Camden Council, Replacement Schemes, London

Arden windows were approached by a Main Contractor that was looking for a manufacturer and installer of high quality sliding sash windows to replace several hundred windows across various properties in on behalf of the Borough. The client’s key considerations were to ensure that their residents were provided with a thermally efficient high-performance window that would provide a better home whilst ensuring planning authorities and local conservation were content with the design and aesthetics of the replacement windows. 

Arden were invited to be involved with the project at a very early stage and were able to offer assistance with the submission of the planning applications, including discussions with conservation officers for the area. Ultimately Arden surveyed the properties, produced drawings to demonstrate existing and proposed details for the replacement windows and achieved full planning consent. 

During the process, Arden representatives worked directly with the Conservation officers including providing sample windows and attending a number of meetings in an effort to ensure that the replacement double glazed windows were acceptable to all parties. One of the key issues encountered was the initial reluctance of the Conservation Officer to allow the single glazed windows to be replaced by double glazed units using a bonded spacer bar as opposed to a more traditional solid glazing bar. 

As the client was keen to ensure costs were kept to a minimum and thermal performance was improved, the preferable choice was to use Arden Window sliding sash window with a bonded bar and a “plant on” timber glazing bar. Once Arden had manufactured a full-size sample window this was shown to the Conservation officer and the benefits explained. Due to the traditional appearance of the Arden window, the planning applications were approved and the project was able to proceed. 

Early engagement with Arden was key to the successful outcome of the project. This ensured that the design and planning requirements of the client and conservation teams were realised. It also facilitated the planning of manufacture and installation, coordinating with the main contractor at a very early stage thus ensuring the project was delivered and completed on time and within agreed budgets.