leisure

Gilden Way Community & Sports Centre

Client

Boom Construction

Duration

2 years

Rating

Both buildings achieved ‘A’ rated EPCs

About the project

New construction of high-quality community buildings across two sites in Harlow, designed to support long-term local community use through sustainable features. Key features included integrated renewable energy solutions, open-plan, flexible-use community spaces, and a fully accessible design throughout.

RHB was appointed to complete RIBA Stage 4, establishing the technical design needed for Stage 5 delivery, then novated to Boom Construction for Stage 5 implementation.

Stage 4, the Technical Design stage, developed the concept into detailed, construction-ready plans and specifications. With planning consent secured, the focus was on precise architectural and engineering drawings, specifications, and coordinated technical information for tender and construction.

During Stage 5, our team implemented the designs, managed the site, ensured quality control, and oversaw completion and handover. This phase turned the design into reality through careful management and assurance.

Boom Construction delivered the project in partnership with the Taylor Wimpey plc, Barratt Redrow, and Persimmon Homes Consortium, providing the local community with high-quality, purpose-built facilities. This modern community hub sits within landscaped surroundings and features integrated renewable energy solutions, along with an inclusive, flexible, contemporary design that supports long-term local community use.

Understanding the challenges

Both buildings include intensive MEP services carefully co-ordinated within ceiling and roof voids to ensure the client achieved the aspirational floor-to-ceiling heights required. Sustainable solutions to meet the requirements of BREEAM included heat pumps, photovoltaic cells, low energy lighting and wastewater heat recovery from the showers.

Solutions provided by RHB

We have experience in working on many aspects of a project. Here’s what we did for this project:

Above Ground Drainage

Access Control Systems

Air Source Heat Pumps

Assist with Building Control Submission

CCTV Systems

Car Charging (EVC)

Commissioning Reports

Data Systems

Dealing with Contractors Technical Queries

Defect Site Visits

Design Team Meetings

EPC's

Electric Loads

Emergency Lighting

External Services Layouts

Fire Alarm Strategy

Full Design Specifications

Hot and Cold Domestic Water

Internal Drainage

Intruder/Panic Alarm Systems

Lighting Control

Lighting Layouts

MVHR Systems

Mechanical Ventilation

PV Layouts

Power for Mech Services

Site Inspections

Small Power Layouts

Snagging

Water Loads

More project images

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Want to find out more or discuss your project?

Receiving a well-thought-out MEP concept prior to commencing construction drawings not only reflect RHB’s commitment and professionalism, but also lays the foundation for a successful scheme from the outset.

- Associate Director, KSA Architects

“RHB is one of the most diligent and helpful consultants I’ve worked with.”

- Technical Coordinator, Vistry Bristol

“Vistry Thames Valley and RHB have collaborated closely on several regional developments for the past 6 years. The quality and delivery of the design work, as well as the response of the RHB have always met the high standards we require. I hope the close working relationship we have built will continue for the next 6 years and beyond. It has been a pleasure working with Harvey and his team.”

- Darren McArthur, Regional Technical Director

“I would like to say thank you for your help this year; your patience, professionalism, advice, guidance, for taking my calls and making my job just that little bit easier. It has been a pleasure working with you.”

- Technical Manager, Vistry Southern

“Just a quick email to thank you for all your hard work on our projects. Not many consultants are as helpful and as quick responding as you are!”

- Assistant Development Manager, Lifestory

“From the moment I contacted RHB they were nothing but helpful, friendly and very approachable. Their team assigned to Brooklands Park has been nothing short of amazing. They are knowledgeable, personable and always there to help without complaints. I have recommended RHB to all of my colleagues as a reputable and reliable consultant who we hope to work with for a long time in the future.”

- Technical Co-ordinator, Crest Nicholson

“Throughout the whole project we have found RHB to be hands-on and proactive when assisting with client requirements and instrumental in finding solutions when issues and variations occur as we developed the scheme together, we look forward to continuing our relationship into the next project.”

- Associate Director at SAUNDERS Architecture + Urban Design

“Stuart and his team provided us with invaluable support on our build which was a complicated one due to its size and the features we were looking to incorporate. We are really happy in our new home and we would have no hesitation in recommending RHB Partnership.”

- Private Client

“RHB have been very helpful in sorting out complex site issues and have provided solutions that takes our brief into consideration. They have provided timely responses and have allowed us to swiftly action any major issues. I will definitely recommend RHB to my colleagues for upcoming projects.”

- Technical Manager, Crest Nicholson