Illuminating the Path to Educational Excellence

 

Discover how Zumtobel and its sister brand Thorn, both lighting brands of the Zumtobel Group, helped the new Milltimber School become an award-winning educational facility, promoting sustainability, wellbeing, and a conducive learning environment.

The £16.4 million Milltimber School, part of the Oldfold Farm development, earned the Aberdeen Society of Architects (ASA) Education Design Award 2023. As part of a £100 million investment by Aberdeen City Council in four new schools, the facility offers modern, sustainable, and inclusive learning spaces for the growing catchment area.

To meet the evolving educational needs of the community, the ambitious project at the new Milltimber School aimed to create spaces that encourage active learning and enhance student experiences.

A key success of the design was how the spaces between the buildings were utilised to create moments that could enhance curriculum delivery. The shape and structure of the rooms, alongside colourful wayfinding and nature-themed supergraphics, reflect the natural forms of nearby landscapes and help define the character within the school’s spaces.

A lighting manufacturer to meet expectations

Discover how Zumtobel and its sister brand Thorn, both lighting brands of the Zumtobel Group, helped the new Milltimber School become an award-winning educational facility, promoting sustainability, wellbeing, and a conducive learning environment.

Wallace Whittle M&E practice, describes, “The lighting design was a dynamic process due to changing spaces, but Zumtobel’s adaptability, wide range of luminaires and history of successful projects made them the perfect partner for this project.”

Today, the school boasts a sophisticated lighting solution that enhances the learning environment and meets sustainability goals.

A combination of Zumtobel and Thorn luminaires have provided the biggest visual impact, creating a natural and comfortable learning environment within the classrooms. From the nursery, corridors, and bathrooms, to the classroom, back of house areas and sports hall, the lighting design includes Zumtobel’s SLOTLIGHT infinity, ALVA, ONDARIA, CRAFT II plus, RESCLITE PRO, and PANOS Q, alongside Thorn Lighting’s IQ Wave, Chalice, Beta2, Aquaforce, Piazza, Katona, and Omega Pro 2.

Design flexibility

The services and lighting have all been positioned to allow easy installation of class division partitions should an alternative layout be required, allowing the school to adapt the spaces for future use.

Low energy, low maintenance, maximum impact

The lighting installation has resulted in significant benefits, including low energy use, low maintenance costs, and a positive impact on the overall learning experience for both students and staff.

Zumtobel and Thorn’s lighting solutions were crucial in making the Milltimber School a success. Their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and creating spaces that enhance education, aligns with the school’s vision, resulting in a broader trend of smart, energy-efficient lighting in educational facilities.

Zumtobel and Thorn have also provided lighting solutions for the three other schools within the project, demonstrating their expertise in creating conducive learning environments in educational spaces. These projects, including Countesswells New Primary School and Torry New Primary School & Community Centre, showcasing Zumtobel and Thorn’s dedication to transforming education through innovative lighting solutions.

 

For more information about the respective products

CLICK TO GO TO Thorn Lighting

CLICK TO GO TO Zumtobel

 

 

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Combilift Unveils Self-Propelled Inloader at Bauma 2025

Munich, Germany – Combilift, the global leader in innovative material handling, unveiled its pioneering Self-Propelled Inloader ‘COMBi-SPI’ at Bauma 2025. This highly anticipated launch marks a significant milestone in the transport of high loads, such as precast concrete, wall panels or glass A-frames, within production facilities and yard environments.

Revolutionising High-Load Transport

Development of the COMBi-SPI began in April 2022, driven by the need for an efficient, manoeuvrable, and cost-effective alternative to expensive trailers and trucks. The objective was clear: to create a versatile solution capable of handling 30-tonne loads on industry standard Inloader Pallets with superior visibility, agility, and ease of operation.

The collaboration with Spaansen, a specialist in precast concrete, influenced the design through to the final stages. Early prototypes focused on reducing overall length and width and enhancing manoeuvrability for working in busy production facilities. However, the project took a significant turn when Spaansen opted for a fully electric model mid-development. This shift required a complete redesign to integrate the electric wheel motors as well as fit the interchangeable batteries into the legs of the machine.

