College Road
Location: London
Sector: Residential Property
Project Overview
College Road was a major high rise residential development delivering 817 co living homes alongside 120 affordable apartments across two towers of 50 and 35 storeys. VIP was brought in to undertake the thermal expansion design for the LTHW and ASHP risers, where building height introduced significant technical challenges around movement and load management.
Our Approach
VIP worked closely with the project team from an early stage, providing a full expansion design service backed by PI insurance. Our engineers assessed the vertical riser layouts in detail, calculating thermal movement and the resulting forces to ensure the system could operate safely over the full height of both towers. Particular focus was placed on anchor point strategy at low level, where loads were highest. Clear communication and responsive technical support helped the design team understand the rationale behind each solution and allowed decisions to be made confidently.
Execution
Following the completed design, VIP supplied a coordinated package including pump bellows, high pressure valve sets and expansion components suited to the demanding riser conditions. Anchor loads at the base of each riser were carefully managed through bespoke detailing and product selection, ensuring compatibility with the overall mechanical design. Throughout delivery, VIP maintained close contact with the contractor, answering queries quickly and adjusting details where required to suit installation realities on site.
The Outcome
The finished system successfully accommodated thermal movement across both towers without compromising performance or safety. Challenging anchor loads were resolved through considered design and robust product selection, giving the project team confidence in the long term operation of the heating systems. The project demonstrated VIP’s depth of technical knowledge, hands on support and ability to add real value on complex high rise residential schemes.
