Bicester Leisure Centre: Delivering a Comprehensive HVAC Upgrade

Bicester Leisure Centre

The Challenge: Enhancing Comfort and Efficiency at a Community Hub

Bicester Leisure Centre, a vital community asset, required critical upgrades to its heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Built in 1974 and last refurbished in 2009, the existing systems were nearing the end of their operational life, posing a risk to both energy efficiency and visitor comfort.

The project, overseen by Parkwood Project Management (PPM), was complex, involving major works in five air conditioning zones (Gym, Spin Studio, Offices, Reception, and Cafe), the refurbishment of two key air handling units (AHU1 and HR5), and the overhaul of extract fans and squash court heating systems. The primary constraint?

Minimising disruption. The majority of the work needed to be completed while the centre remained open to the public, demanding meticulous planning and strict adherence to safety protocols.

The Solution: A Full Turnkey Partnership

PPM commissioned a single Principal Contractor to deliver a full turnkey solution, covering all aspects of the design, installation, and commissioning. This approach ensured seamless integration and a single point of responsibility, including the critical Principal Designer and Principal Contractor duties under CDM (2015) regulations.

Key Deliverables:

Total AC Replacement: Out with the old, in with the new. We successfully removed and responsibly disposed of the existing, inefficient air conditioning systems and installed new, high-performance units across all five zones. All new equipment was interfaced with the existing Building Management System (BMS) for optimised control.
Air Handling Unit Refurbishment: Two major AHUs were serviced and upgraded. This involved replacing critical components like evaporator coils and drive belts, along with internal chamber cleaning, reconditioning, and repairs to thermal lagging to restore peak operational efficiency.
Targeted Fan Upgrades: Critical extract fans in the Spa, Changing Village, and Bowling Toilet areas were inspected, serviced, and, where necessary, replaced to ensure optimal air quality and ventilation throughout the facility.
Heating Restoration: The non-operational fan convector heating systems serving the squash courts were fully inspected and restored, ensuring a comfortable environment for all users.

The Outcome: Enhanced Performance, Guaranteed Quality

The project was completed on schedule (October 6th to October 31st, 2025) and successfully achieved the client’s core goal: a significant, comprehensive upgrade of their HVAC assets.

Results that Matter:

Optimised Comfort: All new systems met the detailed heating and cooling requirements for each zone, enhancing the experience for both staff and the public.
Long-Term Assurance: New equipment carries a minimum 7-year warranty, backed by a 12-month defect liability period on all installation works provided by the contractor.
Integrated Control: Full integration and an optimised control strategy were achieved with the existing BMS, ensuring efficient and intelligent operation.
Asset Protection: All external equipment was treated with Blygold anti-corrosion protection, guaranteeing durability and extending the lifespan of the new assets.

Through a balanced selection process focused equally on price and the quality of design/programme/Health & Safety, the Principal Contractor delivered a successful project that significantly enhances the operational effectiveness and comfort of Bicester Leisure Centre for years to come.