Advanced Features for Unmatched Performance

  • Side-Facing Cab: Provides operators with a clear view of both the load and direction of travel, ensuring enhanced safety and precision.
  • Sliding Load Supports: Adjustable supports along the chassis to accommodate various load lengths and heights during travel.
  • Pivoting Front Dual-Wheel Configuration: Eliminates the need for suspension, optimises stability and gives a tighter turning circle.
  • 300mm Ground Clearance: Designed for both concrete and gravel yards, offering reliability across diverse work environments.
  • Power Options: Available in Electric (with interchangeable battery system), Diesel, and LPG, catering to different operational needs.
  • Large Solid Tires for durability and yard maintenance.
  • Compact Yet Powerful: The short chassis enhances load support, maintains a low centre of gravity and offers more manoeuvrability, especially while operating within production facilities.

Industry-Changing Efficiency

With unmatched manoeuvrability and faster operational speed, the Self-Propelled Inloader transforms yard-based logistics by eliminating the reliance on multiple trailers and shunters, significantly enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs for businesses handling oversized, high loads.

“This project showcases Combilift’s commitment to innovation and customer-driven design,” said Josh Moffett – Heavy Equipment Manager at Combilift. “We’ve leveraged decades of expertise in specialised transport machinery to develop a state-of-the-art solution that meets the evolving needs of the concrete and glass industries.”

The Self-Propelled Inloader is now on display at Bauma 2025 at stand FS.1003/4. Attendees are invited to experience this revolutionary solution firsthand and discover how it redefines material handling for high-load applications

For further information, visit www.combilift.com/spi or contact our team at Bauma 2025.

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TORMAX Opens University

Striving to be recognised as a modern college that welcomes students from a wide range of backgrounds, Trinity College, in central Oxford, developed the new Levine Building. 

The building is a benchmark for overall accessibility, with main contractor, Gilbert Ash, specifying TORMAX to automate ten key access points throughout the building. Delivering reliable swing door automation, TORMAX installed their technologically superior iMotion 1301 to the main entrance doors and elsewhere in the building. For the aesthetically sensitive entrances, TORMAX recommended the iMotion 1401 operator which is neatly housed in a casing beneath floor to create invisible automation. 

As Trinity College has continued to improve accessibility elsewhere on campus, TORMAX has automated three further swing door entrances.

The Levine Building is designed by ADAM Architecture and is a modern classical building that sits harmoniously within a rich built and landscape heritage. Focusing on the College’s ambition to improve diversity of applicants, user groups were drawn from across the whole College community so that specific needs could be addressed. 

Providing world-class facilities for teaching, residential accommodation, public outreach, and social activity, the Levine Building has level access to all public areas, teaching rooms at ground floor level and two new lifts. The TORMAX automated doors help ensure ease of movement throughout the building for all users. 

Andy Hooper, Clerk of Works at Trinity said: “The careful planning that went into ensuring that all elements of the facility can be accessed by everyone is evident throughout, with lifts, no-step accessible rooms and automated doors.”

www.tormax.co.uk

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Cost Savings and a Greener Campus with Zumtobel‘s Emergency Lighting Upgrade

Munster Technological University Kerry (MTUK) updates its emergency lighting and switches to Zumtobel’s central battery system, achieving IS:3217 emergency lighting compliance, substantial cost savings, and a greener campus. Discover how Zumtobel and its sister brand Thorn have illuminated a path to efficiency.

An aged emergency lighting system threatened compliance and safety at Munster Technological University Kerry (MTUK). Determined to achieve a greener, more efficient campus, they procured the services of the Zumtobel Group lighting brands Zumtobel and Thorn for a comprehensive solution. The result? Automated reporting, substantial cost savings, and a safer, more illuminated campus.

