Past project
The Boathouse Youth Centre, Fleetwood
Delivering a Modern, Sustainable Youth Centre
A Turnkey Project for The Boathouse Youth Charity
Project Background and Brief
We are proud to present our latest turnkey project – a modern, efficient youth centre for The Boathouse Youth Charity in Fleetwood, Lancashire. Spanning 546 square metres, the facility was designed to be a vibrant community hub that supports classrooms, offices, meeting rooms, games areas, a large open sports hall, and a fully equipped commercial kitchen. From the outset, our brief was clear: deliver a building that was modern, low maintenance, and environmentally sustainable, all within a tight 12-month timeframe.
A Comprehensive Turnkey Solution
Our role on this project went far beyond simply constructing a building. We managed the entire process from concept to completion, handling:
- Piling, below-ground works, drainage, and utilities
- Building erection and all internal works
- Complete mechanical and electrical installations
- Painting, decorating, and both hard and soft landscaping
Every step was executed with precision and care, ensuring a seamless transition from design through to the final touches.
Budget Management and In-House Project Services
Another significant challenge was keeping to a very tight budget. To achieve this, we not only delivered the full building project but also provided all essential project services in house. Our team managed Project Management, Quantity Surveying, and Programme Management internally, ensuring stringent budget control, streamlined processes, and efficient delivery throughout the project.
Innovative Design and Fabric-First Approach
Central to the project was our fabric-first approach, a philosophy that guided every decision to meet the strict sustainability goals and high-quality finish required by the client. By prioritising the building envelope and materials, we maximised energy efficiency and durability. The structure itself is built using a 195mm injected timber frame, a choice that not only provides excellent thermal performance but also contributes to the overall modern aesthetic.
Sustainability Achievements and Advanced Systems
Sustainability was at the heart of our design. We integrated a suite of advanced systems to reduce environmental impact and operational costs:
- Integrated HVAC:A combined system providing both heating and cooling ensures optimal indoor comfort year-round.
- Mechanical Ventilation & Heat Recovery: This system maintains indoor air quality while recapturing energy, reducing overall consumption.
- Solar Panels & Battery Storage: Harnessing renewable energy, these features reduce dependency on conventional power sources.
- Air Source Heat Pumps: Serving wet systems such as hot water, these pumps also power electric car chargers, aligning with modern green practices.
Our efforts resulted in an impressive EPC rating of 2A – coming in slightly above net zero. For detailed energy performance data, please view the EPC certificate.
Overcoming Design Challenges: The Vaulted Sports Hall
One of the most significant challenges was creating a large open sports hall on the first floor with a vaulted ceiling measuring 20m by 18m. Achieving this required innovative engineering and a carefully planned structural strategy to maintain the open, airy feel of the space while ensuring safety and compliance with building regulations. This solution not only provided a functional area for sports and community activities but also became a striking architectural feature that enhances the building’s overall appeal.
Enhanced Functionality with a Full Commercial Kitchen
In recognition of the centre’s diverse role in the community, we also delivered a full commercial kitchen. This facility supports various events and daily operations, ensuring that the youth centre can cater to a broad range of activities – from cooking classes and community meals to large-scale events.
Collaborative Partnership and Client-Centric Approach
Our longstanding relationship with The Boathouse Youth Charity has been built on trust and mutual respect. Over the past three years, we have collaborated on two significant projects, and our commitment to a client-centred process was key to the success of this latest build.
We have worked with Prospect on two significant projects over the last 3 years and every step of the process has been efficient, effective and client-centred. As the CEO of a Charity it is my responsibility to ensure that the public funds in our custody are spent well, this is a sentiment Chris shares and demonstrates in his every day decision making. It’s been like working with a trusted friend and colleague – and the results are awesome.
Looking Ahead
This project stands as a testament to our commitment to sustainable design, innovative construction techniques, and a client-centred approach. The modern youth centre not only meets the current needs of The Boathouse Youth Charity but also sets a benchmark for future community projects that aspire to be both environmentally friendly and functionally versatile.
Project Milestones and Team Effort
This project was marked by several key milestones:
- Initial Planning and Design: Collaborating closely with the client to capture their vision and requirements.
- Execution of Ground and Structural Works: Precision in piling, drainage, and building erection set a strong foundation for success.
- Integration of Advanced M&E Systems: Coordinated installation of HVAC, ventilation, solar, and heat pump systems ensured energy performance targets were met.
- Final Finishing and Landscaping: The project culminated in detailed internal finishes, painting, and landscaping that brought the design to life.
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