Published on Wednesday 16 August 2023
A cutting edge eco hub, created using old wooden seaside defences, has won a sustainability award.
The beach-based venue at Durley Chine, one of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council’s developments, won the prestigious Sustainability prize at the 2023 Constructing Excellence South West (CESW) awards.
The two-storey building was designed around themes of recycling and reusing, featuring an educational amenity and meeting space, welfare facilities for seafront waste collection staff, a beach-side kiosk and toilets on the ground floor.
Over 45 tonnes of reclaimed timber, collected from old groynes removed from the seafront as part of the 17-year Poole Bay Beach Management scheme, were used in the creation and decking of the main building.
One side of the hub’s roof has been planted with species of vegetation matching those growing on the cliffs behind, while the low-lighting design accommodates bats.
Photovoltaic solar panels overlay the rest of the building, drawing solar power from the sun which helps to create a zero-carbon environment. Any excess energy can be fed back into the main grid.
The kiosk has been formed using low-carbon concrete and recycled glass, and drinks and snacks are available while avoiding any single-use plastics. Visitors are encouraged to use the free water refill station, situated by the main entrance.
Councillor Andy Hadley, Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy, said:
"We are proud of our Durley Chine Hub development and are thrilled that its sustainable credentials have been recognised by CESW in their latest annual awards ceremony.
"Our multi-agency teams worked seamlessly throughout the planning and construction processes to create a modern, unique structure which is helping to encourage positive green change to our seafront and will continue to do so for future generations."
Councillor Millie Earl, Deputy Leader of BCP Council and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities, continued:
"BCP Council recognises the importance of acting, developing and operating sustainably. We will be investing in our seafront over the next few years to ensure it remains an exceptional destination for residents, visitors and businesses."
Materials used in the creation of the hub have a low embodied carbon footprint, meaning low carbon dioxide emissions are released during their manufacture, transport to site and use in construction. Reliance on plastics and steel has also been minimalised.
What happens at the end of the building’s life has also been taken into consideration, with many materials capable of being recovered and reused in other projects.
ENDS
Editor’s Notes
CESW are a member-led, cross-sector organisation helping to drive positive change within the construction industry.
The building was put forward for recognition by Footprint Architects.
Read more about the Durley Hub development: BCP Seafront Projects Durley Chine Environmental Hub
Visit CESW’s website: Constructing Excellence SW – Providing an Industry of Opportunity