Two years after its opening, the University's sports centre is in the top 1% of most energy-efficient facilities in the UK
The University of Portsmouth’s Ravelin Sports Centre has set new standards for sustainability and energy performance, placing it in the top 1% of most energy-efficient facilities in the UK.
Since its opening in October 2022, the facility has dramatically exceeded its original sustainability goals, reducing energy consumption by an impressive 90% compared to typical leisure centres. This recognition is based on official data from an environmental performance monitoring report by Max Fordham LLP, a prominent engineering and sustainability consulting firm.
Several key features have contributed to the centre’s sustainable design, which has achieved an 'Outstanding' BREEAM rating. These include a compact building structure that reduces heat loss, solar panels that generate renewable energy, and air source heat pumps. Advanced systems recover waste heat from cooling and pool water, ensuring efficient temperature control throughout the year. The facility also recycles pool water for toilet flushing and uses natural ventilation methods to lower cooling demands in the summer.
When we first set out to create a highly sustainable facility, we could not have imagined achieving such remarkable energy efficiency levels. This report provides fascinating insights into our energy consumption and building performance, showcasing the incredible work of our multidisciplinary design team. We have not only reached our goals but smashed them, and are now the sector benchmark for best practice.
The centre's commitment to sustainability has been recognised with numerous prestigious awards, including:
- Portsmouth Society Blue Plaque Award for Design
- 2024 CIBSE Project of the Year
- 2024 Architects’ Journal Leisure Project Winner
- 2024 RIBA South Awards Shortlisted
- 2024 Civic Trust Awards Highly Commended
- 2023 International Association for Sport & Leisure Facilities (IAKS) Winner
Sustainability efforts extend beyond the centre’s innovative building design to the surrounding landscape. An urban orchard and a wildflower amphitheatre events space complement existing trees in the area. Bat and bird boxes enhance local biodiversity, while the centre's green roof system supports local wildlife.
A Community Hub
In addition to its sustainability achievements, the sports centre has become a vital community hub. With over 925,000 visitors this year alone, it offers a wide range of facilities, including an 8-lane swimming pool, a fully equipped fitness suite, climbing walls, and multi-purpose sports halls. The centre also engages with local schools and organisations through various initiatives such as free swimming sessions to primary schools and supports over 1,300 children in formal swimming lessons weekly.
Ravelin currently has over 11,000 members, with 8,500 of those being students from the University. Feedback from users of the centre has been overwhelmingly positive; a recent survey revealed that 91% of students believe the centre positively impacts their university experience. The centre's Net Promoter Score (NPS) stands at an impressive 72, which is significantly higher than the sector benchmark.
The Ravelin Sports Centre is part of the University’s £250 million Estate Masterplan, which aims to enhance campus facilities while prioritising sustainability and community engagement. A range of membership options are on offer including discounted memberships for students and local residents, encouraging community involvement and promoting healthy lifestyles. You can find out more about the options available on the sport.port.ac.uk website.
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