MTUK’s Challenges

Compliance obligations loomed over MTU’s aging emergency lighting systems. Seeking a future-proof solution compliant with IS:3217, they sought a single supplier for a central battery system and modern lighting upgrades. Sustainability and affordability were key priorities.

Zumtobel Group’s Approach

Renowned for lighting innovations, Philip Dewey, Key Account Manager at Zumtobel Group, explains, “MTUK needed a comprehensive solution. We provided a single-source central battery system, efficient LED emergency lighting, all aligned with their sustainability goals. This holistic approach not only ensures compliance, but slashed maintenance costs, provides automatic testing to IS:3217 standards and any faults reported can now be actioned immediately, maintaining full compliance and safety for everyone.” 

Phased Transformation

The process unfolded in two strategic phases, prioritising high-traffic areas. Collaborating with O’Connell Electrical Services Ltd, Zumtobel and Thorn worked tirelessly to ensure minimal disruption. Zumtobel’s EBox central battery system, RESCLITE PRO emergency lighting, PURESIGN signage and Thorn Voyager Solid were seamlessly integrated throughout the campus.

Innovation Overcoming Challenges

Rising raw material costs, Covid constraints and time limitations demanded flexibility. Philip highlights, “Switching from the tendered ECD 5 core installation option to an ECP 3 core installation proved crucial. This choice facilitated faster installation and significant cost savings.”

Emergency Compliance, Streamlined Maintenance

Zumtobel’s EBox met every compliance requirement. Email fault reports ensure immediate response, minimising downtime and guaranteeing continuous compliance. Aidan O’Sullivan, MTUK Buildings Officer, remarks, “Maintenance needs plummeted by 90%. The 10-year battery warranty and reduced electronic waste align perfectly with MTUK’s sustainability vision.”

Aidan O’Sullivan concludes, “From professionalism to innovative solutions, Zumtobel Group exceeded expectations – their commitment was exemplary.”

Success Leads to Future Projects

Impressed by Zumtobel and Thorn’s innovative solutions and seamless execution, the University entrusted them with their next challenge: an interior lighting upgrade across various campus buildings.

Driven by a commitment to sustainability and the impending fluorescent ban, MTUK sought to reduce energy consumption and modernise their existing lighting fixtures. Knowing their expertise in efficient lighting solutions, they invited Zumtobel Group lighting brands to tender for the project.

In a highly competitive market, the company’s exceptional track record and understanding of MTUK’s needs distinguished them. Their expertise played a vital role in tackling a challenge in the library, where stringent exam schedules demanded rapid and efficient installation. Rising to the challenge, Zumtobel proposed their TECTON continuous row lighting solution, a modular system renowned for its quick installation and superior lighting performance.

The final solution embraces a variety of luminaires, each carefully chosen to meet specific needs and seamlessly integrate with existing elements. Zumtobel’s TECTON, AMPHIBIA and VIVO II and Thorn Lighting’s Punch, College, Diffusalux, Cetus, Anna, Amy, Julie, and Lara all play vital roles, not only in addressing energy efficiency, but also in enhancing the learning environment. The adaptable TECTON system with its direct/indirect MPO fittings introduced a new dimension to the library, creating a brighter, more inviting space for students and faculty alike.

For more information about the respective products, please visit www.thornlighting.co.uk or https://z.lighting/en/zumtobel/.

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Illuminating a Greener Campus for a Brighter Future

Thorn Lighting’s exterior luminaires reduce Munster Technological University Kerry’s (MTUK) external energy consumption and costs by over 50%, creating a warmer and more inviting ambience on campus.

After the successful interior and emergency lighting upgrade as part of their Building and Estates Energy Projects, Munster Technological University Kerry’s (MTUK) sought to upgrade their existing street and building surround lighting. The university’s Green Campus Mission prioritises environmental considerations, aiming to identify, advance, and promote its Green Agenda with the goal of minimising its environmental impact.

