Grays (Consulting Engineers) Limited are engaged as the Civil and Structural Engineers on this exciting development at Bute Street. This site is one of three ‘Community Living’ schemes that are being developed concurrently by Cardiff Council as part of their Older Persons Housing Strategy. The proposal looks to create 45 one and two bed independent living apartments to replace existing provision in the Butetown area that has become unsuitable for the current needs of its residents.
The building is composed as a series of three volumes, rising to six stories on the corner of Bute Street and Hannah Street before stepping down towards the west and south. Roof areas are used as amenity space for residents and to promote biodiversity. All apartments are located on the upper floors, with the ground floor providing residents access to a shared lounge and garden.
The development is a six storey RC structural frame founded with piles and ground beams. SuDS drainage features considered of rain gardens and a green roof which was attenuated before discharging into the surface water network at an agreed discharge rate.
Highways improvements were designed in conjunction with the Local Authority regulators, with more formal parking introduced for residents.
In line with Cardiff Council’s “One Planet Vision” scheme, the site will achieve low-carbon credentials. Ground source heat pumps will be used as a clean and alternative energy source to gas while PV panels will reduce the demand for electric, minimising the environmental impact and reduce ongoing running costs for residents.