighting
Luminaire Schedule
The schedule below provide details of the proposed light fittings for different areas of the building.
Reference should be made to the relevant lighting layouts.

An emergency lighting system will be required throughout the buildings to meet the requirements of
BS5266 and Building Regulations.
The system will be in a form of self-contained, non-maintained, 3-hour battery packs generally
provided integral to the mains luminaires. In addition, illuminated exit signs with 3 hour battery backup will be provided to final exits, corridor fire doors and changes to direction, as required.
The emergency lighting design shall clearly provide illumination along such escape routes to allow
safe movement through the exit provided.
Testing of the emergency luminaires will be via a central emergency testing and monitoring facility
integrated with the lighting control system. It shall include automatic self-test and reporting to a
location to be agreed.
The emergency lighting system will be designed and installed to ensure that fire alarm call points and
firefighting equipment, changes in direction and level are adequately illuminated.
This system will cover all areas of the building, with particular attention paid to the following areas:

Escape routes

Escape Stairways

Corridors without windows

Areas without natural lighting

Areas accessible to the public during the evening

Disabled toilets over 8 seq. m area

Externally to each final exit

Small Power
Small power will be provided throughout the building to suit the client requirements and shall
comprise, in general, 3-pin switched socket outlets, isolators, and fused connections units as required.
Wherever, practicable, sockets within each room shall be on the same phase albeit they may be on
different circuits.
The cabling will be LSF stranded single core earth. Galvanised steel conduit/trunking will be used
where risk of mechanical damage may occur.
All design and installation will be carried out in accordance with BS 7671: 2008.
Dado/skirting trunking systems shall also be installed to the perimeter of larger rooms and offices, to
contain both the LV supplies and the IT/Comms to allow flexibility in use and distribution.
Wherever practicable, runs of small power services will be physically separated from the
Communications/IT network to avoid electromagnetic interference in the IT network.
Wall mounted sockets for general use will be provided around the circulation areas for cleaners
outlets. Other recessed outlets such as fused connection unit for hand dryers shall be provided in the
WC areas as required.
Fused spur outlets (switched, non-switched, flex outlets, neon indicator, etc) will also be installed
throughout the building for dedicated small power supplies to equipment as required. Larger forms

13

The Sill

MEP Scheme Design Report

of isolation required to equipment and plant shall be via localised forms of isolation, such as isolators
and/or switch fuses.
Where floor boxes are required, they shall be served by a network of screeded floor trunking system.
Power shall be provided for a leak detection system for the mains water supply in accordance with the
BREEAM requirements.
To provide longevity in performance, outlet plates (lighting as well as small power) to guestrooms
shall be of a robust material.

Automatic smoke/heat detection devices will be provided in all areas of the development. Detectors
will generally be of the optical type with spacing and locations as required by BS 5839:2004. Heat
detectors will be used in selected areas dependent upon the areas use/application.
The fire strategy report will determine if the building is to have a phased evacuation. The system will
have the facility to enable a two stage evacuation if required however, for the purposes of this report, it
is assumed that the building will be single stage evacuation, and therefore voice alarm system will not
be required. Evacuation alarms will therefore consist of electronic sounders.

All socket outlets will be protected by RCDs.

Electronic sounders will be provided throughout the building, with disabled WCs being provided
with combined sounder/beacons. The sounders will be configured to allow a phased evacuation
should the fire strategy deem it necessary. Sound levels to be 65 dBA generally or 5 dBA above
ambient noise whichever greater. Plant rooms and other areas with background noise above the
general level will incorporate xenon beacons.

Generally the outlets will be flush mounted with white plastic finish throughout.

Break glass units will be provided at all final exits and at each floor level adjacent to the staircase.

3 phase socket outlets, such as for the generator plug-in facility and connection to items of plant rooms,
shall utilise outlets manufactured in accordance with BS EN 60309. The 3 phase sockets will be of the 5
pin arrangement utilising 3P + E + N.

The standard type of cabling for wiring the fire alarm system will be agreed with the local fire
officer/building control. The current proposal is based on use of FP200 cables. All cabling will be
installed on dedicated cable tray provided within the voids for multiple runs of cable. Single cables
will be clipped neatly using proprietary PVC coated P clips at regular spacings.

