Tameside College, Ashton-under-Lyne

ITP supplied our VCL 250 vapour control layer as a protective solution underneath a stunning façade design at the Advanced Technologies Centre (ATC), Tameside College’s £10.5 million learning facility in Greater Manchester.

Located within the Beaufort Road campus, the ACT is central to the college’s plan to develop courses in science, technology, engineering and maths that inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists. The building accommodates a range of specialisms including electronics, engineering, science, hydraulics, computer coding, medical and forensic laboratories.

The ACT features a customised architectural facade solution with aluminium panels featuring a unique pattern of differently-sized circular perforations designed, supplied and installed by Levolux. Supplied for the project via the Encon in Chorley, ITP’s VCL 250 forms part of the external wall system below the bespoke façade. With a mono-filament reinforcement scrim for tensile strength, its polyethylene-based membrane ensures that the building envelope is properly sealed to control ventilation, prevent heat loss and protect insulates from interstitial condensation.

ITP Account Manager, Caroline Collins, said: “The ATC has been widely praised for the creativity of its design, most notably the beautiful façade which is the building’s signature feature. ITP are proud to see our vapour control layer form part of the external wall system, providing long-term protection to ensure that this outstanding facility remains in excellent condition.”

Jackie Moores, Principal at Tameside College, said: “As the demand for advanced skills in science, technology, engineering and maths continues to grow, Tameside College will be at the forefront to develop talent for the sector.”

VCL 250 is one of a wide range of protective membranes manufactured and supplied by ITP. The company also offers roofing underlays, house wraps, UV-resistant façade membranes, gas and hydrocarbon barrier membranes, and breather membranes, including solutions which meet Euroclass A2-s1, d0 and B,s1-d0 fire safety ratings for full compliance with building regulations.