Chi Aberfala (Falmouth Service Hub)

Project

Chi Aberfala (Falmouth Service Hub)

Location

Falmouth, Cornwall

Client

Cornwall Council

Contract

£3.23m

Duration

79 weeks

Project Description

This sensitive heritage refurbishment transformed the Grade II listed former Adult Education Centre in Falmouth into a vibrant community anchor. Now named Chi Aberfala, or the Falmouth Service Hub, the beautifully remodelled building serves as a single, integrated services hub for Cornwall Council, bringing together Adult Education and Day Services, a dedicated Family Hub, and vital community resources. Originally constructed in 1915 as the Falmouth Boys Grammar School, the historic landmark required an approach that balanced respect for its architectural past with environmental responsibility. Supported by funding from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, the project successfully blended heritage preservation with modern thermal and mechanical upgrades to improve the building’s energy efficiency.

Honouring the character of a century-old structure demands exceptional craftsmanship and a connection to local heritage. Working in close collaboration with the Heritage Conservation Officer, every historic feature was catalogued, protected, and monitored throughout the transformation. To restore the internal fabric, specialised craftspeople applied traditional lime plastering using authentic, locally sourced materials from the Cornish Lime Company. The building’s envelope was structurally renewed through the repair and replacement of the existing flat roof, accompanied by the installation of modern roof insulation to combat coastal elements. Timber elements were protected, and the interior spaces were revitalised with new ceilings, high-quality flooring, a complete redecoration, and the installation of contemporary WCs and kitchen facilities.

The team completely replaced the aging heating distribution system, integrating sustainable Air Source Heat Pumps alongside secondary glazing to drastically reduce heat loss without altering the historic facade. Energy consumption is now intelligently managed by a state-of-the-art Building Energy Management System (BEMS), complemented by the installation of high-efficiency LED lighting throughout. Extensive external utilities work delivered new electric and water mains to support the building’s increased capacity. This infrastructure extended outdoors with the installation of multiple Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers, a brand-new steel-frame entrance featuring an accessible ramp with anti-slip composite decking, and a new external children’s play area.

Delivering a multi-phase refurbishment on a complex public site required rigorous logistical management and empathy for the building’s users. While the main Tregenver House was vacant during construction, adjacent facilities—including Building 5—and the crucial first-floor server room remained fully operational. To guarantee zero disruption to Cornwall Council’s live digital services, power shutdowns were meticulously co-ordinated with specialised mechanical and electrical partners. Navigating the shared access routes required a strict Traffic Management Plan and robust site segregation measures. As the site remained a hub for vulnerable service users, every subcontractor and visitor underwent a tailored induction emphasising the sensitive environment, bound by a strict code of conduct. Clear, proactive communication with the estate team ensured noisy works were scheduled around critical community timetables.

The new space creates a warm, accessible sanctuary where families can connect, learn, and thrive together.