Rcpe Feasibility Study 04 14

Feasibility Report
for the Refurbishment of

Nos. 8-13 Queen Street
The Royal College of Physicians,

Edinburgh
April | 2014
Michael Laird Architects
Feasibility Study for Refurbishment of 8-13 Queen Street
The Royal College of Physicians Edinburgh
Contents Page
Introduction 2
1. Project Brief 4
2. Building Analysis 6
2.1 Historical Analysis &Building History 6
2.2 Planning Process 16
2.3 Building Use Analysis 20
Access/movement around the building
Levels
Disabled usage
Lavatory provision
Condition
Services
Structure
3. Feasibility Proposals 31
3.1 The New Atrium 33
3.2 Improved Disabled Access 40
3.3 New Conference Centre Reception 42
3.4 Refurbishment of Conference Centre 44
Auditorium
Auditorium Concourse
Catering facilities
Lavatories
Storage
AV Facilities
4. Cost Summary 54
5. Programme/Procurement Summary 54
Appendices 57
1. Services report
2. Structural Report
3. Roof condition Report
4. Acoustic Report
5. Cost Report
6. Survey Drawings
7. Accessibility Report
ORDNANCE SURVEY, EDINBURGH, 1853
Page | 1
INT RO DUC TI ON No. 8 Nos. 9-10 Nos. 11-12 No. 13
In January 2014, Michael Laird Architects (MLA) were appointed
to undertake a feasibility study into the refurbishment of The
Royal College of Physicians Edinburgh (RCPE) premises on Queen
Street in Edinburgh. This feasibility study was to look at the
following elements of the building;
• Providing compliant and attractive disabled access into
the buildings from the Queen Street
• Improving circulation around the building including
disabled access to public areas within buildings.
• Segregating circulation for users of the Conference
Centre from simultaneous users of the Great Hall and
Library so that wedding functions and conferences can
proceed independently.
• Refurbishment of Conference Centre including;
auditorium, milling area, lavatories, catering, reception
facilities and cloakrooms.
In undertaking this feasibility study MLA employed the services of

the following consultants:
• Thomas and Adamson Cost Consultants No. 13 Nos. 11-12 Nos. 9-10 No. 8
• RSP Services Consultant
• David Narro Associates Structural Engineers
• Sandy Brown Associates Acoustic Consultants
AERIAL VIEW OF NOS. 8-13 QUEEN STREET, HOME OF RCPE
Page | 2
This feasibility report is hopefully the first of many stages on

the project. MLA appreciate that RCPE are not an experienced
procurer of large building projects and for this reason have
advised that the following stages are followed:
1. Feasibility Report (by MLA)
2. Appointment of Project Manager (MLA will help RCPE
create the procurement information)
3. Appointment of Design Team. This will be led by Project
Manager
4. Outline Design Proposals
5. Detailed Design Proposals
6. Contractor Tenders
7. Construction
8. Handover.
The purpose of the feasibility report was to provide RCPE with

design ideas for the development of the project with costs and
programmes so that approval can be sought to take the project
to the next stage; appointment of the project manager. It was
also to test design ideas and reduce some of the risk from the
governance of the project. The two main risks were; costs and
planning approval on a Grade A listed building. For this reason this
report includes our successful negotiations with the personnel
dealing with historic buildings within the City of Edinburgh
Council Planning Department and Historic Scotland. It also has a
detailed breakdown of the costs for the various elements of work
proposed.
In order that MLA could finalise the design a survey of the existing
building was instructed. This has provided drawings of plans,
sections and elevations of all relevant elements of the building.
These will be invaluable as the project proceeds to the next stages.
Page | 3
1. 0 PROJE CT B RI E F
The outline project brief from RCPE can be summarised as follows:
1. Providing compliant and attractive disabled access into the buildings from
Queen Street.
2. Improving circulation around the building including disabled access to public
areas with buildings.
3. Segregating circulation for users of the Conference Centre from simultaneous
users of the Great Hall and Library so that wedding functions and conferences
can proceed independently.
4. Refurbishment of Conference Centre including; auditorium, milling area,
lavatories, catering, reception facilities and cloakrooms.
1.1 Providing compliant and attractive disabled access into the buildings from
Queen Street.
The existing building provides very poor and discriminatory access for the disabled.
This has been summarised in an independent accessibility report commission by RCPE.
A copy of this report is included within Appendix 7. The brief from RCPE is to provide
compliant, non discriminatory disabled access from Queen Street. Ideally this should
be through the same door that is used by all other users. Although one other aspect
of the brief is to allow for segregation of users of the conference hall from those using
the Great Hall and library, the brief only requires a single disabled access that will
service both areas of the building.
1.2 Improving circulation around the building including disabled access to

