For any public sector body it is important to lead by example and when Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council decided to build its new offices at Frankwell Quay, it was fundamental that the building should be environmentally friendly.

Following competitive tendering Bob Costello Associates, the Stafford-based mechanical and electrical consulting engineers were appointed and with their specialist knowledge of developing energy efficient systems Frankwell Quay became a blueprint for the future.

Throughout the building there is natural ventilation which means minimal energy is used to control the working environment. Outside air is circulated throughout the building and is extracted by shafts which require no power if the wind is strong enough to maintain the air flow. On a still day small, low energy fans are activated. Air is exhausted by large roof cowls which have been designed in conjunction with the architects to be a characteristic feature of the building.

Photo-voltaic cells capture sunlight to generate electricity on the roof, and if you visit reception a digital display tells you how much electricity is being generated through solar power. The electric lighting utilises a fraction of the energy of conventional lighting. The toilets are also ultra-efficient using treated rainwater to flush. This is collected from the roof and channelled into a large underground tank, and only when the tank is empty will mains water be used.

Heating is provided through condensing gas-fired boilers which are at the forefront of energy efficiency. The boilers are also low carbon emission and low NOx (Oxides of Nitrogen), which helps minimise any damage to the environment.

Heating is provided through condensing gas-fired boilers which are at the forefront of energy efficiency. The boilers are also low carbon emission and low NOx (Oxides of Nitrogen), which helps minimise any damage to the environment.