28/04/10 - Thomas Vale work on New Development in Bilston

All of the new dwellings will be timber framed with solar panels and will include mechanical ventilation with heat exchange (also known as MVHR). MVHR is an energy recovery ventilation system, using equipment known as a heat recovery ventilator, which employs a counter-flow heat exchanger between the inbound and outbound air flow. HRV provide fresh air and improved climate control, while also saving energy by reducing the heating (or cooling) requirements.

The ABC project will transform the Addison Place, Boswell Road and Chantry Crescent area of the Lunt. During this project 30 properties have been demolished. Other properties will be refurbished, internally and externally in order to bring housing up to modern standards and will make the properties more energy efficient. Neighborhood renewal staff have been visiting residents who will have their houses renewed; to talk with them about the scope of the works involved and to arrange temporary accommodation whilst work is completed.

As the demolished houses were situated on top of an old mining site, Thomas Vale has had to treat the ground due to old coal seams. Grout was then injected into the ground to strengthen it.

Construction sites are always considered a dangerous place however at Thomas Vale safety of the general public and the work force is always given the highest priority.

Thomas Vale has teamed up with local youngsters and teachers in the vicinity to raise awareness of health & safety, environmental, community and respect for people issues. The new Safe or Sorry (SOS) Initiative designed and implemented by Thomas Vale, follows on from numerous others that are undertaken when working in schools and high residential areas; highlighting the potential dangers and local respect issues that can surround live construction sites. The SOS Initiative has been designed to ensure a buy-in from the next generation including the protection of their own and the local environment, having respect for their elders and peers so as to target the reduction in anti-social behaviour and caring for their local community, encouraging team spirit and getting involved in social responsibility in the areas they live.