Energy saving project is a Pace-setter at Saltaire

Pace, based in Salts Mill in Saltaire, West Yorkshire, has introduced a number of carbon reduction initiatives during a 12-month upgrade of the 19th century Grade II listed offices, which has reduced energy consumption by up to 40 per cent in some areas.

Work included introducing heat and body sensors to switch lights off in unoccupied rooms, electronic measurement of energy consumption and harvesting daylight.

The site houses more than 450 employees in nine research and development labs, several open-plan administration areas and offices for senior executives. Pace commissioned building refurbishment and office interiors company Waterhouse and mechanical and electrical partners CTS to bring it up to date.

Managing director John Waterhouse said: "What's great to see in this project is an old building being updated for a more sustainable future. New builds have green credentials incorporated into the design from the outset, but to convert old buildings into environment friendly work spaces is no mean feat, and we're very proud of the results."

The work has resulted in a 40 per cent reduction of energy consumption in the new labs – 25 per cent more than the original target.

Neil Gaydon, chief executive of Pace, said: "Our brief for this project was to work with the heritage of the building and to meet and where possible exceed the standards set for energy efficiency in modern buildings."

Waterhouse, based in East Ardsley, Leeds, restored existing features, enhanced others and replaced systems that were not equipped to handle the required eco-efficient upgrades. Office carpet tiles have been redeployed, office furniture and timber joists recycled, and builders' waste separated and 90 per cent reclaimed.

As well as an on-site caf and the development of a new gym and

showers, staff now have facilities to encourage cycling to work.