The completion of the 12-month project at Cartsdyke Apartments in Greenock means that heating and hot water for 49 flats and all communal areas is provided by a 210kw wood-pellet burning biomass system.

As part of the work a new energy centre was constructed next to the apartment block to host the biomass boiler. Morris & Spottiswood secured the role of principle contractor for the entire programme through a design and build procurement route with River Clyde Homes, which manages more than 6,000 homes in the Invercylde area.

Gordon Clyne, operations director at Morris & Spottiswood, said: “All the work that has been carried out over the year-long project has been undertaken with one major aim in mind – to provide high quality energy efficient measures for all the flats.

“Getting a reduction in energy bills was the priority of River Clyde Homes from day one of the programme. The new modern biomass system that has been installed replaces the properties’ electric storage heating with hot water provided by an electric immersion controlled cylinder. Coupled with the insulation work we have carried out, and the new windows and doors installed, the effect of the improvements will be much, much lower energy bills.”

The work was carried out in three phases and included creating a new insulated roof for the 12-story residential block and replacing all external windows in the properties. New flooring coverings were laid as part of the refurbishment of all landings and all the homes received new front doors. The project team also fitted a new external insulated rendering system and curtain walling to the staircase enclosures.

The energy-efficient improvement programme also included creating a new entrance and entrance porch and an external ramp for access. The outside of the building was also given a facelift with the installation of a stonework façade.

“A comprehensive programme of work was needed to install the boiler and to create a heating and hot water system to serve all the flats and Cartsdyke Apartment’s communal areas,” added Mr Clyne. “Delivering this project to its successful completion was a real team effort from a dedicated group of professionals and we’re delighted to be able to hand over the refurbished building to River Cylde Homes.”

Graham McDowall, investment, planning and delivery manager at River Clyde Homes, said: “The refurbishment of Cartsdyke Apartments has many benefits for the local community.

“It has been designated as Silver Living accommodation for those aged over 60 in response to the changing demographics of Inverclyde. We have an increasing older population and suitable properties, particularly in the East End of Greenock are in short supply. These 2-bedroom homes have been refurbished to a high standard, the finish of the entrance and landing spaces is magnificent and set a new standard. They are perfect for those who wish to live independently but close to local shops and transport.”

The team that delivered the scheme included the principal designer AHR Architects; architect Murray Russell Architects; interior designer ARKA; structural engineer David R Murray and Associates; service consultant Atelier Ten and biomass contractors Gibson and Goold.