European Space Agency - Heat & Cooling Installation

Established in 1975, the European Space Agency (ESA) is an intergovernmental organisation dedicated to the exploration of space.

The ESA wanted to establish a European Centre for Space Applications and Telecommunication (ECSAT) research centre, which would be located within the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus (also known as the UK Space Gateway) based in Oxfordshire.

The construction of this new, five-storey office, meeting space and conference building was issued to tender by the ESA in 2014, and awarded to Bouygues. The M&E works required comprised of the installation of a state-of-the-art heating and cooling system for the entire building. J Tomlinson was contracted to undertake these works following liquidation of the original M&E contractor.

Following a seamless handover, J Tomlinson was able to pick up where the former M&E contractor had left off. The original contractor had managed to install some copper pipework services around the building, but the remaining works had yet to be undertaken.

The client required a completely bespoke heating and cooling design, which comprised of ceiling-mounted heating/cooling mats served from a ground source bore hole system, together with heat recovery ventilation systems installed within several other areas of the building, including the reception area, offices and various toilet facilities. The heat recovery ventilation systems work by supplying warm, tempered fresh air to the building after removing the heat from hot stale air that is extracted from the building to outdoors.

Throughout the project, J Tomlinson utilised multiple specialist materials in order to yield various benefits for the client; an example of this was the use of HDPE pipework, chosen specifically for its high-resistance, durability and low risk of cracking, also helping towards keeping the system clean internally to help reduce blockages within the heating/cooling matts.

As well as undertaking heating and cooling works, J Tomlinson implemented energy-saving measures in other areas of the project, where possible; electronic-sensor taps and infrared flushing sensors on each toilet were put in place to reduce water consumption, promote hygiene and support the ESA’s own sustainable development goals.

A strong combination of teamwork, efficiency and close communication with the client ensured that the project was completed within budget and to a high standard.

SEAMLESS HANDOVER - Following a seamless handover, J Tomlinson was able to pick up where the former M&E contractor had left off without any delays to the programme.

DELIVERED WITHIN BUDGET – The M&E works were delivered within budget, and accommodated a tight deadline.

ENERGY-SAVING MEASURES – A variety of energy-saving measures including electronic-sensor taps and infrared flushing sensors on each toilet were implemented to support the client’s own environmental goals and promote hygiene within the facility.

HIGH SECURITY – During the approach to completion of the project, high security measures were implemented by the facility as it prepared to house staff and visitors. J Tomlinson were mindful and considerate of these measures, and fully accommodated the sensitive nature of the facility.