Littleborough Community Primary School is a new two-storey 420 place primary school which will replace the existing building on site which is in poor condition. The school will be built as part of the governments School Rebuilding Programme (SRP) and will include 14 new classrooms, a library, multi-purpose hall, multi-use games area and a nursery.
In partnership with Wates Construction the design team took a fabric first approach to the building design to ensure a high level of insulation and airtightness that will keep both energy consumption and heating demand low. Wates will also use an efficient heating plant, LED lighting and simple controls to keep the buildings net zero.
The team focused closely on modern methods of construction and reductions to both embodied and operational energy within the construction. Increased U-Values are achieved across all building elements through the use of super insulated, large format structural panels in the walls and triple glazing to the windows. A natural ventilation strategy is also included in the design with chimneys and roof cowls to the classroom spaces creating a stack effect.
Wates are using its “Adapt” solution to build the schools. “Adapt” is a component-based school kit which offers a more sustainable method of construction, ensuring less waste and higher finished quality through its emphasis on offsite manufacture.
Mark Evans Ellis Williams Director said:
Responding to one of the greatest ongoing challenges of our generation is the drive towards true zero carbon. We recognise the responsibility architects have and Ellis Williams is at the forefront of driving change and delivering truly sustainable solutions. On completion the Littleborough Community Primary School will be net zero in operation and the first school to be built to these standards in the North West.
The wider team
Architect – Ellis Williams
Landscape Architect – Ares
Structural and Civil Engineer – Curtins
Mechanical and Electrical Engineers – CSD and Prism
FF&E – Space Zero
ICT – Nexus
Acoustic Consultant – Stroma
Fire Consultant – OTR
Planning Advisor – Avison Youn