Sustainable Lancaster University

Sustainability : Why bother ? Climate Change Depleting natural resources Rising utilities & fuel prices Universities educate : that includes how people live & behave

Lancaster’s Approach Laying the foundations –Commitment to sustainability is explicit in the University’s strategic plan –Clear environmental policy –Resource commitment to environment & sustainability –Holistic approach to sustainability in Estate Development Masterplan including refurbishments

Student Residences The existing partnership arrangement between the University and UPP Lancaster has already created : Phase rooms Phase rooms Phase rooms Phase 4776 New build rooms 176 Refurbished rooms 3750m² Academic/College Refurbishment

Phase 4

What students thought about earlier phases Nice Rooms – but too expensive. No dedicated social spaces indoors or outdoors. How green are they ?

Design Process A Phase 4 working group was set up : Chaired by a member of the University Council [ who is also a successful housing developer ]. Student representatives included –LUSU President –Education & welfare officer –JCR College Presidents College Principals UPP & Estates team

Our Brief to UPP Main Considerations: Product Performance – Sustainability and Environment Enhanced living space and social provision Style & Quality – both at product and development level Low rent proposition >> Low delivery and running costs

Sustainability Target New Build –BREEAM / Eco-homes Excellent Refurbishments –BREEAM / Eco-homes very good

Flexible social housing solution Low waste – lower cost Highly sustainable by design Healthy home by design Highly energy efficient by design Attractive “lifestyle” product offer Educational experience opportunity

The construction process Timber framed solution Lighter weight foundations [less concrete] Off site manufacture/less site generated waste Speedier construction Watertight quicker allowing internal fit out to progress in parallel FSC certified timber Low or no emission paints & fabrics Internal ventilation & heat recovery system Low energy fittings

UPP adaptation for modern student accommodation

Full ground floor social space (4 storey) Kitchen Lounge Diner Patio

Non En-Suite Bedrooms Adjacent shower room

Bedroom Floor - shared shower rooms

The numbers.. Carbon Footprint : 25% less per student Insulation : up to 50% better Utilities : up to 20% less in use £30k per student bed – free living room ? Circa 15% cheaper in construction cost than previous phases

Presentation Summary Phase 4 accommodation is cheaper to build than previous phases The rent is £10 per week cheaper per bedroom. There is a fantastic social space in the open plan lounge, kitchen/diner. This wasn’t provided on previous phases. Phase 4 has achieved a BREEAM / Eco-homes Excellent rating, one of only 4 student residences projects to do so. They are predicted to use up to 20% less energy/utilities than previous accommodation. We’re monitoring this closely!

Students can monitor usage in real time via the internet. They can consciously reduce the cost of their accommodation whilst at university by using less energy. Recycling facilities are designed into the accommodation. Outdoor spaces and facilities enhance and extend the live and learn spaces on campus. ‘WiFi & BBQ’s”. Asked if there was anything that they’d change, the first students occupiers said NO – they are genuinely pleased with this eco-friendly accommodation.

Questions & Answers