SHDF Wave 2 Thanet: Revitalising highrise living through sustainable retrofit

May 21, 2000

Mears has been awarded the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2 contract, in partnership with Thanet District Council, for the retrofit of five high-rise buildings in Thanet, with a contract value of £42 million. The project,which spans 24 months, involves major improvements to Kennedy House, Trove Court, Staner Court, Harbour Towers, and Invicta House.

The retrofit programme focuses on improving energy efficiency, fire safety and living standards which includes:

Balcony and window replacements: We are upgrading balcony doors, windows, and communal windows to enhance insulation and safety
Storage heaters and ventilation improvements: Outdated storage heaters are being replaced with more efficient systems,
and ventilation upgrades will ensure better air quality throughout the buildings
External cladding remediation: The existing cladding is being stripped and replaced to meet current safety standards, funded through the Building Safety Grant
Fire safety enhancements: We are replacing communal fire doors, flat front doors, and main entrance doors, alongside improving fire-stopping measures across the buildings
Balcony and communal area upgrades: Balcony upgrades and internal communal redecorations are being carried out to
improve the aesthetics and usability of these shared spaces

The retrofit work significantly improved both the safety and energy performance of the buildings.

As part of the project, we delivered:

Resident engagement: Monthly resident engagement events ensure that residents and the local community remains informed and involved, fostering a positive relationship throughout the works
Funding breakdown: The SHDF funding was allocated for windows, doors, and ventilation, while the Building Safety Grant supports the cladding remediation, ensuring the project meets the highest safety standards
High quality standards: The project has achieved a 43/45 CCS (Considerate Constructors Scheme) score for Kennedy House and Trove Court, reflecting our commitment to quality, safety, and environmental standards

Mears continues to demonstrate its commitment to social value, donating 25 winter warmer packs to RISE. The Thanet RISE Project is a partnership between Thanet District Council, Serveco, Forward Trust, Invicta Health Care and DWP, forming a multi-agency team to work with those who are rough sleeping and most in need of support.

“I wanted to take the time to compliment the work being done at Harbour Towers. The site team has been very professional and tidy. Despite the bad weather, they’ve made great progress, and the work is being carried out with minimal disruption to the area. I’m really impressed with how hard-working and efficient the team has been given the challenges of the tight building footprint.” A resident at Harbour Towers

For more information click here.