Grass roof for New College Stamford eco-building

Innovative grass roofed eco-building at New College Stamford is being designed by Pick Everard as part of college's GBP45m redevelopment plan due for completion in 2012.

Buildings in the UK further education (FE) sector have mostly been highly serviced, fuel and energy hungry.

By contrast this will be the first new FE college building to be built in the UK that is low energy, environmentally-efficient and green.

Consuming fewer oil-derived materials and energy in construction and operation, the eco-building will be economical to run and provide a stimulating and inspirational educational environment for New College students.

There are plans for three buildings on the college's current site.

The eco-building and two other separate Sports and Construction buildings will be created by redeveloping existing facilities.

As the college is located in a predominately residential area, surrounded by housing, Pick Everard's proposed designs, which include enhanced landscaping, were developed after careful consideration of site constraints and discussions with the Local Planning Authority.

In the UK grass roofs have been around since the 1930's but the last five years has seen an increase in the numbers being designed and installed.

Widely used in Germany, a living roof can last between 50 and 60 years with soil and planting protecting the base waterproof membrane from sunlight, mechanical damage and climatic extremes.

This proposed development scheme, including the eco-building, will push the boundaries of environmental innovation.

Enhanced sustainable and low carbon technologies will be incorporated as will rainwater harvesting, biomass boilers, natural lighting and ventilation.

Designers are aiming for an 'excellent' BREEAM rating - the highest environmental standard obtainable in the UK.

"We're delighted to be using our considerable skill and expertise in sustainable buildings on this latest eco-project" said Lucy Wilson, project architect at Pick Everard.

"The integration of a grass roof building into the existing site will be a challenge but one we are looking forward to".

"This is an excellent opportunity for evolution in building design as we develop innovative green solutions for the FE sector," she added.

Principal Miles Dibsdall comments, "We're delighted to be working with Pick Everard to develop this innovative building".

"The best and latest technology will be used to create a visual exemplar of sustainability which will significantly reduce our carbon footprint".

Redevelopment will be phased to enable the continued use of teaching and leisure facilities during construction.

The scheme will also be subject to Learning and Skills council approval and funding.

Plans are expected to be submitted for planning permission in autumn 2008.

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