The first building of the first phase of works at Stockport College has recently been completed incorporating Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) into the design. Austin Smith Lord, Scheme Architects together with Wates Construction approached McVeigh SIPs in the design phase to assist with value engineering, and SIPs were selected to replace the lightweight steel framing infill. In addition to significant cost savings, additional benefits of SIPs include:

• Modern Methods of Construction (MMC). Prefabricated Large Format SIPs factory engineered and assembled resulting in a higher degree of control with regards to quality and consistency.
• Off site fabrication reducing the amount of time spent on site and working at heights.
• Sustainable timber based product with high thermal efficiency and low air leakage.
• Very minimal movement due to the composite action of the SIPs.
• Random fix provided for the rainscreen finishes.
• Most window and door openings framed out with structural timber eliminating the need for the majority of secondary steel work.

Following the successful completion of the first building, McVeigh SIPs have secured the contract to complete the next couple of blocks at Stockport College.