The objective of the exterior lighting upgrade was twofold: to decrease energy consumption and carbon footprint while enhancing lighting aesthetics, utilising a 3000K colour temperature for car park lighting and 4000K against the buildings.

A creative combination of functional and decorative light

A balanced blend of functional and decorative lighting elements was employed. The Dark Sky-approved 3000K Isaro Pro state-of-the-art streetlights in the car parks deliver exceptional efficiency and minimise the impact of artificial light on the environment, aligning precisely with MTUK’s project objectives.

Incorporating decorative D-CO LED luminaires such as Piazza, Eyekon, Katona, and Leo, meticulously designed for energy efficiency, has allowed the university to make significant strides toward reducing its environmental footprint while adding visual interest and safety enhancements to the buildings.

Colour for impact

Strategic lighting temperature selections have optimised visibility and ambience campus-wide. By combining 3000K for car park lighting and 4000K for building surrounds, MTUK has cultivated a warm, inviting atmosphere conducive to fostering a sense of community and engagement among students, staff, and local visitors.

Thorn Lighting’s LED luminaires have delivered remarkable results, halving annual external energy consumption from 105,308 kWh to 53,106 kWh and reducing CO2 emissions from 35,561 kg to 17,163 kg. This achievement underscores MTUK’s dedication to sustainability and highlights the tangible benefits of investing in energy-efficient solutions.

With a payback period of less than 4.5 years and enduring benefits, MTUK’s investment in Thorn Lighting’s solutions illuminates the path to a brighter, greener future. 

For more information on Thorn Lightings Outdoor range please visit https://www.thornlighting.co.uk/en-gb/products/outdoor-lighting

 

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East Lothian Learning Campus Chooses Dorma Huppe Moveable Wall

East Lothian’s newest secondary school, situated within the £47.2m Wallyford Learning Campus, prioritises space flexibility with the installation of a Dorma Huppe Variflex ComfortDrive moveable wall, allowing the main drama and assembly hall to be quickly and easily divided into two separate areas, whenever required. 

Partitioning experts, Style, worked with JM Architects and Morrison Construction to deliver delivered adaptable space to this heavily used facility.

“This is a large space with a high ceiling,” said Angela McGowan, sales director for Style Scotland. “As a result, the panels are 4.6 metres tall which is why the fully automated operation is an advantage, as it would be more difficult to manoeuvre such large panels by hand.”

The secondary school incorporates modern teaching and social spaces for 1,000+ pupils. There is also specialist provision for secondary age young people with severe and complex needs; a dedicated Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM) centre; and a Tots and Teens area.

The Wallyford Learning Campus also provides access to sport, health and wellbeing facilities, outdoor learning, employability and training opportunities, for both adults and young people.

Maximising the use of the hall, the Variflex moveable wall glides into place at the push of a button, dividing the room into two and forming an impressive acoustic separation due to its 57dB acoustic rating. This means a noisy class on one side will not disturb more quiet teaching on the other.

“The moveable wall opens up the options as to how the hall is utilised,” said McGowan. “It also means savings on heating and lighting costs can be achieved by closing off half the hall whenever it is not required.”

The Variflex moveable wall has a chic, black laminate finish. Extending the wall’s lifespan, each panel can be replaced individually if it becomes damaged or scuffed. This is a great advantage in busy public places, such as school and colleges, particularly where children may be undertaking drama or sports classes.

Style also has a UK-wide service and repair team, with service contracts available to ensure ongoing smooth operation of almost any moveable wall system.

www.style-partitions.co.uk

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Scotland’s leading modern university introduces step-free access in its cyberQuarter building

Abertay University, recently ranked as a top modern university in the National Student Survey, is setting an exemplary standard in terms of accessibility by introducing step-free access across all five floors of the cyberQuarter building, thanks to Stannah lifts. 

This lift retrofit and installation was awarded to Stannah, who secured first place in the APUC framework. This process allows the university to award contracts without the need for a tendering process, streamlining the project and ensuring top-quality work from a trusted provider. 

