Borough's first net zero carbon building lifted into place

Modular structures have been put into place which will form the Wokingham borough’s first net zero carbon building.

The new Dinton Activity Centre at Dinton Pastures country park, designed by HLM Architects, will open its doors to visitors in late Spring.

The modular units were constructed in the Reds10 factory in Driffield, Yorkshire, transported to Dinton and then lifted into place.

Cllr Gregor Murray, executive member for resident services, communications and emissions said: “It’s incredibly exciting to see us move one-step closer to our ambition of being carbon neutral by 2030. Not only will the activity centre provide the community with state-of-the art facilities, but it will also be our first energy positive building.”

Alex Pullin, project architect at HLM Architects, said, “We’ve designed this new centre with the community’s needs at the front and centre. Working closely with the team the design sensitively sits within the natural landscape while creating a sense of place and having a positive impact on future users.”

Green features of the building include windcatchers and solar panels on the roof and air source heat pumps for low cost heat.

Siberian larch cladding on the building, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, will weather over time to blend with the surroundings.

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