Pamber Heath Memorial Hall
Extensions + Alterations to Existing Hall for New Nursery School and Community Spaces
Sector: Community
Client: Pamber Heath Memorial Hall
Value range: £1m-1.5m
The project involved the extension and refurbishment of an existing Parish Hall to provide a new Nursery School, enlarged community spaces, and updated facilities. The existing car park was also remodelled and extended.
Scope of work
Existing Building:
The existing building was outdated with limited storage facilities. The nursery shared the hall with community clubs and events, necessitating careful scheduling and phasing of construction to maintain usage.
Construction Phasing:
The project was handed over in four separate phases, considering logistical issues such as child drop-off/pick-up, construction deliveries, and maintaining toilet and accessible facilities alongside fire egress.
New Nursery School:
Construction of a purpose-built nursery as the main extension to the existing building. Reconfiguration of internal sanitary facilities, construction of additional storage, and a new stage. Design review at RIBA stage 4 led to a more streamlined internal arrangement, increasing toilet numbers, and improving disabled accessibility without reverting to planning.
Ground Conditions:
The site had unexpected wet ground conditions, encountering the water table at only 400mm below the grass. This required a redesign of the surface water strategy during construction.
Energy Efficiency:
The new nursery was treated as a separate building requiring compliance with stringent energy consumption levels. Achieved an air pressure of 0.96m³, well below the SBEM target of 4m³/h.m² @ 50 Pa, resulting in a more airtight and energy-efficient building. Ventilation provided by MVHR, linked to CO2 sensors to ensure efficient energy use and fresh air supply.
Mechanical and Electrical Upgrades:
Replacement of the existing oil-fired heating and hot water system with a new mains gas supply. Installation of a new water tank and booster set due to low mains water pressure. Installation of a new 3-phase electricity supply to support potential PV installation and new fast-charging electric vehicle points. Entirely new L1 fire alarm system replacing the outdated previous system.
Additional Features:
Additional car parking spaces, covered cycle facilities, electrical supply to outbuildings, and a covered canopy for the nursery. Formation of a new hardwood stage for the existing main hall and improved thermal performance of existing elements.
Challenges and Considerations:
Careful planning and collaboration with the parish were essential to ensure the smooth construction process while maintaining the building’s usage. Accelerated works were completed during holiday periods to minimize disruption.
The completed building provides the nursery with a purpose-built facility, allowing children to flourish. The parish now has a rejuvenated building that will serve the community for many years to come.