ISG Jackson commences work on the new Enterprise Lodge in Perivale
(26/08/2010)

The new Enterprise Lodge in Perivale, West London, replaces an existing facility on site, providing a modern, purpose built support centre for children and adults with learning disabilities in the borough. ISG Jackson has commenced work on the £1 million project for Ealing Mencap.

The demolition of the former Lodge on Stockdove Way has already been completed and the contractor is now commencing the construction of the new building, which is approximately 50 per cent larger than the previous centre. The new Enterprise Lodge has a highly sustainable design, which reduces the building’s impact on the surrounding environment and also minimises overall running costs.

In addition to boasting an efficient air source heat pump, which powers the under floor heating system, a number of roof lights and sun pipes maximise the amount of sunlight entering the building. A green sedum roof not only provides a microhabitat for plants and insects, but also absorbs CO2 and helps reduce the volume and speed of rainwater entering into the drainage system as surface run off.

Facilities within the new lodge building have been specially designed for children and adults with disabilities, and the single-storey structure features a spacious reception area leading into a large open plan, multi-use hall. Enterprise Lodge will also include a quiet room and a craft room as well as a number of administrative offices and storage areas, with a covered area at the rear of the building providing additional useable space. ISG Jackson will form a new car parking area and carry out a range of hard and soft landscaping finishes, with the project scheduled for completion at the end of the year.

The garden will also form an important area providing space for play and recreation and for older people and wheelchair users to enjoy the outdoor environment. Mencap is taking advice from graduate students at Kew Gardens about creating a real sensory experience within the garden area.

Ian Gifford, director of ISG Jackson’s Public division, commented: "The commencement of work on site represents the culmination of an extremely impressive fundraising campaign by Ealing Mencap to improve facilities for local children and adults with learning difficulties. The project is a true community endeavour and ISG Jackson is delighted to be playing a part in bringing to reality the charity’s aspirations for a modern, purpose-built facility.”

The Duchess of Wessex is national patron of Mencap and the charity is hoping to organise a royal opening in the summer of 2011.