ESB BRANCH HEADQUARTERS ENERGY UPGRADE AND REFURBISHMENT
Print pageDevelopment location:
Athlone, Westmeath, N37 KT29
Description:
The project objective is to upgrade the ESB depot in Athlone, Co Westmeath,
into a B1 BRE rated facility. Constructed in 1999, this two-story structure,
characterized by its linear form and precise structural grid, is the focus of an
extensive refurbishment project aimed at enhancing its energy efficiency and
operational sustainability.
The core objective of this project is to significantly reduce the building's energy
consumption and carbon footprint through a series of targeted interventions.
This includes the replacement of all external fenestrations with advanced
triple-glazed units designed to achieve a minimum U-value of 1.2, thereby
reducing heat loss and improving thermal insulation. The project also aims to
enhance the building's air tightness to a level where air exchange is less than
25m3/h/m2, a critical factor in maintaining energy efficiency.
The upgrade of the existing Salto security system, alongside the structural and
aesthetic enhancements, exemplifies the integration of technology in
modernizing infrastructure. The demolition and replacement of specific
architectural elements, such as the timber façade at the entrance, underscore
the endeavor’s commitment to utilizing durable and energy-efficient materials.
The project also requires the planned reinforcement of the roof structure to
support photovoltaic (PV) panels. This not only demonstrates a move towards
renewable energy sources but also aligns with ESBs Net Zero 2040
sustainability targets. The inclusion of infrastructure for double electric vehicle
(EV) chargers further emphasizes the project's role in promoting eco-friendly
transportation solutions.
This project is not limited to structural and technological upgrades; it also
encompasses a comprehensive approach to fire safety and emergency
preparedness. The replacement and upgrade of all existing fire doors, along
with fire remediation works across all service penetrations, are integral to
ensuring the building's compliance with fire safety standards. The project's
approach to creating a safer environment through scientific methods and
materials, such as the encasement of exposed steel elements for fireproofing,
is exemplary of its holistic view towards refurbishment.
By aiming to achieve a B1 BRE rating, the project not only seeks to enhance
the building's energy performance but also contributes to the broader narrative
of sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
The building is to be upgraded to a B1 BRE Rating
All external windows, doors and curtain walling to be removed and
replaced with triple glazed units achieving a minimum 1.2 U value. All
roller shutter doors are to be retained as they currently exist.
Replace and upgrade the existing steel doors to Transmission Store,
Stations Store, Construction Store, General Workshop, Metre Workshop/
Booster Workshop which are to achieve a minimum 1.4 U Value.
Upgrade of the building air tightness to achieve an air exchange of less
than 25m3/h/m2
Upgrade of existing Salto security system to facilitate the replacement of
all windows and doors inclusive of the internal doors.
Demolish and remove area of existing timber façade at entrance and
replace with high pressure laminate panel.
Upgrade of the existing first floor tea station and tea-room inclusive of a
full replacement of the existing tea station units and appliances. Upgrade
and replace existing floor finishes, ceilings and wall finishes to tea station
and tea-room.
Upgrade of conference room on first floor. Upgrade and replace existing
floor finishes, ceilings and wall finishes to tea station and tea-room.
Upgrade first floor lobby to Stair 01 to a 30-minute fire rated protected
lobby and provide a refuge call point.
Provide refuge point to Stair 02.
Provide internal plant room within a 30min fire rated enclosure to facilitate
the mechanical and electrical install.
Replacement and upgrade of all existing fire doors on site. Additional
double fire doors to ground floor corridor and first floor corridor.
Fire remediation works required to all fire wall service penetrations, floor
slab penetrations through all fire rated enclosures.
Provision of a fire ceiling barrier to ground floor office ceiling void space
and first floor office ceiling void space.
Minor alterations to the existing steel fence in the Main Store to facilitate
a safe means of escape.
Demolish and remove the existing store unit that is located on the firstfloor
mezzanine of the main store.
Exposed steel elements along fire compartment walls in Main Store area
to be encased fireproofed to provide a 60min fire rating.
Removal and reuse of existing ceiling grids. Provide ceiling bulkheads in
localised areas to facilitate the mechanical and electrical installation.
Provide new ceilings to the WC areas, Locker Rooms, Tea Rooms,
Corridors, Stairs, Open Plan Offices and Meeting Rooms.
Demolish, remove, and replace footpaths where necessary to facilitate
the two structural plinths.
Provide two separate concrete plinths to facilitate the mechanical and
electrical installation.
Provide SR2 Rated security fencing and access gates to the two concrete
plinths.
Provide Temporary accommodation for Phase 02 of project consisting of
sanitary facilities, male and female, unisex shower, and a drying room.
Establish contractors’ compound to front of the building inclusive of
temporary connections for power, data and water. Approx. 18 car spaces.
Reinforce existing roof with additional roof bracing over the first-floor area
to account for the additional weight of the proposed PV Panels.
Main Contractor to manage moving all furniture as part of the project,
including disassembling, storing on-site in their compound and
reassembling.
Replace all blinds.
Carry out remediation works to the roof inclusive of upgrading the gutter
lining, ensuring all fixings to all roof panels are adequately torqued,
replacing the ridge capping, replacement of parapet capping, sealing
areas of corrosion on the existing roof panels, refelting the flat roof
section, alterations to existing fall arrest system where necessary and the
removal of redundant Mechanical and Electrical Services from the roof.
Remove and replace 25% LEDs. 75% of existing LEDs to be retained and
reinstalled.
Carry out alterations to the garage tea station, garage storage, sanitary
facilities, locker area and store. Provision of new tea station.
Upgrade heating and ventilation systems in line with energy upgrade
strategy.
Provide weatherproofing to service penetrations proposed through roof.
Relocate existing security equipment to Telecoms room on first floor.
Provide 10 number double EV chargers and associated infrastructure.
Proposal is to provide infrastructure only.
Notice type:
Commencement Notice Without Compliance Documentation
Notice number:
CN0119572WH
Commencement date:
Friday, 27 September, 2024
Submission date:
Thursday, 5 September, 2024
Owner:
Owner name:
Joe Dooley
Owner company:
ESB
Owner address:
C/O ESB, Kilcruttin Busines Park,, Tullamore, Offaly,
Builder:
Builder name:
Diane Dolan
Builder address
Cornamaddy, Athlone, Westmeath, N37 V064
Designer:
Designer name:
Bryan Hoey
Designer address
Moneygold, Sligo, Sligo, F91WF24