Park Farm Industrial Estate, Buntingford The scheme comprises a mixture of B1 and B2 units intended as "starter " or "incubator" accommodation for small businesses that are moving from the "kitchen table" to their first business premises. It is intended that the B1 accommodation be primarily suited to small knowledge-based activities, whilst the B2 accommodation is suited to the type of user already established on the adjacent part of the Estate. The scheme is informed by the clients concern that it is important to create structures and landscapes that are energy efficient, ecologically sustainable, and economic to run. This means that they consume little energy, and therefore cause little pollution, and in other ways have minimal environmental impact. Where possible materials and products specified are healthy, organic, durable, efficient, well designed, appropriate and where possible local. They emit no toxins and consume as little energy as possible, from extraction and manufacture to installation, useful life disposal and reuse. Some products are manufactured from recycled materials, and timber from a sustainable source is used. The outside walls are constructed of insulated timber frame overclad with rain screens of stained timber weather boarding and render. They are designed so that they can "breathe", ie controlled moisture movement through the structure is possible, resulting in a healthier atmosphere in the building. The main structure is of exposed laminated timber portal frames (Glulam).
						project phased construction of energy efficient business accommodation client foundation business centres