Plant rooms will comprise metal clad surface mounted sockets for cleaning and maintenance purposes,
with RCD protection.

Small power requirements in the guestrooms will be supplied from the distribution board located in
the entrance to each room.
Power supply to the tenants installation of Audio/Visual system will be provided in the two
classrooms and the first floor caf area.
A separate distribution board will be provided within the retail area for future design and installation
of small power requirements by the tenant.
Fire Detection & Alarm System
This section should also be read in conjunction with the fire strategy for the project.
A new fully analogue addressable type L1 fire detection and alarm system will be provided to the
building in full accordance with the requirements of BSEN 54 and BS 5839 Fire Detection & Alarm
Systems for Buildings, BS 5588, Building Control requirements and the local fire officer.
The main fire alarm panel will be located in the reception. A repeater panel will be provided at the
NNPA office.

Automatic interlocks with all mechanical plant systems including the firemans override control panel
will be provided. The system will be linked via suitable interfaces to the mechanical services
(shutdown), gas shut off, door access system (fail safe), and lifts (return to ground) upon fire signal.
An emergency voice communications system to BS5839 Part 9 and the local Fire Officers and Building
Control requirements will be provided consisting of call stations installed at each disabled refuge
position, with a control panel linked to the Fire Alarm system and also located adjacent to the fire
alarm panel.
Communications/IT
Power supplies and cable containment will be provided for an IT and Telecommunications system as
per the IT specialists requirements.
A dedicated server room has been provided to house the IT /Comms panels and the associated cable
containment.
The server room and associated new active equipment is to be equipped, installed and terminated in
accordance with IT specialists design and specifications.
All field wiring will be routed from the communications cabinets within the main server room via
cable baskets and conduits installed throughout the risers and within the ceiling voids, ensuring that
no run of cable exceeds 90m. All cable containment and structure cabling will be installed in
accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
A twin data outlet will be installed for each PC, printer, etc. and linked back to the respective
communication cabinet.

Gent Vigilon Fire Alarm system

The detection system shall comprise of smoke and heat detectors, and manual break glass units with
polycarbonate flaps to prevent unintentional activation. The alarm system shall comprise electronic
sounders and visual alarm devices as appropriate.

14

The IT/Data system will consist of outlets for the office areas, teaching spaces, Lifts, Fire Alarm system,
Security system and the BMS system. Public pay phones will be installed to public circulation areas.
A provision for installation of Wi-Fi system will be provided thorough out the building. This includes
all necessary cable containment and power supplies to the system as per the specialist design.

The Sill

MEP Scheme Design Report

Security

TV System

The security system for The Sill project shall comprise of multi-level protection in the form of CCTV
and access control and shall be IP networked throughout. The systems are to comprise: -

A Freeview TV system will be installed serving selected guest bedrooms and other areas of the
building such as reception, cafe seating and staff accommodation. The system will be based on co-axial
cable.

Access control
The access control design will conform to NACP 30. Access control shall be provided to the following
areas.

Server/comms room

All entrance doors

Classrooms

Staff cycle store

Plant rooms

It is envisaged that during the day, the entrance doors will open automatically. At night, the doors will
be controlled by swipe card or remote release. Door entry panels will be provided with push button to
alert the reception and will allow 2-way speech between the panel and the reception desk.
Internal access controlled doors will incorporate swipe card or proximity readers to allow entry/exit to
each area. Each door will be complete with single or double maglock with the provision of an
emergency green break glass. Door controllers and power supply units will be installed adjacent each
access door.
CCTV
Cameras will be installed to provide 24-hour surveillance to the external of the building covering main
and rear access doors. The system shall be provided to conform to NACP20 and BS EN 50132-7 and
provide evidential quality throughout as well as the provision for continuity of evidence.
Central monitoring and recording equipment will be provided to the reception desk.
The following will be provided as a minimum, with further development of the systems to be carried
out within the detailed proposals design stage:

1 No. dedicated 750GB 16 way digital recorders located within the reception desk

17 flat screen monitors

Dedicated keyboard

Colour/mono 360 PTZ external dome cameras

The cameras will be positioned so that the field of view is not obstructed by internal partitions;
equipment and architectural features.
External cameras shall be suitable for low light conditions and located so as not to be affected by glare
from the external lighting.
Bedroom Key Card System
Each guest bedroom will be provided with a key card unit which will provide access to the rooms and
will control the bedroom and toilet lighting.