public areas with buildings.
The RCPE complex on Queen Street consists of four townhouses, the Conference
Centre and the Great Hall/ Library. As it was never designed to work as one building,
links between all buildings are quite complex and difficult to understand. The brief is
to analyse the existing situation and to develop proposals that make it much easier for
visitors to move around the buildings and to make as many of the public spaces in the
building accessible as possible. In doing so access for disabled staff will be improved
dramatically.
1.3 Segregating circulation for users of the Conference Centre from

simultaneous users of the Great Hall and Library so that
wedding functions and conferences can proceed independently.
At present there can be two distinct major functions that can operate in the building
at the same time; functions in the Great Hall and Library, eg Weddings or examinations
and conference centre users. At present both of these users must use the same
entrance; No.9 Queen Street. The brief is to segregate these uses by creating a new
entrance for conference centre users. This entrance must reflect the significance and
size of the conference centre and therefore must provide sufficient space for reception
and circulation as well as providing a ‘wow’ factor. Although the new entrance will
provide the required segregation there is still a need for some events to use the whole
building, eg the conference centre together with the Great Hall. This happens at the
minute and the design proposals should look to enhance this interconnection.
TOP: THERE IS NO DISABLED ACCESS TO THE QUEEN STREET ENTRANCES. ABOVE: CURRENT CIRCULATION IN THE BUILDINGS IS
ABOVE: THE ONLY COMPLIANT ACCESS IS FROM THISTLE STREET LANE, VIA THE CAR PARK. COMPLEX AND NON COMPLIANT.
Page | 4
1.4 Refurbishment of Conference Centre including;

auditorium, milling area, lavatories, catering, reception
facilities and cloakrooms.
The existing Queen Mother Conference Centre was built in the
1980s and has not been refurbished since that time. For this
reason it has now become outdated, tired and unwelcoming.
These descriptions apply to all aspects of the facility including the
auditorium, the concourse, lavatories and storage. The existing
catering facilities are not satisfactory and result in the single
kitchen being used by two different caters doing two different
functions. Access to the auditorium and concourse for equipment,
tables and chairs is from ground level on Thistle Street Lane. At
present this requires all equipment to be carried down stairs. This
has clear health and safety issues.
The brief is therefore to do the following:

Auditorium
Provide full refurbishment; seating, ceiling, carpets, wall finishes,
lighting, heating/cooling and AV facilities.
Concourse
Provide full refurbishment; ceiling, carpets, wall finishes, lighting
and heating/cooling.
Catering
Provide new reheat kitchen for use by Conference Centre. The new
concourse to be laid out so as to maximise catering opportunities
and flexibility.
Storage
Storage is required for tables, chairs etc. New storage facilities
can be rearranged ensuring that sufficient and easily accessible
storage is provided.
Lavatories
Ensure sufficient lavatories are provided to comply with Technical
Standards . Existing lavatories are in poor condition and should be
upgraded or replaced to reflect the refurbishment of the rest of
the Conference Centre.
In general, all aspects of the design should reflect good practice in

