Extensive Retrofit Design & Coordination for 5 terraced bungalows in Wales

Project Overview

The Retreat is a PAS 2035 Pathway B, fabric-first retrofit across five 1970s terraced bungalows designed with accessibility in mind. We provided full coordination, design and statutory interface (planning & CDM).

How We Got Started

We began with a digital-first survey approach: LiDAR scanning and drone surveys to model roof geometries, access, and site constraints, supported by cavity wall assessments and borescope investigations. This informed a PAS 2035-compliant strategy tailored to the terrace configuration and construction, streamlining design coordination and reducing repeat site visits.

Challenges & Solutions

Asbestos management:

Early investigations identified asbestos-containing materials in soffit panels and T+G boards. We integrated licensed removal into the CDM 2015 health and safety plan and coordinated sequencing to avoid programme disruption.

Ecology and planning compliance:

An initial client commissioned bat survey did not meet planning requirements and works were paused after roofing commenced. We engaged an ecologist and advised suspension of activity pending a dusk emergence survey, mitigating legislative risk and preventing further delay.

Cavity condition and structural integrity:

Failed insulation and localised wall tie defects were addressed through cavity extraction, new cavity fill, and wall tie replacement as required, ensuring a sound substrate for EWI.

Integration and detailing:

Associated EWI (external wall insulation) works included roof extensions/overhangs, coordination of RWPs, SVPs, fixtures, fence/wall connections, and door undercuts to support balanced ventilation. Roof insulation was topped up, alongside positive input ventilation (PIV) & solar PVs.

Final Outcome & Results

The project has delivered significant improvements in comfort, running costs, and carbon, with positive client feedback on technical rigour and risk management, particularly around asbestos, ecology, and statutory compliance.

The Retreat demonstrates how coordinated, fabric-first retrofit, delivered under PAS 2035 with clear sequencing and evidence led design, can unlock substantial performance gains across small, accessible bungalow typologies.

The final result of The Retreat, showing refreshed and modernised dwellings across the site.