Delivering Sustainable M&E Infrastructure for Future Focused Education

Client:
Chesterfield College
Main contractor:
Robertson Construction
Date:
February 2026
Value:
£2,000,000

Project Overview

We were proud to support the delivery of Chesterfield College’s new Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences Building, a landmark £10 million investment in sustainable engineering and science education. Delivered by Robertson Construction, the 2,450m² new build facility has been designed to provide a modern, future-focused environment that equips students with the skills required to meet the demands of an evolving manufacturing and technology landscape.

From the outset, the project was centred around innovation, sustainability, and long-term regional impact. The facility will serve students across science, engineering, manufacturing, construction, and automotive disciplines, creating a dedicated hub for advanced technical training.

Our appointment covered the full mechanical and electrical installation package, with a contract value of £2 million. We were responsible for coordinating and delivering all building services to ensure seamless integration within the architectural design and compliance framework.

Working closely with Robertson Construction and the wider consultant team, we ensured that every element of the M&E infrastructure was aligned with programme milestones and performance requirements. With a planned opening in 2026, our role has been to ensure the building’s infrastructure performs reliably from day one.

Sustainability & Fabric First Strategy

Energy efficiency and sustainability were central to the project brief. The building has been developed using a fabric-first approach, prioritising the performance of the structure itself to reduce energy demand before services were introduced.

By maximising insulation levels, airtightness, and overall thermal performance, we were able to design mechanical and electrical systems that complement the building envelope rather than compensate for inefficiencies. This approach allows services to operate more efficiently while reducing long-term operational costs.

Our systems were designed to support the College’s ambition to lower its carbon footprint in line with the UK’s 2050 Net Zero target. The integration of efficient plant, carefully selected equipment, and intelligent controls ensures the building operates sustainably in everyday use.

The services strategy reflects the College’s focus on sustainable technologies and modern engineering practices. As part of a curriculum emphasising green skills and low-carbon innovation, the building itself acts as a live example of responsible design and efficient system integration.

Specialist Teaching Environments & Technical Installations

Internally, the facility includes an advanced engineering lab, electrical installation workshop, electric and hydrogen vehicle workshop, 3D print and prototype workshop, science laboratories, ICT suites, and collaborative learning spaces. Each area required tailored M&E solutions to suit its operational requirements.

Within technical workshops and laboratories, ventilation strategies were carefully designed to support safe operation and regulatory compliance. Power distribution systems were configured to accommodate specialist equipment and teaching apparatus while maintaining resilience and accessibility.

Plant selection and system configuration were aligned with the building’s performance objectives, ensuring reliable heating, cooling, ventilation, and power across varied teaching environments. Control strategies were implemented to support efficient operation while maintaining flexibility for evolving curriculum needs.

Our installation ensures that each space is functional, compliant, and future-ready. The building’s infrastructure supports both current training requirements and the potential introduction of new technologies as education and industry demands continue to evolve.

This project is about more than delivering building services; it’s about creating an environment that supports the next generation of engineers and scientists. From an M&E perspective, our focus has been on ensuring every system is efficient, reliable, and aligned with the sustainability ambitions of the College. We’ve worked closely with the wider team to deliver a technically robust installation that not only performs today but supports future learning and innovation for years to come.

Lee Martin - Project Manager, Heb Mechanical & Electrical

Coordination, Programme & Site Strategy

Coordination was key throughout delivery. With complex service requirements across multiple specialist teaching zones, we worked proactively to manage programme pressures, maintain quality standards, and ensure installation accuracy.

Regular collaboration with Robertson Construction and the design team enabled us to resolve challenges early and maintain steady progress as the structure advanced through key milestones, including completion of the steel frame. Clear communication and disciplined sequencing were essential to keeping the installation aligned with programme requirements.

Beyond the new build itself, the wider site strategy includes the demolition of the existing North Block 1 building and a temporary structure once the new hub is complete. This will remove outdated Category C/D accommodation and allow for the creation of revitalised green space across the campus.

From a building services perspective, we ensured that the new installation supports this transition seamlessly. Infrastructure has been designed for longevity and minimal future disruption, allowing the College to modernise its estate while maintaining operational continuity.

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