15

Further details of the exact requirements will be determined as the design progresses and it becomes
clearer exactly which areas are to be provided with such services.
Systems for Disabled
Disabled WC Alarm
The disabled WC alarm system will be designed to meet all the requirements of Part M of building
regulation.
An alarm system will be provided to each disabled WC to give assistance to users in difficulty. The
system will comprise a pull cord and alarm reset unit within each disabled WC and flashing
lamp/buzzer unit external to each WC.
All disabled WCs will be individually identified at the main indicator panel, which will be located in
the building reception. This will avoid confusion and reduce response time to a minimum when an
alarm is activated.
Induction Loop System
An induction loop system shall be provided within the building to the main reception, classrooms and
within the exhibition areas. System details are to be agreed with the client during the detailed design
stage.
Earthing
The earthing installation shall be designed in accordance with BS7671 and BS 7430, with multiple
earthing connections provided to suspended ceilings.
Lightning Protection
A comprehensive Lightning protection system will be provided to cover the building in the event of a
lightning strike, in accordance with the requirements of BS EN 62305.
Generally, the system will incorporate an air termination network and down conductors. Wherever,
practicable, the structural elements of the building will be utilised to form the protection network.
This will typically include any metal framework for the roof, and reinforcement in the columns.
The air termination network will be installed on the building complete with air spikes and a 25x3mm
bare copper tape system with non-metallic fixing, in a grid arrangement.
Where necessary, a network of down conductors with PVC sheathing, coloured to match the building
fabric, will be used.
Finally, the reinforcement bar in the new concrete piles will be utilised as earth electrodes subject to
satisfactory earth resistance test readings being obtained.
Appropriate test points to be provided, located in lockable concrete test pits.
Surge suppression shall be provided to the incoming electrical switchgear and encompassed within the
main LV switch panel.

The Sill

MEP Scheme Design Report

The lightning protection system will be bonded to the main earth termination point for the building.
All external metal components shall be bonded to the system.
Vertical Transportation
Passenger Lifts
The YHA and NNPA areas each will be served by 1 No. passenger lift (2 No. in total) serving the
ground and first floors. Passenger lifts will be provided to comply with the recommendations of CIBSE
guide D.
These lifts will be provided to address the needs of passengers with full or impaired mobility as well
as general staff and public movement between different floors. The lifts will not be required to be used
as evacuation of fire-fighting lifts.
The finishes associated with the lift will be in accordance with the Architects details.
Indicative specification as per the Kone Monospace lift:
No of Lifts

Speed (m/s)

Lift Capacity (kg)

Capacity Factor %

1.0

630

<80

Car Sizes/Requirements
Based on a centre opening door, the following have been taken from Kone Monospace dimensions for
the above lifts.
Persons/
Load (kg)

Door size
(mm)

Shaft width
(mm)

Shaft Depth
(mm)

Pit depth
(mm)

Headroom
(mm)

8/630

800

1750

1810

1050

3400

It should be noted that the above are Kone dimensions, and different manufacturers dimensions may
vary.
The lifts shall be machine room-less type, electric traction with all associated equipment housed within
the lift shaft.
Lift installations will be provided with a dedicated 24 hour telephone line for use of the lift installer.
Lift alarms will also be audible to a permanently manned location. The lifts will be linked to the fire
alarm system via suitable interface units and will park at ground floor upon a confirmed fire signal.
Service Lift
A separate 480kg service lift will be provided to serve the cafe kitchen space at first floor. Following
dimensions have been taken from Kone MaxiSpace based on center opening door.

16

Load (kg)

Shaft width (mm)

Shaft Depth (mm)

Pit depth (mm)

480

1000

1070

800

Headroom (mm)

3100

Photovoltaic System
The photovoltaic system will comprise of 150 m2 solar PV panels located at the roof level and on the
shading canopy as identified by the architect. The inter-connected modules will form PV arrays and
will feed to the building main distribution.

