CASE STUDY
Long-term M&E strategy cuts emissions and future proofs a Manchester office
SITE
1 Marsden Street
LOCATION
Manchester
SIZE
6300 m2
CONSULTANCY TYPE
M&E strategy + upgrades
Resero’s long-term partnership with Aberdeen has delivered real value at Marsden Street, cutting emissions, improving energy performance, and future proofing the building through strategic M&E upgrades.
Pamela Rarity
Senior Asset Manager at Aberdeen
THE TASK
In 2019, Aberdeen commissioned Resero to provide specialist technical asset management consultancy for a commercial office property in Manchester. At around 18 years old, the building was beginning to face the typical challenges that come with an asset aging, particularly around energy efficiency, system performance, and components of the mechanical and electrical (M&E) infrastructure nearing end-of-life.
Aberdeen sought to improve long-term asset performance, reduce operational risk, and future proof the property, as well as continue to ensure occupier wellness. Resero was tasked with creating and implementing a strategic plan to realise this potential.
OUR APPROACH
Building compliance monitoring
Years 1-2
Resero collaborated closely with the building team to implement a technical asset strategy focused on energy optimisation, system performance and making essential upgrades to aging M&E systems. Regular building performance audits monitored and managed ongoing compliance. Resero facilitated improved coordination between facilities management teams and M&E contractors, helping to align technical and operational activities in a constructive, collaborative way.
Preparation and commencement of the strategy
Years 3-4
In 2022, a comprehensive energy performance review highlighted clear opportunities to enhance the building’s efficiency, fulfil compliance obligations, and align the asset with the evolving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) priorities of the landlord and tenants.
Through the creation of Planned Maintenance Reports (PMRs), Resero successfully aligned financial planning alongside building lifecycle to create a robust expenditure plan best suited to the building’s operational requirements. An Alternative Planned Maintenance Report (APMR) was then prepared, which highlighted opportunities to progress the property toward net zero carbon objectives through a robust process of digital modelling of alternative technologies. These efforts led to substantial improvements in the building’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), elevating it from an 'E' to a 'C' rating.
Execution of the strategy and continued change
Years 5-6+
The long-term actions were centred on eliminating the building's reliance on natural gas, with a series of key system upgrades to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability. The heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems have been upgraded with more efficient, all-electric alternatives. A phased transition from fluorescent lighting to LED lighting is currently in progress, aiming to significantly decrease electricity usage and maximise user comfort. To support safety and regulatory compliance, preventative upgrades were also made to the fire safety systems. Together, these efforts contributed to establishing a clear pathway for the building to progress toward achieving a ‘B’ EPC rating.
OUTCOMES
Since Resero began its partnership with Aberdeen on this property in 2019, its involvement has delivered transformative results. By implementing strategic building upgrades and enhancing energy efficiency, Resero has assisted in enhancing tenant satisfaction while aligning the property with landlord and tenants’ ESG policies, as well as constantly improving technologies and workplace trends. These changes have not only met current market demands but have also created a more sustainable and positive environment for the building’s occupants. Resero’s commitment to long-term net zero carbon strategies ensures the building is well-prepared to adapt to future market shifts and technological advancements, safeguarding its viability and environmental resilience.
A key factor in Resero’s offerings is having consistent oversight of the strategies it develops. By maintaining continuity and quality management throughout the property’s evolution, Resero ensures that these complex, multi-year strategies remain effective, even as the building changes hands or faces new challenges. Looking ahead, Resero’s proactive approach to emerging technologies and industry trends ensures the property will remain competitive, compliant, and adaptable. This steadfast partnership not only resolved immediate challenges but also lays a clear path for sustained improvement and long-term success.
