Sutcliffe Consulting Engineers Support Modern Learning Environments at Hull College Through Levelling Up Project
Sutcliffe Consulting Engineers, based in Kingston upon Hull, has successfully completed the redesign of building services for Corridor A and the CITB Building at Hull College as part of the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund initiative.
The project focused on creating a healthier, more energy-efficient and adaptable learning environment for students through a comprehensive upgrade of mechanical and electrical systems.
A key feature of the refurbishment was the installation of new Mitsubishi Electric Lossnay Ventilation Units to provide the ventilation rates required within the refurbished teaching spaces. These systems deliver a constant supply of fresh air, helping to maintain a comfortable and productive learning environment for students and staff.
Working closely with the contractor, Vic Coupland Ltd, the project team maximised the reuse of existing building infrastructure. Existing penetrations throughout the building were identified and reused for new supply and extract louvres, reducing the need for additional structural alterations and improving overall project efficiency.
Detailed heating calculations were also undertaken to determine the correct sizing for newly installed Powrmatic LTHW heating units. The new equipment was successfully integrated with the building’s existing low temperature hot water (LTHW) pipework network, ensuring the system provides adequate heating capacity while making effective use of the existing infrastructure.
Due to changes in the use of the refurbished spaces, the original electrical systems were removed and replaced with new installations designed to support modern teaching environments. The lighting design incorporates daylight harvesting technology, allowing luminaires to automatically dim when sufficient natural light is available from the building’s roof windows. Absence detection controls were also installed to ensure lights are automatically switched off when areas are unoccupied. Together, these systems help create an optimal learning environment while reducing energy consumption and the facility’s overall carbon footprint.
The mechanical engineering teaching area also received specialist electrical infrastructure, including high-level connection facilities via busbar trunking. This approach allows future flexibility for equipment such as lathes, milling machines and other metal fabrication machinery, enabling the college to adapt workshop layouts as teaching requirements evolve.
New distribution boards were installed throughout the refurbished areas, with separate metering for each service type. This allows Hull College to monitor energy consumption across different teaching departments and better manage energy usage across the campus.
Digital coordination played a critical role in the project’s success. Using Autodesk Revit, the design team at Sutcliffe Consulting Engineers worked closely with both mechanical and electrical designers and the management and installation teams at Vic Coupland Ltd to coordinate the large number of services running through the building. This collaborative approach ensured efficient installation and smooth integration of the new systems.
The completed project delivers modern, flexible and energy-efficient teaching spaces that support both the learning experience and the long-term sustainability goals of Hull College.