PROJECT OVERVIEW

Hannan Associates were pleased to be part of Morgan Sindall Construction’s team delivering the refurbishment of Manchester City Council’s waste disposal and maintenance depot on Hammerstone Road in Gorton, Manchester.

The project has transformed the historic former locomotive shed at the old Gorton Foundry site into a modern, sustainable operational hub, bringing together a range of Council services alongside Biffa’s waste management and refuse vehicle operations.

Originally occupied by railway manufacturers Beyer, Peacock & Co between 1854 and 1966, the building has significant industrial heritage. The refurbishment has preserved much of the existing structure while adapting the facility to meet the needs of modern council operations.

Hannan Associates provided Building Services Design, Building Physics Design and Sustainability Consultancy Services on behalf of Morgan Sindall, alongside a future design and installation monitoring role.

A key objective of the project was to improve the building’s energy performance and reduce carbon emissions in line with Manchester City Council’s wider sustainability ambitions.

Dynamic thermal simulation was used to inform a fabric-first approach to carbon reduction, helping to improve the building’s thermal performance and energy efficiency.

Renewable energy generation was incorporated through the installation of 2,000 rooftop photovoltaic panels, helping to reduce operational carbon emissions and energy costs.

The development also includes a rainwater harvesting system to supply the vehicle wash facilities, alongside electric vehicle charging infrastructure to support the transition towards lower-emission refuse collection vehicles.

The refurbishment has also delivered upgraded building services, modern office accommodation and improved maintenance facilities, creating a flexible, multi-tenant environment that supports the Council’s operational requirements while extending the life of this historic building.

Following the completion of Phase Three in 2025, the project represents an important example of how sensitive refurbishment, building services engineering and sustainable design can work together to preserve Manchester’s industrial heritage while delivering a modern, energy-efficient facility. We are delighted to have worked alongside Morgan Sindall Construction, Manchester City Council, Fletcher Rae Architects and Curtins on this project.