The Sill

1.7

Sustainability Strategy
Halcrow Group Ltd has been appointed from RIBA Stage A to provide sustainability advice and
BREEAM assessment services, alongside building services design, for The Sill Project located by
Hadrians Wall in the Northumberland National Park. Our appointment aims to enhance the quality
of the development by informing the design team of issues relating to the delivery of sustainable
development for this project, specifically with regards to achieving BREEAM Excellent certification
and building services design, and meeting the NNPA Design Guide SPD expectations for Sustainable
Design.
The appointment of Halcrow aims to facilitate the development with innovative design solutions and
encourage sustainable building practices that allow for the concept of sustainability to be at the
forefront of the development throughout design, construction and operation.

MEP Scheme Design Report

A process diagram describing our approach to the sustainability strategy is shown below.

BREEAM AP report
& Initial Strategy

Design Guide SPD

(NNPA)

Sustainability
Strategy
Stage C
BREEAM
Preliminary
Assessment

This Sustainability Strategy has adopted the key criteria defined in Core Strategy Policy 1 as a
framework with which to demonstrate the sustainability performance of the proposals. This includes
as minimum the following sustainability features:
Sustainability
Statement

1. Conserving and enhancing the special qualities of the

National Park.
2. Making efficient use of land, materials, and infrastructure.
3. Providing opportunities for all to understand and enjoy
the special qualities of the National Park.
4. Promoting the local communitys economic and social
well-being and their ability to access services.
5. Reducing the causes and impacts of climate change,
particularly by maximising renewable energy generation
and energy efficiency in buildings.
6. Demonstrating high quality design and sustainable
construction.
7. Promoting accessibility via public transport, cycling, or
walking.
8. Conserving scarce resources.
This is supported with a detailed demonstration of the BREEAM strategy to achieving Excellent
certification.
Further details can be found in the Sustainability Statement, RIBA Stage D, The Sill Project, Document:
473949-D-003 Version: 1, submitted as a standalone document as part of the planning application.

17

Stage D

The Sill

1.8

MEP Scheme Design Report

1.9

BREEAM
As part of the Development Agreement, Northumberland National Park Authority and Youth Hostel
Association have set the requirement to achieve a BREEAM rating of Excellent for the Proposed
Development.

Energy Strategy
Initial design principles of the Sill Energy Strategy has been established at Stage D.
The strategy features the design and operational principles of the selected technologies whilst reducing
CO2 emissions, meeting regulatory and legislative targets and delivering a low carbon building for the
proposed development.
It has been carried out in close collaboration with the design team members particularly the project
architect and the lead consultant (JDDK), M&E Engineers (Halcrow), planning consultant (Cundall)
and the client (NNPA and YHA).
A policy review has been carried out ensuing targets were set out for the Sill. Sustainable energy
targets of the site is to meet 10% energy and CO2 reduction through on site renewable and meet Part L
of the Building Regulations 2010. However the Client has higher aspirations including achieving
energy related credits of BREEAM Excellent Rating.
With these aspirations in mind, passive design and energy efficiency measures have been investigated
to reduce the emissions at the outset. This is followed by low and zero carbon technology assessment
to demonstrate how the energy and carbon targets set out for the Sill could be achieved.
The study demonstrates that the proposed development is able to achieve significant savings through
energy efficiency and a combination of renewable energy technologies.

Since the inception, BREEAM AP (Halcrow) has been heavily involved in the Sill design process which
has included attending numerous of design team meeting and project team meetings, and two
BREEAM workshops. In addition numerous conversations and email correspondence took place with
regards to overall sustainability, energy strategy and BREEAM.
Currently, based on the project team meetings held to date and subsequent correspondence, the
BREEAM target scores at RIBA Stage D are as follows:
Building Type

Preliminary
Assessment
Score

Preliminary
Assessment Rating

Other (Residential) Buildings

72.87%

EXCELLENT

The BREEAM Accredited Professional (AP) for this project is Dr Jon Atkinson of Halcrow Group Ltd
(Cert No. BREEAMAP0460) and Seyhan Turan of Halcrow Group Ltd (Cert No. BREEAMAP0459).
Further information and the details of the design response with regards to meeting individual credits
and the excellent rating can be found in BREEAM Accredited Professional Report, RIBA Stage D,
Document: 473949-RPT-001 Version: 01, The Sill Project, submitted as a standalone document as part of
the Stage D and the planning application.

