CUSTOMER:
Port of Dover
PROJECT:
Heating System Upgrade Lord Worden House

Lord Warden House Heating System Upgrade at the Port of Dover

The Port of Dover, the busiest international ferry port in Europe, serves as the UK’s primary gateway to the continent. This port, responsible for handling £144bn worth of goods annually and accommodating millions of passengers and vehicles, is the living embodiment of the importance of trade and transport.

The Challenge

Tasked with modernising the heating facilities of Lord Warden House at the Port of Dover, we sought to design and implement a cutting-edge system to replace aging infrastructure. The project commenced on the 4th of September 2023, with successful completion on the 27th of October 2023. Our objective was to not only upgrade the boilers but do so in a manner that would enhance the port’s energic efficiency and reliability without disrupting its critical 24/7 operations.

The Solution

The undertaking commenced with precise planning, involving the strategic isolation and drainage of the existing system. Our team navigated the complexities of removing outdated boilers and pipework, preparing the site for the installation of the latest heating technology. We constructed new foundations to accommodate modern mechanical equipment effectively.

In ensuring seamless integration, we fitted state-of-the-art plate heat exchangers—devices that optimise thermal management while safeguarding the newly installed boilers from potential damages associated with legacy systems.

Our rigorously planned mechanical isolations were coordinated in close collaboration with the Port of Dover stakeholders, ensuring no interruption to ongoing business activities. The reactivation process involved meticulous de-airing of an antique radiator system, demanding precision and patience.

Noise minimisation and strategic scheduling of deliveries during quieter periods exemplified our commitment to maintaining operational harmony throughout the project’s span.

Recommendations

In recognition of the defunct nature of facilities on the third floor, we proposed a permanent disconnection of heating services to this area. This strategy aligns with the Port of Dover’s objectives towards energy conservation. Additionally, we identified and acted upon missing lagging across the system, fortifying it against unnecessary energy wastage—thereby enhancing the port’s sustainable practices.

The Outcome

  • Enhanced energy efficiency, leading to a significant reduction in operational costs.
  • Marked improvement in the environmental footprint of the Lord Worden House, aligning with global sustainability goals.
  • Elevated workplace comfort and safety, through state-of-the-art heating and insulation upgrades.
  • Strengthened reputation of the Port of Dover as a leader in innovative and sustainable infrastructure solutions.
  • Fostered partnerships and collaborations, setting benchmarks for future projects within and beyond the industry.
  • Pioneered a template for integrating historical preservation with modern technological advancements.