sustainable design, selection of materials and energy efficiency,
in particular the new heating and cooling systems.
TOP: THE CONFERENCE CENTRE CONCOURSE IS INEFFICIENT ABOVE: CONFERENCE CENTRE LAVATORY FACILITIES
ABOVE: THE CURRENT CONFERENCE CENTRE AUDITORIUM IS OUTDATED FOR MODERN USES. ARE UNWELCOMING
Page | 5
2 .0 B U IL D I N G A N A L YS I S
2. 1 H IS TOR I C A L A NA LY SI S
The RCPE is located from No 8 to No 13 Queen Street in Edinburgh
and is made up of 7 different buildings all with a different history.
The buildings are grouped into four groups as follows.
8 QU E E N S TREE T
This is a Grade A listed building Designed by Robert Adam and
built between 1770 -71. Built for Robert Orde, Chief Baron of
the Court of the Exchequer, this was one of the first houses to
be erected in Queen Street, which was built to take advantage
of the northern views available in Edinburgh’s New Town, one
of the most important and well preserved examples of urban
planning in Britain. It was then, and is still, one of the grandest
houses in Queen Street, as well as being the only symmetrical
one. This also makes it stand out from Adam’s terraced London
houses, which generally had the entrance displaced to one side.
Adam’s plan was reversed in execution.
The mansard roof itself appears to be original and merely
altered. The David Allan catalogue suggests that he may have
been responsible for the original roundels in the Drawing room
ceilings, the present cherubs are probably 19th century. The link
between the drawing rooms was enlarged with double doors
in the earlier 19th century, at which time the overdoors were
added. The plasterwork was carried out by Thomas Clayton Jnr,
but it has been suggested (by Gifford, McWilliam and Walker)
that the ceiling in the Large Drawing Room is not as fine quality
as its neighbour and so may be a replica, but this seems unlikely.
The same authors also suggest that the main stair balusters
may have been replaced.
The house was acquired by the Royal College of Physicians in
1864, who had bought and rebuilt the adjoining No 9 Queen
Street in 1844. It was immediately re-let to the Edinburgh
Institution, but in 1876 the College reclaimed the ground to the
rear to build their new library The College took full possession
of No 8 in 1957, making a direct link via the quadrant corridor
leading to its New Library; this enters through a former window
in the Gregory Room (1st floor SW). It has recently been restored
by Simpson and Brown with advice from Ian Gow and new
ceilings and chimneypieces by Dick Reid. The two new ceilings
were installed by Classical Plasterers of York, and the roundels,
of appropriate medically related mythological subjects, were
conceived and painted by William Kay on canvas. It is impossible
to know whether these ceilings were originally executed. As
part of this restoration the chimneypieces from the principal
drawing rooms were returned to their original positions, the lift
which occupied the stairwell was removed, and the plate glass
windows replaced. The sideboard in the Dining Room, and the
pier tables, glasses and back stools in the drawing rooms, as
well as the festoon curtains, were installed in a historical spirit
in 1992 (furniture designed by Andrew Johnston of Simpson and
Brown).
THE COURTYARD GARDEN, 8 QUEEN STREET
Page | 6
THE CULLEN ROOM, 8 QUEEN STREET
Page | 7
9 A N D 10 QU E E N ST R E E T ORDNANCE SURVEY, EDINBURGH, 1853
This is another Grade A Listed Building. It was designed by
Thomas Hamilton in 1843 – 45 to replace the original four storey
townhouse building. This included a smaller great hall than
currently exists.
1864:- Library block added and hall extended by David Bryce,
1876-7:- New library by David and John Bryce
1994:- Principal rooms refurbished by Ben Tindall
ORDNANCE SURVEY, EDINBURGH, 1877
HISTORIC MAPS SHOWING THE EXTENSION TO