Located in Scotland, the university formerly known as the University of Abertay Dundee blends traditional and contemporary design, with the old college dating back to 1888. The university is home to Abertay’s cyberQuarter, a cutting-edge £18m cybersecurity research and development centre. This state-of-the-art facility brings together students, academics, and organisations to collaboratively address global cybersecurity challenges.

The works

The existing lift in the building had become increasingly unreliable, with frequent breakdowns and maintenance issues that disrupted operations. This highlighted the need for a modernised lift system that could ensure consistent performance and compliance with current safety standards.

After a thorough evaluation by Stannah, it was clear that the best solution was to completely replace the old lift with a new, Stannah Machine Room-Less (MRL) traction lift. This type of lift not only meets all necessary safety standards but also provides enhanced efficiency and reliability, making it an ideal choice for the university.

Stannah was responsible for the entire design process of the new lift, ensuring it was tailored to the building specifications and client’s needs. They also managed all on-site works, overseeing the removal of the old lift and the installation of the new MRL traction lift. 

The challenge 

This project involved the complex task of removing the existing and installing a new lift system while the building remained a live teaching environment.

One of the primary challenges was ensuring the safety of all visitors throughout the construction process. This included keeping corridors clear and free from obstructions, implementing rigorous safety protocols, and maintaining minimal noise levels to avoid disrupting classes. To address these concerns, Stannah adhered to CDM (Construction Design and Management) regulations.

Due to the fact that this was a live building site, the project was completed on a strict three-month schedule. During construction, step-free access was available via the café lift. 

An additional challenge was the removal of the existing MRL lift to make space for the new system. Stannah designed the new lift installation to match the dimensions of the existing lift shaft, thereby eliminating the need for additional structural work. Only cosmetic decoration was needed around the new landing doors. 

Balancing construction activities with the daily operations of the building required meticulous planning and coordination, showcasing Stannah’s commitment to creating a safe environment despite the challenges.

The solution

With support and guidance from Stannah, an MRL lift was selected due to it being one of the fastest and most efficient lift systems available, providing a reliable solution for students, teachers, and visitors.

The 8-person lift features modern controls with buttons set at heights accessible for wheelchair users. This 630kg capacity traction MRL lift is equipped with a gearless variable voltage drive, meeting EN81-20/50 standards. 

Requiring minimal space both inside and outside the shaft, this type of lift is ideal for most building applications. Its highly flexible design allows it to fit into existing lift shafts of any size, making it the perfect choice for this project. 

The result

Enhancing accessibility and efficient operation of the lift was an important factor at Abertay University’s cyberQuarter building. Now, the new, reliable lift supports the needs of the users by providing full step-free access.

The new MRL lift meets all open protocol and design requirements set by the client. The design complements the university’s aesthetic, whilst ensuring enhanced performance and reliability. The stainless-steel lift showcases a modern car interior, featuring artificial granite and user-friendly elements such as digital displays, enhancing accessibility for all users. The client chose options for the lift car interior from Stannah’s brochure, including selections for the walls, ceiling, flooring, and car operating panel. 

An open protocol lift system means that customers are not tied to Stannah for maintenance and repair. 

The cyberQuarter building, which can accommodate up to 500 people, will necessitate daily use of the new lift. It will provide step-free access for all users, including wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility.

All Stannah lifts are certified according to the Lifts Regulations 2016 (2016 No. 1093).

Customer feedback

Bob Cochran, Project Manager from Stannah said: “Enhancing accessibility and transforming lift operations were the primary goals of this project. Prioritising health and safety, along with effective communication, was crucial as we worked in a live environment. As a result, the lift replacement was a great success, with completion occurring just 12 weeks after starting on-site.”

