DUCTWORK - THE GREAT XSCAPE

The centre caters for both active and more leisurely recreation. Visitors can ski and snow board on the real-snow ski slope, visit clubs and a fitness centre. Others, out for a shop-till-you-drop day out, have an extensive mall with bars, restaurants and even a 16 screen cinema for a final wind down. High occupancy will place large and variable loads on the HVAC system. The variety of environments was a key challenge while the physical configuration of the building also presented further trials.

The multi-role building has been designed by architects Faulkner Brown of Newcastle-on-Tyne. This takes the form of a half cone, with a great arch at one end tapering away to nothing. In plan view the development is triangular, with multiple levels. Within this structure there are dedicated spaces for the various activities.

Each activity has independent environmental services with fresh and exhaust air ducted via large diameter ductwork. This measures up to 5.5 metres in plant rooms with long runs of large diameter 3, 2 and 1.5 metre ductwork. Much of the extract ductwork is dual role and uses Senior Hargreaves unique HFD fire resistant construction to port products of combustion safely away in an emergency.

Installation using rope access was required in some areas, thus avoiding disrupting other trades by scaffolding open spaces. This technique has been used by Senior Hargreaves in the past to provide safe, speedy and economical installation of large diameter ductwork, most notably on the 19,000 seat Manchester Arena.

Senior Hargreaves have installed the entire air intake and exhaust systems for the ski slope and main leisure areas. They have provided core services for the mall into which individual retailers will connect their own services. Mechanical services were designed and specified by the St Alban's office of Oscar Faber and Partners and the main contractors are Sir Robert McAlpine. Senior Hargreaves worked under the general mechanical services contract of Drake and Scull who were specifically responsible for the chilling facilities on the snow slope.

The catchment area for the new complex comprises a 1.6 million population within 40 minutes travel time and a potential 22 million customers within 2 hours. Owner operator, Capital and Regional Properties, is confident that the centre will attract substantial attention when it opens in May. Nevertheless, they have plans for similar developments around the UK. Perhaps soon everyone will be able to Xscape?

Uploaded: February 9, 2000

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