COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

QUESTION NO. 3

QUESTION: Councillor E. Tuffy

"To ask the Manager for a Report on the recent works carried out to upgrade Lucan Sports and Leisure Centre?"

REPLY:

Lucan Leisure Centre was built over thirty-two years ago. Very little change has been made to the fabric and systems of the building since it's initial opening. For many years there have been problems with the comfort levels and energy efficiency of the facility, highlighted particularly during the winter period. The building's insulation, lighting and heating systems are well below current standards. By upgrading the insulation, lighting and heating system of the building, the centre would be in a position to attract more visits from the local community and to provide a more comfortable environment for the existing members, staff and local groups who use the facility, including local martial arts clubs, as well as basketball and soccer clubs.

By carrying out insulation, lighting and heating upgrades, the building would reduce it's energy consumption, reach higher efficiency standards and attain a higher energy rating. Operating costs would be reduced, improved environmental conditions will attract more bookings and increase the income stream and annual economic viability of the centre.

In addition to the fabric, lighting and heating upgrade, it is proposed to re-organise some of the internal layout to provide an accessible toilet, staff welfare facilities, improvements to the Naionra, (childcare facility) increasing its numbers and capacity and a large community room on the first floor, which will be used by local groups for classes and meetings and bring in new and increased numbers of users and fees. These new works will also ensure that the facility complies with accessibility and fire regulations.

The scope of works generally comprises of the following:-

* The installation of new high-level insulated suspended ceiling systems in the main sports hall and both gym rooms at first-floor level;

* The installation of full fill pumped cavity insulation to all external walls;

* The installation of external insulation to the existing R.C. frame of the Leisure Centre;

* Replacement windows where required for fire regulation and common standard;

* Internal alterations to provide an accessible toilet, staff welfare facilities, improvements to the Naionra and a large gym room on the first floor;

* The installation of ramped access to the main entrance;

* The installation of a new external escape stairway;

* The upgrading of the electrical and mechanical systems in the facility;

* The decommissioning of the oil-fired boiler and oil storage tank;

* The installation of a gas-fired boiler, meter and mains gas supply from the main Esker Road;

* The installation of fire stopping where required.

It has been calculated that the upgrade works will save 109,691kwh of energy, estimated at €16,000 per year in operating costs and will raise the BER rating of the facility from a BER of C2 to a BER of B2. 

The Council has been successful in securing a grant from SEAI towards the insulation, electrical upgrade and boiler replacement works. The works cost a total of €224,319.73 including V.A.T. The works are practically completed and the Centre will be open once again very shortly.