18

The Sill An image from the energy modelling software (IES)

It was found that passive design and energy efficiency measures could reduce the emissions via
improvements in building fabric insulation, air tightness and efficient building service strategy.

The Sill

MEP Scheme Design Report

Solar Thermal Panels

PV Panels
The review of low zero carbon options suggests that PV panels can make significant reduction in CO2
emissions. The area available for PV is clear of obstructions at the right orientation and assumed to be
suitable for PV installation.
PV option is therefore recommended and incorporated into the Stage D design.

Solar thermal panels providing hot water have also been considered for the proposed development. It
is thought that there is enough space close to optimum orientation to accommodate the required
amount of solar hot water to meet approximately 12 - 13% of the total annual hot water demand of the
building.
Similar to the biomass option RHI adds significant benefits to the system. Based on the heat production
revenue collected it provides more than 47,000 net profit over 20 years.
Solar thermal option is therefore recommended and incorporated into design.

The Sill Roof area that is suitable for photovoltaic panels on the southern elevation over the canopy.
Biomass Boilers
Biomass boilers can provide majority of heating and hot water demand and they have a lower capital
cost compared to the emission savings achieved. They would be suitable in conjunction with a
communal heating system, a back-up boiler, thermal store and a fuel store. This can be provided at an
appropriately sized plant space.
RHI adds significant financial benefits to the system. As it is a revenue collected for 20 years based on
the heat production of biomass it provides more than 500,000 net profit over 20 years.
Biomass option is therefore recommended and incorporated into Stage D.

Solar Water Heating on the south west corner of development located above the plant room
Summary
Based on the proposed energy strategy following emission ratings are estimated based on the Stage D
design:
Target Emission Rate (TER) 18.5 kg CO2/ m2
Building Emission Rate (BER): 12.8 kg CO2/ m2
Therefore the proposed design would meet and exceed the requirements of Part L 2010 Regulations.
As the improvement in emission rate is approximately 30% (BER/TER) this also meets the energy
related criteria to achieve the BREEAM Excellent rating.
In addition to this estimated savings through renewable energy are in the region of 45 tonnes. This
exceeds the 10% renewable energy criteria proposed by the planning authorities.

The Sill - Plant room Stage D Design Elevation

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The Sill

MEP Scheme Design Report

The Sill - Total Site Emissions

140

Tonnes CO2

120
100
80
60
40
20
Total Site Emissions
(Biomass + LPG + PV +
SHW)

Total Site Emissions

(Biomass + LPG + PV)

Total Site Emissions

(Biomass + LPG)

Total Site Emissions Base Case

The Sill - Total Site Emissions after biomass, PV and solar thermal
Further details can be found in Energy Strategy, Document: 473949-D-001 Version: 1, The Sill
Discovery Centre, January 2014 submitted as a stand alone document as part of the Stage D
application.

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The Sill

1.10

MEP Scheme Design Report

Codes & Standards

General
The Building Services systems shall be designed to comply with the following standards.

21

YHA Blue Guide

Requirements of the Local Authority

o

Environmental Health Dept

Building Control Offices

Building Regulations inc Part L2A 2010 and or Local Building Warrants

Relevant British Standards and Codes of Practice

Latest Edition of CIBSE Guides

17th Edition of IET Regulations

CIBSE Technical Memoranda and Manuals

Health and Safety at Work

Regulations of the Clean Air Act

Requirements of insurances companies concerned

COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) Regulations

Requirements of the Electricity Board.

Latest Edition of the IOP Guide

Water Byelaws

Requirements of the Fire Authority and F.O.C. rules

The requirements for the control of legionnaires disease.

o

The control of legionellosis (including legionnaires disease) Health and Safety series
booklet H and (G) 70:1991

The prevention or control of legionellosis approved code of practice 1991.

Minimising the risk of legionnaires disease TM13:1991