The UK’s First 100% BREEAM Score
The Nova building is like non other. A future-focused design, built for the Oxford science market has already achieved an incredible feat in its development. Nova has become the first UK project to receive a 100% BREEAM New Construction certificate, demonstrating the highest level of sustainability excellence. Our BREEAM consultants have worked on 1000’s of certificates but have reached the peak possible achievement with this UK-based property.
Aiming High
Developed by Wrenbridge and Buccleuch, Nova encompasses 43,745sq ft of mixed research and development (R&D) facilities. It is situated in close proximity to the Oxford Science Park and Arc Oxford and will further boost the UK’s rapid growth within the life sciences sector. From the outset, this project had ambitions to achieve BREEAM Outstanding, and so our consultants were onboarded early into the design phase of the project to maximise its environmental potential. Our established relationship with Wrenbridge meant that we were able to rapidly identify the key BRE criteria and collaborate closely with their team to find the most efficient, sustainable solutions.
Sustainability Excellence
The innovative development has an abundance of environmental features that allowed it to achieve such ground-breaking results. To name a few:
- Scored an EPC A+ rating for steps taken to increase energy efficiency. The facility includes roof mounted solar panels and air source heat pumps, delivering on-site renewable energy generation and low-cost heating and cooling of the building.
- Water efficient fittings ensuring a 50% improvement over the BRE baseline for water consumption
- Significant Biodiversity Net Gain due to the site allowing for maximising ecological enhancement and biodiversity including a wildlife garden and pond area to help establish a valuable natural habitat.
- Sustainable transport measures maximised including 25% EV charging points with future potential for 100%, as well as green roof cycle shelters and improved pedestrian and cycle routes.
- An optimal focus on health and wellbeing with enhanced daylighting within the office spaces including 15% rooflights to provide natural light. Best practice was also demonstrated with the highest internal acoustic performance standards, and ventilation design to ensure excellent internal air quality and minimal risk of external pollutants.
A New Benchmark
The Nova project exemplifies the highest possible standards for new developments, having achieved a 100% BREEAM score. This accomplishment has set a new benchmark for future projects and as we continue to collaborate with Wrenbridge to meet their environmental goals, it won’t be long before more projects reach this remarkable level of success.
“Never would I have imagined I’d see a 100% BREEAM certificate. To be a part of this incredible project and help Nova achieve the highest score in the UK is something the Eight Versa team and I are truly proud of. We have worked on 1000s of BREEAM certifications over the years, and to see this development go above and beyond its target is a credit to all those involved. This has established a new benchmark for BREEAM goals, demonstrating what can be achieved when aiming for the highest level of sustainability impact.” – Becky Armstrong, Associate at Eight Versa
“We are absolutely delighted to have turned our ambitious vision into a reality through this landmark development. To be recognised as the first ever scheme to achieve a 100% BREEAM certificate is remarkable and will raise the bar for all future developments. This achievement was made possible by the innovation, commitment and collaboration with our trusted partners Buccleuch, our BREEAM consultant – Eight Versa, our Main Contractor – Parkway and the whole design team, they have all been sensational.” – Alistair Dunsdon, Director at Wrenbridge
For more information about how our BREEAM consultants can help you with your projects, get in touch or find out more on our BREEAM services page. Whether it be BREEAM New Construction, BREEAM In-Use or any other sustainability assessment, our team would be happy to help.
