Modern Building Services

FEATURE VERTICAL FOCUS MODERN BUILDING SERVICES OCTOBER 2021 23 Built-in digital controls ensure easy installation, diagnostics and maintenance while the unique pre-mix burner system and optimised stainless steel heat exchanger and bronze primary pump ensure energy-efficient, cost-effective operation. The units are complemented by two 780-litre glass-lined buffer vessels, to ensure that the system will satisfy the requirement for hot water during periods of peak demand and high occupancy at the double-decker hotel. Natural ventilation heat recycling units (NVHRs) have been installed to maintain optimum temperatures in the two hotels, providing a low- energy solution that will maximise comfort while minimising carbon emissions. Working alongside the NVHRs to ensure reliable space heating at all times are two compact condensing boilers, chosen for their reliability, high efficiencies, low NOx levels and flexible design. Electricity is another large source of energy consumption in hotels. Photo-voltaic (PV) solar panels have been installed on the roof of the building to generate renewable electricity for use within the Moxy and the Residence Inn and help offset the building’s energy consumption. Delivering both aesthetically and environmentally The new hotels, which opened their doors at the start of February, deliver aesthetically as well as environmentally. Designed by award-winning architects Franklin Ellis, the scheme achieves its aim to create an exciting new focus for Slough while respecting the heritage of the existing High Street. The Moxy, which provides 152 luxury bedrooms, follows a unique design theme with Thunderbirds graphics in honour of the vintage series filmed in the town by its creator Gerry Anderson. The Residence Inn’s 92 suites, in contrast, are designed with longer-staying guests inmind and boast fantastic views of the London skyline. The pandemic hit the country at the busiest time for the site, bringing unprecedented challenges including a 90%drop in operative levels overnight. But thanks to an excellent working relationship between the project partners, both hotels were able to open three-months ahead of schedule, on budget, safely and in line with government guidelines. The early collaboration betweenMorgan Sindall and Baxi Heating also helped avoid any potential delays from multiple deliveries. “We were proud to deliver this fantastic new development ahead of schedule, during the logistically challenging period of COVID-19 restrictions,” said Steven Vaux, Senior Project Manager at Morgan Sindall Construction. “This was due in part to the great relationship across the project team, including with our suppliers Baxi Heating.” The development has driven £40.1million of social value reinvestment into the Slough community. Education programmes engaged 2,000 students through curriculum-based events. 22 jobless residents were employed and over 1,200 hours were voluntarily invested in community projects. 70% of the hotel employees are Slough residents. The development has left a positive lasting legacy on the surrounding area driving inward investment, opportunities and community wealth to benefit all stakeholders. The scheme is a joint venture between Slough Borough Council and national urban regenerator Muse Developments. “The hotels are a fantastic asset and our projects continue to be a catalyst for change in the town,” said Andy Howell, general manager for Slough Urban Renewal, SUR. “As well as the essential accommodation they will provide for both business and leisure users, the additional bar and lounge facilities will give a new sense of life to this area of the high street. “Sat alongside Novus Apartments, our new collection of homes, we have created an exciting and enticing new hub for the benefit of the wider town.” The dual-branded hotel development is situated close to The Curve, Slough’s award-winning library and cultural arts centre, also constructed by Morgan Sindall Construction. The Moxy and Residence Inn hotels aremanaged by Cycas Hospitality, the award-winning hotel management company. The project M&E contractors were Drayton Beaumont Services. More information can be found at www.andrewswaterheaters. co.uk/products/condensing- water-heaters/supaflo-evo www.remeha.co.uk/products/ floor-standing-range/gas- 220-ace “The hotels are a fantastic asset and our projects continue to be a catalyst for change in the town,”