Castle and Coasts

Nestled in the heart of Keswick, Southey Road presented a unique challenge for Castles & Coasts Housing Association and the contractors at DLP. The project aimed to improve the energy efficiency and sustainability of this domestic property while maintaining the aesthetic harmony required in the picturesque town centre, situated in close proximity to the Lake District National Park. The original roof was covered with concrete plain tiles, and the local planning office mandated that the replacement materials blend seamlessly with the surrounding area.

Beyond the aesthetic challenge, site access was also a major hurdle. With limited parking available due to the town centre’s popularity with tourists, the DLP team had to begin their workdays early to secure parking for both themselves and the necessary material deliveries. Complicating matters further, tenants remained in the properties throughout the renovation, requiring careful logistical coordination and communication to minimize disruption and maintain a smooth workflow. The work was carried out through the harsh winter months from September to February, with unpredictable weather adding further complexity.

To overcome these challenges, DLP employed wienerberger In-roof solar' system in conjunction with Sandtoft’s UK Plain Tiles, ensuring that the new roof would not only blend with the surrounding area but also contribute to the sustainability goals of the project. The decision to use these materials was informed by a strong collaboration between the contractor, the client, and the manufacturer—with DLP having previously completed specialised training on installing the wienerberger in-roof solar system.

The scope of the project grew beyond simple roof replacement as further opportunities for improvement were identified. Full rigid insulation was installed in dormer voids, enhancing thermal performance, while UPVC double-glazed windows were installed to boost energy efficiency. DLP also extracted and replaced cavity wall insulation (CWI) and installed an Enke Insulated Roofing system on dormer and rear flat roofs, all of which contributed to meeting or exceeding required U-values and improving thermal retention throughout the property.

The project's sustainability practices extended beyond just products and materials. Waste management was a priority, with all waste generated during the project being responsibly recycled. Additionally, DLP utilized mobile welfare units for their staff, reducing the environmental impact of site operations. These sustainability measures aligned perfectly with Castles & Coasts Housing Association's vision for an improved and efficient property while showcasing a modern approach to social housing upgrades.

Despite the numerous logistical and environmental challenges, DLP successfully completed the project to the client’s satisfaction. Warren Morgan, DLP Associate Operations Director for Cumbria, noted, "The project went well considering the various elements needed to be coordinated to achieve completion. The customers and client were really happy with the end product, and the customers especially commented on the fact that their properties were warmer and that they needed to use their central heating less, plus the addition of the solar energy being fed back to their consumer units to use during the day."

Thanks to the combination of solar technology, upgraded insulation, and quality double-glazing, the property achieved a C Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating—a significant improvement for older housing stock. The solar panels installed on the roof generate clean energy that feeds directly back to the tenants' on-grid electrical systems during peak daylight hours, reducing reliance on conventional grid electricity and ultimately leading to reduced energy bills for residents. The tenants experienced firsthand the benefits of the renovations, with warmer homes and reduced energy consumption being notable highlights.

The success of the project hinged on strong collaboration between all parties involved—Castles & Coasts Housing Association, DLP, and wienerberger. This close partnership allowed for streamlined processes, with no need for external architectural services, which in turn helped expedite the project. What started as a simple roof replacement evolved into a full-scale energy efficiency upgrade, capitalizing on every opportunity for sustainability.

The aesthetic outcome was also an important consideration, as the properties had to conform to Keswick's planning requirements. By using our Plain Tiles along with the in-roof solar panels, the finished project seamlessly blended into the surrounding landscape, ensuring that the modern upgrades did not detract from the traditional character of the area. The work, overseen by the local planning office, was completed with careful attention to preserving Keswick's charm while providing significant upgrades to the housing stock.

This project serves as a model for what can be achieved when contractors, clients, and manufacturers come together with a shared vision of sustainability and tenant welfare. The combination of modern solar technology, comprehensive insulation, and efficient double glazing, all within a carefully managed logistical framework, shows that energy-efficient retrofitting can be done effectively, even in challenging environments like Keswick's town center.

The Castle and Coast National Park project demonstrates that sustainable housing is not just an aspiration—it is a reality that can be achieved today, bringing tangible benefits to both tenants and the environment. With careful planning, collaboration, and the right choice of materials, DLP has delivered a project that will keep residents warmer, reduce their energy bills, and contribute to a cleaner future—all while preserving the heritage aesthetics of the Keswick area.