Present: Cllr R R Dray (Chairman), Cllr D S Efde (DE), Cllr A H Eves (AE), Cllr D J Sperring (DS), Matt Harwood-White (MHW), George Farley (GF), Andrew Rowson (AR), Dawn Tribe (DT) and Peter Buist (PB)
Apologies: Cllr S E Wootton, Cllr Mrs J R Lumley, Cllr M J Steptoe and Duncan Blackie
Notes: Julie Jakes (from recording)
Duration: 10:00 -10:53
Note 76/21
Freight House Presentation
PB reported that the two primary outstanding items from the last presentation were two-fold: the ventilation strategy and the final external finish of the proposed new build. An alternative design of the ventilation system had now been explored that would reduce the impact on the exterior of the building and an alternative external finish had been developed.
The revised ventilation strategy is to locate the mechanical ventilation within a central zone along the ceiling void for the Great Eastern Room, with a series of mechanical units that sit at high level, A series of ceiling rafts would be created which allowed for an integrated approach to lighting and lighting control, as well as creating subtle background lighting up to the underside of the pitched roof. This would also allow for the integration of an AV system and acoustic materials into the Great Eastern Room. The two units could be double skinned, so any noise from the fan internally would not come out through the equipment. Acoustic insulation could also be laid onto the rafts to prevent noise breakout down through the ceiling and into the space.
Regarding the external finish of the proposed new build. PB explained the history of why the building was designed as it was. PB explained the strategy for the new building to reflect the existing Freight House.
The west elevation was the most visible and this is where the reference to cart dock openings could be retained.
The key changes in the revised proposal for the west elevation were:
- brick piers representing the seven principles of public life, which strengthened the contextual relationship with the existing building
- a zinc roof with PVs
- louvre grilles for natural ventilation at first floor
- at the first floor a series of four rectangles, with stone/render framing to represent the Council’s four values, which matched the stone detailing on the existing Freight House
- high performance aluminium windows/curtain walling
- accent canopy to main entrance to increase visibility and sense of arrival. The canopy could also be used as a device to project the visibility of the main entrance into the building.
PB reported that, on the east elevation, the subtle stone framing had been rotated it vertically. The intention would be to use the same materials and louvred panels that could be opened and closed.
Members’ Questions and Responses:
- PB had been working with the landscape architect and now had a final scheme for the pedestrian ramped access which responded to the comments raised previously in terms of how it arrived at the building and lead back towards Bradley Way. PB agreed to provide anupdate at the next meeting. Action: PB
- The heat recovery system would return heat back into the space where it was needed. More information was requested on what facilities would be used to take the air circulation down into the space. Action: PB
- The design proposals allow opportunities to explore branding and signage for the exterior of the building.
- Query on the proposal for a zinc clad roof. PB agreed to explore different alternatives. Action: PB
- More information was requested on Member facilities within the proposal. PB advised that he had focussed on the external appearance today, but would give a revision on the internal layout and accommodation provided at the next opportunity. Action: PB
- Any additional costs for a mechanical heating system would be investigated and would be provided.
- There was a shallow arched top to the historic windows at the Freight House. PB agreed that, on the east elevation, there may be an opportunity to strengthen the link between the existing building and new-build extension. Acton: PB
PB left the meeting.
Note 77/21
Notes of Partnership Panel Meeting on 8 September 2021 and Matters Arising
The notes of the previous meeting were agreed as a correct record.
Matters Arising
In response to a question, MHW confirmed that the Planning team had confirmed that the Freight House was locally listed and stood within the conservation area.
Minute 70/71 - 57 South Street – Update provided by GF
The Fire Service had been engaged with regarding the policy for use of sirens. It is anticipated that noise assessments may be a planning condition requirement.
Drainage of water when cleaning the fire appliance would be investigated to ensure the scheme was not impacted.
Minute 70/71 – Civic Suite – Update provided by GF
Visitor parking – Existing conveyancing agreements had presented challenges regarding both residential and commercial parking.
Electric Charging Points – the plan was for existing points in the Market Car Park to be unaffected.
18 spaces would be lost from the Market Car Park, thus meeting the output specification.
The proposals are for retention and refurbishment, for commercial use, of the section of the Civic Suite building currently used as the Chamber. A parking strategy is being drafted in line with policy. Existing parking arrangements for the site are also being considered.
Note 78/21
Communication and Engagement
DT reported that the media were being kept up to date and a Leader’s statement had also been issued. The Communication Stakeholder meetings were continuing and would be reconvened as appropriate after the meeting of Full Council on 19 October.
Note 79/21
Member issues and questions
No other issues or questions arising.
Note 80/21
Items for next Partnership Board
All items refer to the Freight House:
- Proposed scheme for the pedestrian ramped access
- Heat recovery system. A guide to its operation. – air recirculation facilities
- Roofing materials and options
- Recap of internal layout and accommodation
Note 81/21
Date of Next Meeting
In response to a query from the Chairman, MHW advised that the current series of meetings had come to an end. It was agreed that, in consultation with the Chairman, more dates would be proposed. Action: MHW
Post Meeting Note: The next meeting of the Partnership Panel will take place on Friday, 5 November 2021 at 10:00