The Tesco Express & The Spireworks project involved refurbishing an existing Tesco Express store and constructing three storeys of student accommodation above it. This presented significant challenges, as removing the Tesco roof, which housed essential plant, required careful relocation or redesign of key systems. Additionally, the new podium deck structure had to be integrated within the MEP strategy, demanding close collaboration with the structural engineer, architect, and contractor to ensure seamless coordination of services while maintaining Tesco’s full operation.
March Consultants Ltd was responsible for the full MEP design for Tesco and developed a performance specification for the student accommodation. A key challenge was ensuring Tesco remained fully operational throughout the works while integrating the new development’s structural and service requirements without disruption.
The MEP strategy for the student accommodation incorporated a highly efficient air-to-water heat pump system alongside a gas-fired boiler, providing a reliable and sustainable hot water supply. Space heating demand was minimised due to the high thermal performance of the building fabric, allowing for the use of electric panel heaters with LOT20-compliant controls to meet the remaining heating requirement efficiently.
The Tesco store was fully electrified, with space heating and cooling delivered via a VRF air-to-air heat pump system, ensuring energy efficiency and responsive climate control. Domestic hot water was provided through point-of-use electric water heaters, reducing distribution losses and minimising legionella maintenance requirements.
Balanced mechanical ventilation systems with heat recovery were installed in both demises, recovering otherwise wasted energy while ensuring a constant supply of fresh air. In the student accommodation, these systems were integrated with kitchen cooker hoods, offering a discreet and efficient solution.
Given the presence of a commercial kitchen within Tesco, a BESA DW172 and TR19-compliant ventilation system was designed to ensure effective extraction and maintain air quality, adhering to industry best practices.
The design of the above-ground foul drainage system required careful consideration, as student accommodation drainage needed to be routed through the podium deck structure to perimeter service zones. This approach maintained complete separation between the student and Tesco demises while also ensuring accessibility for maintenance, in compliance with Approved Document Part H.
Security and accessibility were critical design factors across the scheme, with a comprehensive door access and security system integrated into the development. Electrical infrastructure was meticulously planned to support power distribution, IT networks, and fire alarm systems, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. Bespoke lighting solutions combined practical base lighting with feature lighting and specialist controls to enhance both functionality and aesthetics.
To support the project’s sustainability objectives, a solar photovoltaic system was installed to generate renewable energy and offset electricity consumption. Additionally, an advanced building management and monitoring system was implemented, allowing for efficient operation and optimisation of all MEP systems.
A crucial element of the project was the successful collaboration with Tesco’s commissioning team, ensuring that all MEP systems were brought online in strict accordance with their operational schedule. This required detailed planning, rigorous testing, and a phased commissioning strategy to integrate new and existing systems without disrupting store operations.
This project demonstrated March Consultants Ltd’s expertise in overcoming complex engineering challenges, successfully integrating retail and residential functions within a constrained urban environment while working closely with the wider design and construction team to ensure seamless service coordination.