Leigh Black, Estates Project and Design Manager for Abertay said: “We’re thrilled with the lift solution provided by Stannah. The new lift is a perfect fit for our cyberQuarter building providing a smooth and accessible experience for everyone. The installation process was seamless and it’s been great working with the Stannah team who used their lift expertise to overcome any challenges.”

www.stannahlifts.co.uk

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Bradford Grammar School Partners with NVC Lighting to Achieve Major Energy Savings

Bradford Grammar School (BGS), a high-performing independent grammar school, has partnered with NVC Lighting, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of high-quality and cost-effective commercial LED lighting solutions, to transform its estate and achieve savings of over £65,000 annually on energy costs.

The school has been working closely with NVC Lighting on a major lighting upgrade, replacing its outdated and inefficient fluorescent and incandescent lighting with high performance LED solutions. 

This extensive project involved installing commercial LED lighting throughout the school, from the historic Price Hall to a range of traditional and modern classrooms, cutting-edge sports facilities, and the theatre. The upgrade has also encompassed all corridors, stairwells, kitchens, workshops, laboratories, and outdoor areas such as pathways and car parks.

NVC Lighting additionally provided all the emergency lighting required, all fully integrated into the school’s building management system.

Ian Clint, Head of Estates at BGS, said:

“This project has been a great success and one I’m extremely proud of. By working closely with NVC Lighting’s expert team, site surveys and assessments demonstrated the significant benefits of the scheme, addressing rising energy costs and the opportunity to reduce our carbon footprint, while also enhancing the learning environment to improve student performance and well-being. 

“It was a no brainer; I recommended the project, and it was approved by the senior management team and governors.”

The result for BGS has been outstanding.  With NVC Lighting’s high-quality solutions installed, integrated with smart lighting control technology, the school has made a 34% saving in its energy costs, over £5,500 per month.

“The buildings at BGS are architecturally stunning, and the entire school community is extremely proud of them,” Ian continued. 

“We now have a lighting scheme across the estate that exceeds the standards of a high-performing educational facility. I’d like to thank NVC Lighting for their exceptional support. They’ve gone above and beyond—not only providing superior, cost-effective lighting solutions, but also excelling in product availability, delivery times, and customer service throughout the project.”

As a leader in the education sector for LED lighting, NVC Lighting offers schools and colleges a complete end-to-end service, from site surveys and assessments, right through to technical support and design services.  The company’s LED lighting solutions are high quality, easy to install and maintain, and can be integrated with smart lighting control technology to maximise energy savings and positively impact student and staff performance.  

Allister Szczepanski, Regional Sales Manager for NVC Lighting, commented: “BGS is such a prestigious school, so we were delighted to have been specified for this project.

“We have worked in partnership with Ian and his team throughout the whole process, developing a fantastic relationship to deliver a lighting upgrade scheme that adds real value to the school.”

As part of the scheme, a range of products from NVC Lighting’s extensive range of commercial LED lighting solutions were installed, including the company’s popular YALE PRO (surface and suspended lighting solution), along with STERLING PRO (ENEC approved LED panels), DENALI (IK10 and IP65 rated circular bulkhead for amenity spaces), WESTMINSTER (IP54 rated low glare downlight) and WASHINGTON (IP54 rated wide beam recessed downlight).

YALE PRO is a robust luminaire and benefits from UGR<19 low glare, which is particularly useful in schools, colleges, classrooms and office environments, where better glare control is required.  Complete with IP40 and IK10 ratings, YALE PRO is ideal for use in corridors, circulation areas and communal spaces including areas of leisure and increased physical activity.  Available in three sizes (4ft, 5ft & 6ft) YALE PRO is power selectable allowing a choice of 4 different outputs that can be selected during installation.

Every product in NVC Lighting’s PRO range is L80, 100,000 hours rated and comes complete with a comprehensive 7-year warranty that not only applies to all fittings, but also to emergency batteries. 

“There are so many benefits of installing high-quality LED lighting systems in schools, particularly when it comes to the learning environment and improving academic performance,” continued Allister.

“Another key driver is the energy efficiency of LED lights, consuming significantly less electricity compared to traditional incandescent or fluorescent fittings.  LED solutions also offer a longer lifespan, further reducing ongoing maintenance and replacement costs.”

