When it comes to complicated roofing jobs, assembling the right team makes all the difference. Working hand in hand with architects and roofing contractors, Marley was able to provide the right product and support at the right time for a complex roof refurbishment project at Chester Zoo.
With over 20,000 animals on its 128 acres site, Chester Zoo is one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting over 1.6 million visitors each year, and, as part of its ongoing development plans, has recently undertaken a refurbishment project of an old Grade II listed stable block that will provide a standout wedding venue helping to generate additional income.
Overcoming challenges
With a tight construction deadline, listed building challenges, and the presence of a large population of bats in an adjacent roof void to consider, Marley provided a suitable roofing solution to complement the heritage of the stables, whilst also meeting its pressing construction timetable. As a result of the complex brief, 13,000 Marley Canterbury Clay Plain tiles were specified thanks to their striking aesthetics and unique colour blend, effortlessly complementing the existing heritage roofscapes on site at the zoo.
Making complicated simple
Dan Redfern, Marketing Manager at Marley, said: ‘It quickly became clear that that we had several challenges to address, including matching the aesthetics of the roofing solution with a tile choice that could satisfy the special planning requirements of the listed building as well as a build schedule planned around the welfare of the nesting bat population.
‘With the bats’ protected status, it is unlawful to disturb them once they start nesting. This meant that the refurbishment of the building and roof had to commence and be largely completed before the bats returned to the site for nesting season. In addition, there was the technical challenge around the roof ventilation – it had to comply with current British Standards BS 5250, and at the same time, allow enough access for the bats to enter the roof space as they required.’
From sample to supply
Marley’s extensive support, ranging from its sample service, quick material supply to site and expertise from the Technical Team, helped ensure the project delivered on its objectives.
During the early stages of the project, Marley organised tile samples to ensure that the final tile choice – its distinctive Canterbury Clay Plain roof tile – matched existing roof aesthetics on nearby structures and, to comply with the planning requirements of the building’s Grade II listed status, was manufactured using a natural material. Traditionally handmade, the Canterbury delivers a unique and beautiful finish designed to further enhance the aesthetics of the stables.
With the construction timetable under completion pressure, Marley was able to organise swift site delivery of the required tile volumes. By alleviating potential product supply issues which could have compromised the ability to finish the refurbishment on time, Marley’s team ensured the project remained on track.
Specialist advice on hand when required
Marley’s Technical Advisory Service (TAS) was on hand at all stages of the project to ensure the roof ventilation and bat access challenges were met. In particular, the specified ventilation solution at the eaves level not only meets the prevailing standard as set out in the building regulations, but also provides safe and easy access for the nesting bats who have, for many years, used the roof space.
Dan said: ‘It’s been great to use our team’s roofing expertise to help contribute to a successful refurbishment project at Chester Zoo. The work has brought an old building back to life in a sympathetic way and the newly retiled roof, using stunning Canterbury Clay Plain tiles, fits seamlessly in its location, matching the surrounding roofs. We delivered product supply assurance to keep the project to its timescale and, critically, found a ventilation solution that enables the protected bat population to continue in its favoured nesting habitat.’
Kim Halliday, Project Manager at Chester Zoo, said: ‘The roof refurbishment project for the Grade ll listed stables provides Chester Zoo with a fantastic new asset. Restored in a manner so it sits effortlessly within its historical surroundings, the visually appealing roofscape crowns a building which will prove to be immensely popular as a memorable wedding venue. Marley’s product expertise, ongoing support and service commitment was invaluable throughout, and helped us deliver a successful project.’
For more information on Marley’s Canterbury Clay Plain tiles visit Canterbury Handmade Clay Roof Tiles | Marley.
