Block J, Usk Campus – Mechanical Services Refurbishment

We were appointed by Monmouthshire County Council to deliver the full mechanical services package for the refurbishment of Block J at their Usk Campus. This project formed part of the Council’s wider programme to modernise existing estate buildings while safeguarding the architectural heritage that characterises the site.

Block J, a structure with notable historic features, required a sensitive and carefully sequenced approach to ensure that all new services were seamlessly integrated without compromising the building’s integrity.

Scope of Works

Our remit covered the complete strip out of all existing mechanical systems, followed by the installation of a fully redesigned heating, hot water and ventilation infrastructure. Given the age and layout of the building, the works demanded extensive coordination with the main contractor, conservation officers and other disciplines to maintain aesthetic continuity and comply with relevant building standards.

Heating System

A new, fully zoned low temperature hot water (LTHW) heating system was installed to serve all occupied areas of Block J.

• A modern, energy efficient boiler plant was positioned at the end of the building, providing a reliable heat source capable of supporting the building’s varied occupancy patterns.
• The system was divided into multiple zones, allowing for improved environmental control, enhanced energy efficiency and easier ongoing maintenance.
• Across the building, a total of 72 Merriott radiators were supplied and installed. These were selected for their performance, durability and suitability for heritage environments.

To accommodate the unique layout of Block J, all heating distribution pipework was installed using screwed steel iron pipework, chosen for its robustness and compatibility with exposed or semi exposed installation. The pipe runs were carefully designed to navigate the building’s existing pillars, beams and architectural features. Our team took particular care to ensure that pipework installations remained visually sympathetic, with fixings and routing designed to blend into the surroundings wherever possible.

Hot Water Systems

Localised hot water generation was provided for the Welfare areas using Zip water heaters, offering rapid and efficient hot water delivery without the need for long distribution pipework. This approach minimised heat loss, supported energy efficiency targets and aligned with the building’s operational requirements.

Ventilation and Sanitaryware

Mechanical ventilation systems were installed to support improved indoor air quality, particularly in high use Welfare and staff areas. These systems were designed to meet current regulatory standards while ensuring that the installation remained unobtrusive within the building’s existing structure.

The refurbishment also included the installation of new sanitaryware within the Welfare facilities. All fixtures were selected for reliability and ease of maintenance, and were integrated with the new mechanical services to provide a fully modern and user friendly environment.

Quality and Delivery

Throughout the 32 week programme, our team worked in close collaboration with the client, design consultants and other trades to deliver the project to a high standard. The installation was carried out with precision and careful attention to detail, ensuring the new services complemented the historic character of Block J. The completed works provide the building with a modern, efficient and future proof mechanical services infrastructure while preserving the features that make the Usk Campus unique.

Client: Monmouthshire County Council

Contract Weeks:  32 Weeks