Altro visit Ashe Construction site at Bedford Academy

The Altro Sustainability Champions recently had the opportunity to visit the Ashe Construction site at Bedford Academy, where an exciting two-storey extension is underway.

This visit offered valuable insights into the sustainable building techniques being used to achieve Net Zero Carbon in Operation, reinforcing the shared commitment between Altro and Ashe Construction to creating energy-efficient spaces.

During the visit, the team was welcomed by Jim Bisco, Sustainability Head, and Danny Roberts, Project Manager, who provided a detailed tour of the site. They highlighted key sustainable design elements, including:

• Specialised wall coatings – A high-performance coating applied to both sides of the external walls ensures airtightness and enhanced insulation, helping to improve the building’s energy efficiency.
• Photovoltaic (PV) panels – Solar panels installed on the roof will generate renewable energy to power the building.
• Air source heat pumps – These will provide heating, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.
• Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) – This system will improve air quality and temperature regulation, ensuring a comfortable learning environment.

The extension will feature Altro Cantata throughout the main areas and Altro Aquarius in the bathrooms and shower spaces. These adhesive-free floors are designed for durability, low maintenance, and sustainability, making them an ideal fit for a high-traffic educational setting.

Energy efficiency is a key focus for the academy’s new extension. The building’s façade will maintain stringent U-values to minimise heat loss, while MVHR units installed in ceiling voids will regulate airflow and temperature. In colder months, heat from the air source heat pumps will be recovered to warm incoming air, and in summer, a night purge system will help release excess heat, keeping classrooms cool and comfortable.

The visit was an excellent opportunity for the Altro team to witness firsthand how innovative construction techniques are shaping sustainable buildings. Collaboration between manufacturers and construction teams is essential in driving sustainability forward, and Altro is excited to continue learning from Ashe Construction’s expertise. As a next step, Altro will be welcoming Ashe Construction to Letchworth for a Voice of the Customer visit, further strengthening this valuable partnership.