NVC Lighting understands that the educational sector is a demanding environment, with so many different room types that all have their own lighting needs and requirements.

For those responsible for the specification of lighting within the education industry, the company’s ‘Lighting in Education’ guide provides information and support on everything a specifier will need to know.  From compliance and the best solutions for inside a facility, to outdoor spaces and the importance of emergency lighting.

For more information on NVC Lighting’s extensive range of solutions, visit www.nvcuk.com.

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Mapei eco-solution for floors at Bassaleg’s new teaching block

Titan Flooring has completed a resilient floor installation, at Bassaleg School, using an EMICODE: EC1 Plus certified Mapei system.  The installation, throughout the school’s new teaching block, featured Tarkett vinyl and linoleum floors, and carpet tiles.  It was completed for main contractor, Willmott Dixon who worked with Newport City Council to deliver the new three-storey extension.

Designed by Architects, Powell Dobson, Bassaleg School’s new teaching block creates more than 400 additional school places for the secondary school, with facilities including dining and assembly areas, whole school learning resource centres and key clusters of specialist subject classrooms.  It also replaces a number of outdated demountable classrooms and classroom blocks. The building features a wide range of energy efficient methodologies, including an enhanced building envelope to maximise air tightness and photovoltaic (PV) solar panels harnessing renewable energy. 

The Titan Flooring installation included solutions from Tarkett including: Ruby Acoustic 70, Safetred Universal R10, R11 and R12, Topaz Wood, Linoleum Veneto XF², Linoleum Veneto Silencio 19dB XF², Linoleum XF² SD (Static Dissipative), Primo Safe.T and Desso Essence.

The Mapei system was used to prepare subfloors and install flooring throughout the main hall, classrooms and corridors, stairs, drama rooms, kitchen, food tech and science labs, IT areas, WC’s, stores and stairs.   The specification reflected the project’s eco-credentials, with all products featuring EMICODE: EC1 Plus formulations, with very low VOC’s.  They included Latexplan Trade – a protein-free, low odour levelling and smoothing compound with high compressive strength – which was used to prepare the subfloors.  Surfaces were then primed with Mapeproof Primer – a one component, rapid drying ready-to-use waterproof surface membrane and Mapeproof One Coat damp proof membrane.  Flooring was then installed using Ultrabond Eco VS90 Plus – a hard set, highly shear resistant, wet-bed dispersion adhesive and carpet tiles were installed with Ultrabond Eco Tack TX+ solvent-free, non-staining acrylic-adhesive tackifier in water dispersion. 

For more information about the project and specification, please contact: info@mapei.co.uk or visit www.mapei.co.uk

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Flush with Success

Millions of litres of water are wasted daily in the UK from leaking toilets and uncontrolled urinals. Richard Braid, Managing Director of Cistermiser explains how direct flush systems help schools cut costs and boost sustainability by tackling high water use.

Every day, millions of litres of water are wasted in the UK, much of it from uncontrolled urinals and leaking toilets. Data from Thames Water shows that around 23 per cent of water delivered to non-domestic properties is classified as “continuous flow” – a sign of leaks or poorly controlled systems. A single leaking toilet can waste an average of 400 litres a day, costing hundreds of pounds and needlessly depleting one of our most vital resources. For schools, where water usage is high and budgets are stretched, this represents an urgent problem yet offers an opportunity to save both water and money. 

As water scarcity intensifies and the UK faces an additional daily demand of five billion litres by 2050, DEFRA has set some achievable water-saving targets in the commercial built environment: a 37 per cent reduction in water leakage by 2038 and 50 per cent by 2050. While these targets focus on commercial properties, schools have their own  role to play in improving water efficiency. Switching to a direct flushing system is just one simple yet highly effective solution, helping schools become both more sustainable while achieving immediate financial benefits.

What is direct flushing?

Direct flushing systems eliminate the need for traditional cisterns by connecting directly to the mains water supply. Instead of relying on a cistern to refill between flushes, these systems use the pressure of the water supply to deliver successive and effective flushes. 

