Environment & Power Technology is extremely proud to to be providing its building services on refurbishment works for a new 8-Bed Activity & intervention centre for children in care. The property, Oaklands Manor, Buxton will become an activity centre for children young persons in care. Having worked for the same contractor on a number of similar projects in the past it is comforting to know the quality of our work and value are recognised. Needless to say, it is more rewarding than words can express, to deliver an asset that is of great benefit to the wider community.
Formerly owned by Derby University and used as a residential Leadership Training Centre, Oaklands Manor housed classrooms, bedrooms, and hospitality facilities. Following its transfer to new ownership, EPT was commissioned to provide a complete range of services, including building fabric, electrical systems, heating, plumbing, and HVAC installations. Our work spans both interior and exterior renovations, with the project commencing in July 2024 and scheduled for completion within four months.
- Converting a Country Property – the Background
- Getting the Refurbishment Started
- Early Construction Challenges
- Building Fabric: A Core Component of EPT’s Services
- Electrical Services: Modernizing While Preserving Character
- Heating and Plumbing: Balancing Modern Efficiency with Historical Integrity
- HVAC: Ensuring Comfort and Air Quality for Future Residents
- Health and Safety: A Core Priority in Every Project
- Sustainability in Building Services: Minimizing Waste, Maximizing Impact
- Impact on the Community: A Lasting Contribution
- Final Thoughts (for now!)
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Converting a Country Property – the Background
After identifying the key objectives and project parameters, EPT arranged a comprehensive second site visit. Representatives from each of the four service areas, along with a quality manager, attended to assess the building. Our long-serving, experienced staff conducted a thorough evaluation of both the interior and exterior of Oaklands Manor, paying close attention to the grounds, including a specialist wastewater process system and the surrounding environment, including neighbouring properties.
Following the inspection, the project manager compiled a detailed findings report for the client, which also played a crucial role in shaping the project plan. Leveraging our extensive experience, EPT was able to identify potential challenges early on and develop an efficient, cost-effective strategy to achieve both a high-quality and aesthetically pleasing outcome..
It is essential that this renovation strikes a careful balance between preserving the building’s historical features and modernizing it to ensure safety, comfort, and energy efficiency. Our goal is to create a welcoming, functional environment for the future residents of this important facility.
This article is the first in a three-part series that will track how EPT works to meet—and exceed—client expectations throughout the renovation process.
Getting the Refurbishment Started
With signage installed and a project office and welfare facility established, the renovation work could now begin in earnest. The first priority was protecting key fixtures and fittings, including the intricately decorated staircases, along with conducting essential protective work on external windows and doors before proceeding with further activities.
Naturally, considerations also extended to ensuring safe access to the public highway, securing the site, and maintaining safety for both the team and neighboring properties. The stunning surrounding environment was carefully factored into the planning to minimize any disruption and preserve the natural beauty of the area.
Early Construction Challenges
One of the project’s first unexpected challenges was the discovery of a bird of prey nesting in the building’s eaves. After consulting with wildlife experts, it was determined that work could proceed in areas away from the nest to avoid disturbing the hatching and rearing of the young. A slight adjustment to the project timeline allowed work to continue in other sections of Oaklands Manor, minimizing disruption while respecting the natural habitat.
Another challenge arose from the considerable amount of furniture left behind by the previous occupants. To address this, additional skips and transportation services were arranged through a trusted local supplier. In keeping with EPT’s commitment to sustainability, our waste recycling partner explored all possible options for reusing or recycling the retrieved items, underscoring our dedication to environmentally responsible practices.
Building Fabric: A Core Component of EPT’s Services
Arguably the most significant aspect of the services provided by EPT, the building fabric work presents unique challenges due to the impressive architectural style of Oaklands Manor. However, addressing these complexities with meticulous attention to detail is rewarding for both the client and the builder, ensuring the renovation remains in harmony with the building’s historical integrity and its natural surroundings.
The project encompasses a range of structural repairs, including roof and masonry repairs. These are just a few of the key tasks being undertaken. Future articles will delve deeper into each of these areas, so be sure to subscribe at the end of this article if you’d like to follow the full renovation journey of Oaklands Manor.
A central focus of the work has been the preservation of original features, such as timber beams, stonework, and the distinctive windows. The exposure of these elements to the harsh local countryside has resulted in deterioration, particularly in the exterior woodwork and window frames. Our specialist craftsmen are carefully restoring these features, and the results are already becoming visible.
At the same time, modern techniques to improve energy efficiency—such as the installation of modern insulation—have been prioritized. Balancing historical preservation with modern efficiency has been central to our planning process. The advantage of EPT’s integrated services, which include building fabric, electrical systems, heating, plumbing, and air conditioning, has allowed us to approach the project holistically, ensuring that all elements are considered from the outset.
Ultimately, this careful planning will result in a layout that not only restores the building’s charm but also reconfigures spaces to better serve its new purpose as an activity centre for children young persons in care.
For more information on EPT’s Building Fabric Services, feel free to explore our website.
