5 February 2007 - GREEN DEVELOPMENT LEADS BY EXAMPLE

Work has now started on Shrewsbury’s innovatory new Environmental Technology Centre on a site adjacent to the Gateway at Coton Hill.

The centre, which will house a number of environmental consultancies, will be built with the environment very much in mind.

Frank Galliers Ltd have been appointed as main contractor and will be working with design team partners to provide low energy buildings which will compare favourably with the best national standards. Computer modelling indicates that the building will demonstrate a 70% reduction in C02 emission compared to a standard new building. This reduction has been achieved through the use of biomass for heating, solar photovoltaics for electricity production, heat recovery from the ventilation system and very high levels of insulation.

The core of the building is a glulam timber frame constructed using Forestry Stewardship Council Certified timber.

Galliers Managing Director, David Alexander commented:

” We are pleased to be the main contractor on this exciting project and keen to be at the forefront of best practice in the construction of environmentally sustainable buildings”.

The project is also innovatory as a joint venture initiative between Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council, Advantage West Midlands – funded Rural Regeneration Zone, Indigo Seven and Water Management Consultants Pension Fund.

Speaking about the development Councillor David Roberts commented:

”This is a great example of a public/private sector initiative through which all parties can benefit. The development will not only produce an outstanding environmental building but will also create around 90 new jobs and a return on the financial investment”.

Peter Pawsey is Chairman of the Rural Regeneration Zone which is providing £1/2 million of the £1.8 million scheme. He said ” Shrewsbury is already home to a number of environmental technology companies. The project will help this industry to further flourish whilst also creating a showcase development in the West Midlands for demonstrating sustainable energies and construction “

The centre is due for completion by autumn of 2007.