THE GREAT HALL
Page | 8
THE GREAT HALL
Page | 9
9 A N D 10 QU E E N ST R E E T C O NT ’ D
1876 DRAWING OF THE LIBRARY EXTENSION AND LINK BUILDING, TOP: ACCESS DOOR TO LIBRARY LINK TO LIBRARY
SHOWING DOOR KNOCKED THROUGH AND DUMMY DOOR OPPOSITE ABOVE: DUMMY DOOR
Page | 10
THE LIBRARY EXTERNAL VIEW OF THE LIBRARY FROM THE COURTYARD
Page | 11
11 – 13 QU E E N ST R E E T
These buildings are Category A listed. They were built circa 1780
with alterations in 1838 by WL Moffat (for himself), 1860; whole
west facade reworked by James Aitken of Moffat and Aitken,
1874; conference centre to rear by Baron Bercott & Associates,
1984. Irregular 11-bay 3-storey basement and attic classical
tenement originally containing 4-bay ground and 1st floor house
to east (No 11, main stair now extends to 2nd floor), tenement
stair at centre serving 1st floor flat and 2 double uppers (No 12),
and 6-bay main door flat to west (No 13).
This is the only rubble faced building on Queen Street,
ironically originally sandwiched between two of the finest
ashlar facades in the street. It is of great interest not only for
the arrangement of dwellings, but also their quality; as well
as for the applied palazzo facade to the three west flats. This
building constitutes a significant surviving part of the original
fabric of Edinburgh’s New Town, one of the most important and
best preserved examples of urban planning in Britain; Queen
Street was built to take advantage of the northern views, and
has survived remarkably unaltered to this day. Elizabeth Grant
of Rothiemurcus stayed in No 11 in 1815, and described it as ‘a
very gloomy old barrack ... on the front of which the sun never
shone, and which was so built against behind there was no free
circulation of air through it’. She found the rooms, which were
not interconnecting, inconvenient for parties, a problem later
remedied in many Queen Street houses. Owned by the Royal
College of Physicians, who only occupy No 11, which connects
with No 9 and their conference centre.
The ground and basement floor accommodation in No.13 was
originally built as a commercial building with offices. This
building has been extensively modified since it was built and the
current ground floor layout bears little resemblance to what was
originally built.
Page | 12
NO. 13 NO. 13 NO. 13

GROUND FLOOR PLAN GROUND FLOOR PLAN GROUND FLOOR PLAN
1860 1896 1966
Page | 13
QU E E N M OTH E R C O N F E R E N C E C E N T R E
Designed by London based practice Baron Bercott & Associates
in 1984, the conference centre replaced storage buildings and
gardens to the rear of 11 – 13 Queen Street. It was built by Sir
Robert McAlpine Limited. It is of a steel and concrete frame
construction with bridge links from No’s 9 and 11 Queen Street.
It is also connected to No 9 Queen Street via a stair at ground
floor level. It has a service access from Thistle Street Lane. The
building is of limited architectural merit both internally and
externally and is in need of refurbishment so that the Conference
Centre can be marketed as a modern 21st Century facility.
As part of the feasibility study an acoustic report on the
auditorium was commissioned. A copy of this report is included
in Appendix 4. Many of the issues highlighted in this report
relate to the condition of the existing services and fabric. These
issues will be resolved with the refurbishment of the auditorium.
Page | 14
STRUCTURE
BEDROOM
BEDROOM
CIRCULATION
SUPPORT
OFFICE
OFFICE
CONFERENCE
BEDROOM
EXTERNAL AREA
OFFICE
THISTLE STREET
N.E. LANE CONFERENCE CENTRE
QUEEN STREET
STORE
EXTERNAL
EXTERNAL AREA CELLAR
AREA
Page | 15
2.0 BUILD I N G A N A L YS I S
EXISTING BASEMENT
2. 2 PL A N N IN G P R O C E SS
Any alterations to the interiors and externals of 8 – 13 Queen
Street will require planning permission and listed building
consent. The internal alterations to the conference centre
would not require planning permission.
The application to the City Edinburgh Council for planning
permission and listed building consent is a complicated
process requiring a lot of detailed research, analysis
and detailed design. It would not be possible to create
sufficient information during a feasibility study to enable
this application. However, it is possible to use the feasibility
study to canvas opinion from both the Planners and Historic
Scotland on our proposals so as to obtain a level of comfort
that permission may be granted in the future.
As can be seen from our later design proposals there are
EXTERNAL AREA
a number of interventions into the fabric of the listed
buildings. These include the following improvements, which COVERED STORE
COVERED WAY UNDER NEW COFERENCE CENTRE
have been numbered in red on the following plans:
AREA
IT ROOM OLD
BOILER
UNCOVERED
1. New disabled access into 13 Queen Street
ROOM
AREA EXTERNAL AREA
IT
MANAGER
2. Alteration of front rooms in 13 Queen Street to form IT COMMS
(OFFICE)
PHOTO- EDUCATION LADIES
STORE COPY
new reception (OFFICE) KITCHEN ROOM
OFFICE
PAPER
MEETING
ROOM 5
LIBRARY STORE STORE
3. Alteration of basement rooms in 13 Queen Street to ELEC. PLANT

GENTS
form lavatory/cloak areas.

