City development 'set to cut carbon footprint'

A NOTTS developer its pitching businesses who want to cut their carbon footprint a new Grade-A office development close to the city centre. Ultimate Estates is behind the plans for Kingsgate House, which could provide up to 21,000 sq ft of space at the Castlebridge Office Village, near Castle Marina.

The project has been designed to achieve top marks under the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method – known as BREEAM A.

Energy-saving features built into the scheme include air-source heat pumps which will allow the scheme to generate 15% of its energy on site.

Water consumption will also be cut through the use of a "rainwater-harvesting" system.

The development is being marketed on Ultimate's behalf by Nick Dunn from city agents NG Chartered Surveyors and FHP's John Proctor.

Dunn says Kingsgate House has been designed in consultation with Carbon Low Environmental Consultants to deliver maximum environmental benefits and impeccable eco-credentials.

He claims the use of these technologies will reduce the building's carbon footprint and help occupiers meet their carbon reduction commitments.

Kingsgate House can be constructed to provide either a 15,000 sq ft three-storey option, or a 21,000 sq ft four-storey option, both with 45 on-site car parking spaces and 20 cycle racks.

Dunn said: "The developers, Ultimate Estates Ltd, have the ability to fast-track the three-storey option, which has detailed planning consent, and has a 28-week build programme.

"With an early commitment, an interested party could take occupation of their new facility later this year."

The four-storey option has the support of the Local Planning Authority and will take 34 weeks to build.

The development comes amid signs that occupiers are looking for more than simple off-the-shelf office designs, with added value coming from either improved environmental credentials, better quality features and fixtures or distinctive cosmetic treatments.

Kingsgate House will be located on Castle Bridge Road, adjacent to the Castlebridge Office Village, at the fringe of the city centre, providing in-town benefits with an out-of-town location.

John Proctor added: "An occupancy ratio of one person per eight square metres has been allowed.

"[This] is more efficient than the industry norm, and in turn will enable further occupancy cost savings to be secured.

"This is a stunning building, in an excellent location, with all the added benefits of an extremely energy efficient design."