‘Net zero’ office development gets green light

Regeneration specialist Muse has been granted planning permission by South Tyneside Council to build a ‘net zero’ 50,000 sq ft office building, called the Glassworks.

The building is designed to be fossil-fuel free, ultra-low energy and achieve the UK Green Building Council’s 2025 net zero office energy performance target.

Both Muse and the council are also committing to verify the scheme’s operational performance using the new NABERS UK rating system.

A whole-building approach to sustainability was taken to make sure the building improved resource efficiency, with high levels of insulation to minimise heating demands; solar-control glass to minimise cooling demand; enhanced demand-controlled ventilation linked to daylight and occupancy sensors as well as a two-stage air source heat pump to provide low-carbon heating, coupled with an ambient loop system to reduce distribution losses and increase overall efficiency.

The southern part of the site will feature a landscaped area leading down to the Grade II-listed Customs House and Harton Quays Park. The scheme will improve links between the river and the wider town centre regeneration, being delivered by Muse and South Tyneside Council.

‘To receive the news that we’ve been given approval to bring forward our latest sustainable development at The Glassworks, represents a strong endorsement of our commitment to building back better in South Tyneside and the work we’ve done to date in the town,’ said projects director, Andrew Fairest.

‘Despite the challenging times we’re in, we’re still seeing a demand for high-quality office space, that not only provides an agile and positive environment to work from, but is also climate resilient and adaptable to our changing world.

‘At Muse, we’re committed to working with partners in a bid to deliver a tangible and meaningful contribution to reducing the sector’s carbon footprint, while driving inward investment, opportunities and prosperity right into the heart of our communities.’

George Mansbridge, corporate director, regeneration and environment at South Tyneside Council, added: ‘The design and construction processes will result in almost a third less carbon, which is the equivalent of planting four hectares of young woodland forest.

‘Operational energy will be significantly reduced with highly efficient heating, lighting and ventilation systems.

‘The building will also have the ability to connect to a future renewable district heating network in the town.’

Photo Credit – Supplied