HiVE Centre, Coleg Gwent - Project Update

In September 2023, CMB started work on the Mechanical & Electrical contract for HiVE – a new multi-million High Value Engineering educational facility being undertaken by ISG on the site of the former Monwel Hankinson factory in Ebbw Vale.

However, with news of ISG’s administration in September of last year, followed by several months of uncertainty surrounding the future of the project, CMB stepped in as Principal Contractor to see through the project to the end. This ensured the continuation of the contracts for 173 staff, 39 subcontractors, as well as additional funders and stakeholders, all involved across the scope of the project.

The initial works included the installation of four air source heat pumps and primary plant, with heat distributed via underfloor heating, radiators, and electric warm air curtains, all zoned for control and efficiency. A dedicated domestic hot water calorifier was also integrated. Ventilation was provided through a combination of natural means, including actuated windows with CO₂ and temperature sensors, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery units in key areas. All systems were fully integrated with the BEMS/BMS via a Tridium platform, managing heating, ventilation, water systems, and energy metering.

Highadmit Projects were engaged to carry out the full electrical installation, which included a new 420 kVA supply from Western Power Distribution, LV panelboards, distribution boards, structured cable containment systems, internal and external lighting with automated controls, provision of standard and specialist small power, and dedicated electric vehicle charging infrastructure. A rooftop photovoltaic system was also installed to support on-site renewable energy generation. The electrical scope further encompassed fully integrated life safety and security systems, including fire alarms, smoke and fire damper wiring, disabled toilet alarms, emergency voice communication, intruder alarms, CCTV, and access control.

As we come to the final stages of this project, we’re delighted to have made great progress and look forward to sharing the finished product with you on completion in the near future.