REGISTRY OF DEEDS ARCHIVE BUILDING (WAKEFIELD)

OVERVIEW

We were appointed by the main contractor Galliford Try to design and install M&E services for a wide range of facilities.

Services were designed to specifically aid those with learning difficulties or disabilities; to enable the teaching of an alternative curriculum; and train apprentices in various vocational roles including catering and hospitality.

CHALLENGE

The building formerly housed over seven million property deeds covering the years 1704 to 1970, along with a large collection of the National Coal Board’s mining records.

With grant support from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Wakefield College embarked on a year-long refurbishment scheme to bring the building back into community use.

Working within the constraints of an existing building provided challenges that required us to re-route services on occasions.

Where M&E services were exposed, we ensured they were tastefully designed and the installation complemented existing features to enhance the overall aesthetic appearance without drawing too much attention away from the periodic internal architecture.

SOLUTION

Internal, external and emergency lighting, small power, general power, containment systems, security detection, alarms, access control, CCTV, a disabled toilet alarm and refuge system were also installed.

RESULTS

Students and staff now benefit from the latest M&E features specifically designed to provide the best environment for learning in the setting of an elegant, historic building full of character.