Cistermiser’s urinal and toilet solutions are designed to maximise water efficiency and hygiene while minimising maintenance demands. Per toilet, the Easyflush Direct system addresses common issues like leaks from cisterns, which Thames Water estimates can waste the equivalent of five full bathtubs a day. This mains-fed system removes cisterns entirely, reducing maintenance and providing a hygienic flush powered by dynamic water pressure. Users can choose between two modes: ‘wave,’ which triggers flushing with a hand gesture, or ‘walkaway,’ which activates automatically when the user leaves. The system also features a dual flush option, optimising water use based on the duration of occupancy. 

Cistermiser’s Direct Flush system flushes individual urinals after use, using as little as 0.5 litres of water per flush. Activated by a PIR sensor, it eliminates the need for traditional auto-flush cisterns, which waste water by flushing all urinals intermittently and irrespective of use. The Direct Flush system has configurable settings for flush timing, sensing distance and flush duration which ensures only the minimum amount of water is used. If the urinal is not used for 12 hours, the Direct Flush automatically runs a hygiene flush to prevent odours and uric acid build-up in the pipework.

For schools, direct flushing has several advantages. Maintenance for instance, becomes significantly easier. Leaking cisterns, particularly those concealed behind panels, are often difficult to repair, leading to prolonged periods of wasted water. You may not even notice a leaky toilet as it could just be a constant trickle down the back of the pan – but even this can waste around 200 litres a day. Direct flush systems remove this risk, reducing the likelihood of leaks and ensuring toilets work effectively even during busy periods.

In addition to preventing leaks, direct flushing systems offer considerable water savings. According to Thames Water, sensor controls on urinals can save 80% compared with uncontrolled flushing; a single urinal fitted with Cistermiser’s Direct Flush system for example, can save up to 182m³ (182,000l) of water annually, equating to a cost saving of £557 and a reduction in CO₂ emissions by 0.06 tonnes per toilet. For a school with multiple facilities, these savings can quickly multiply, making a noticeable impact on budgets and sustainability goals. 

Hygiene is another acute consideration for schools and direct flushing systems excel here too. Traditional cisterns can become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria like Legionella, particularly when left unused for extended periods, such as during school holidays, posing a health risk to staff and pupils. Direct flushing systems eliminate this risk by avoiding standing water altogether. 

Direct flushing systems are built with versatility in mind. Their dynamic pressure ensures an immediate flush and as there is no cistern to be refilled, successive flushes can be immediately activated. Cistermiser’s Easyflush Direct also has an automatic hygiene flush function that keeps the bowl clean to ensure optimal hygiene, reducing unpleasant odours and the need for frequent manual cleaning. In ‘walkaway’ mode, the system automatically flushes as the user walks away, eliminating the age-old problem of some users forgetting to flush! It also automatically utilises a dual flush mechanism, providing a partial flush if the user departs within 45 seconds and a full flush if the stay is longer.

Switching to direct flush technology offers significant advantages for school facilities managers. As water scarcity becomes an ever more pressing issue, schools that invest in water-saving technologies now will not only help ease pressure on the national water supply but also position themselves as leaders in sustainability. 

There are vast financial benefits to be made too. With budgets often stretched, the cost savings associated with reduced water wastage and minimal maintenance demands make a significant difference. For schools looking to invest in long-term, reliable and efficient solutions, direct flush systems provide a clear return on investment. The savings made by installing the Cistermiser Direct Flush Discreet for example, means the system pays for itself in just eight months. 

DEFRA’s achievable water-saving targets may currently focus on commercial properties, but schools that adopt similar strategies stand to also reap the rewards. By electing a direct flushing system, schools can future-proof their facilities, meet their environmental obligations and unlock immediate financial savings. In doing so, they ensure that every drop of water, and every pound spent, goes much further.

For more information on Cistermiser visit www.cistermiser.co.uk 

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