Electrical Services: Modernizing While Preserving Character
Given the age of Oaklands Manor and its multiple repurposings over the years, it’s no surprise that the existing electrical systems have been disrupted and modified numerous times. As part of our renovation, EPT is addressing these challenges by upgrading the property’s electrical circuitry to meet the latest safety standards and support modern functionality.
This project goes beyond simply replacing old systems with new ones. Our team is redesigning the electrical infrastructure to accommodate the revised layout of the building, ensuring it meets the demands of its new purpose. In addition to rewiring, we are incorporating modern electrical features such as smart lighting systems, advanced security solutions, and energy-efficient appliances. These updates will not only enhance the functionality of the building but also contribute to its long-term energy efficiency.
Heating and Plumbing: Balancing Modern Efficiency with Historical Integrity
The general wear and tear in the building’s original shower rooms has necessitated a complete redesign of the bathrooms. EPT’s integrated approach—combining building fabric, heating, plumbing, and electrical services—has been essential in addressing these challenges efficiently and cohesively.
One of the major upgrades involves modernizing the heating system. This includes installing energy-efficient boilers, more modern, efficient radiators and tmvs. Careful consideration has been given to the building’s age and structure to ensure that the new systems complement its historical character while improving overall energy efficiency.
The plumbing throughout the property is also undergoing a significant overhaul. New pipes, fixtures, and fittings are being installed, with the design of the bathrooms focusing not only on functionality but also on creating aesthetically pleasing spaces that enhance the comfort of future residents.
Water-saving measures are being implemented as part of our commitment to sustainability. A particularly noteworthy feature is the renovation of an environmentally conscious waste water disposal and purification system, an engineering marvel that will be explored in more detail in upcoming articles.
HVAC: Ensuring Comfort and Air Quality for Future Residents
EPT’s HVAC team has extensive experience in providing complex installation and maintenance services for a diverse range of clients across the UK, including hospitals, schools, museums, laboratories, and other commercial buildings. This breadth of experience enables us to deliver high-quality HVAC solutions, whether the project is large or small.
Although this project involves servicing only two air conditioning units, it is treated with the same level of care and attention as all of our work. Ensuring proper ventilation and maintaining high air quality is particularly crucial in a residential setting intended for children. The importance of a healthy, well-ventilated environment cannot be overstated, and EPT remains committed to creating a safe and comfortable space for all future residents.
Health and Safety: A Core Priority in Every Project
At EPT, we understand that delivering high-quality services is not just about the final outcome, but also about ensuring the safety of everyone involved. Health and safety is a crucial aspect of every project, and our experience plays a vital role in minimizing risks for both our operators and visitors.
We take pride in our extensive range of certifications and accreditations, which are reinforced by practical policies and procedures. Our teams are not only trained to adhere to these standards but are also encouraged to actively suggest improvements. This proactive approach ensures that health and safety is continuously evolving, allowing us to maintain the highest possible standards.
One example of our commitment is our careful practice of dust control during installations. By minimizing airborne particles, we protect both the environment and the well-being of those on site.
Sustainability in Building Services: Minimizing Waste, Maximizing Impact
At EPT, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Throughout our projects, we prioritize identifying opportunities to repair or restore materials rather than replace them, ensuring that quality is never compromised. A key example from this project is the careful repair of the existing wooden window frames, preserving both the character of the building and reducing material waste.
Energy efficiency is another critical focus of our refurbishment work. We are incorporating modern insulation techniques and other energy-saving measures to improve the building’s long-term efficiency and reduce its environmental footprint.
We are also proud of our partnerships with disposal companies that prioritize reusing discarded materials. Items that are no longer needed on-site are repurposed, either through resale or charitable donations, helping to reduce waste while benefiting others in need.
Impact on the Community: A Lasting Contribution
The renovation of Oaklands Manor will have a profound and lasting impact on the local community, particularly for the disadvantaged children who will benefit from the transformed space. By converting the manor into a holiday home, EPT is not only preserving a piece of local history but also creating a safe, welcoming environment where vulnerable children can relax and enjoy time away from their everyday challenges.
In addition to the direct benefits to the children, the project will have wider positive effects on the community. Local businesses, including contractors and suppliers, are actively involved in the project, contributing to the local economy. EPT’s commitment to using sustainable practices and working with recycling partners ensures that the environmental impact of the project is minimized, further benefiting the surrounding area.
Ultimately, this project is about more than just renovation—it’s about creating a space that fosters well-being, supports the local economy, and leaves a positive legacy for the community.
Final Thoughts (for now!)
Although it’s still early in the project, the careful attention to detail during the planning stages is already paying off. This foresight makes the rest of the work more efficient and ensures it aligns with the client’s expectations. Challenges, such as nesting protected birds and the complexities of specialist wastewater extraction, only add to our experience, better equipping us to tackle future projects.
The significance of creating a holiday home for young adults and children in care is something that stays with everyone involved in this project. It provides EPT and its team with the motivation to not only meet but exceed expectations.
Stay tuned for more updates on our journey. Follow our upcoming articles on Refurbishment Works for a New 8-Bed Activity & Intervention Centre for Children in Care. Don’t miss out—sign up below to follow the story!
Author: Jeff Quirk – EPT Interim Business Analyst
Editor: Martin Millward – EPT Building Fabric Director
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