HALL
3
4. Creation of new atrium between 11 and 13 Queen STRONG
Street and existing Conference Centre

ROOM MEETING
LIBRARY BOILER ROOM 4
STORE ROOM EDUCATION BUILDING OFFICER PAPER WINE CATERING
OFFICE EDUCATION OFFICE STORE CELLAR KITCHEN
5. Removal of bridge links and creation of new OFFICE
openings in south wall of townhouses.

6. Breaking through ‘dummy door’ on landing outside EXTERNAL AREA
EXTERNAL AREA
EXTERNAL AREA EXTERNAL AREA
EXTERNAL EXTERNAL
EXTERNAL AREA
entrance to Great Hall AREA AREA
CELLARS
CELLAR CELLAR CELLAR
CELLARS
STRUCTURE OFFICE EXTERNAL AREA
CIRCULATION MEETING
SUPPORT TOILETS
Page | 16
EXISTING GROUND FLOOR EXISTING FIRST FLOOR

THISTLE STREET N.E. LANE
AREA
VOID VOID
EXTERNAL AREA STAFF
MALE LAV
EXTERNAL CAR PARKING
MALE WC
DISABLED
CLOAKS LAV FEMALE LAV
STAIR 1
STAIR 2
MAIN LIBRARY STAIR TANKS ST STAIR
KITCHEN STORE STORE 1 2
LIBRARY
ANNEXE NEW LIBRARY
PROJECTION
PLANT
LIBRARY FOYER DISCUSSION SEATING AREA
WORKROOM
STORE
GREAT
HALL
WC
LIBRARY
STORE SINK
STORE
FEMALE WC SHOWER STORE
STORE STORE
COVERED
WAY
LECTURE
EXTERNAL TERRACE THEATRE
FEMALE WC LIBRARY EXHIBITION LECTURERS CHAIR WORKSHOP/
VOID
STORE FOYER ROOM + LAV STORE STORE
IT
SERVER LIBRARY
VOID VOID VOID
CONFERENCE 6 VOID
4
BRIDGE
CATERING
4 4
BRIDGE
ANTE ROOM KITCHEN
4
VOID
5 5 GREGORY
VOID
MALE WC GREAT
CEO OFFICE ROOM
STAIR
FIRST HALL MALE WC
MEETING SPAEKERS DUNCAN
AID SAM OFFICE
PREP ROOM ROOM LIBRARIAN’S
OFFICE ROOM 2 MALE
STAIR HALL CONFERENCE OFFICE HOD’S WC
LINK PLANT (OFFICE)
GREAT STAIR HALL STONE DIS
STAIR WC
MAIN
STAIR
PHONE STATIONERY
INNER HALL
PRESIDENT’S
OFFICE EXECUTIVE VICE
2
HALL MEETING MEETING
SECRETARIAT PRESIDENT’S CULLEN DAVIDSON SIR
RECEPTION STANDARDS ROOM 1 ROOM 3 LIBRARY DESK
ROOM OFFICE ROOM ROOM LIBRARY JOHN CROFTON
OFFICE (OFFICE)
(OFFICE) COMMON ROOM
STAIR
VESTIBULE
VOID VOID PLATT PLATT PLATT

PLATT VOID VOID VOID VOID
QUEEN STREET
8 9 10 11 12 13
1
QUEEN STREET
12 12
8 9 10 11 13 8 9 10 11 13
STRUCTURE OFFICE TOILETS FUNCTION SPACE
CIRCULATION MEETING RECEPTION LIBRARY
SUPPORT CONFERENCE EXTERNAL AREA
Page | 17
2. 2 PL A N N IN G P R O C E SS
Due to our experience on previous listed buildings in Edinburgh
there was a fear that the planners would take a dim view on
what are major interventions into buildings of significant historic
interest.
During the feasibility study period we had two meetings with
Anna Grant, the principle planner dealing with historic building
issues at the City of Edinburgh Council. At our first meeting we
introduced her to our proposals and inspected the site. As a
result of this meeting Anna wanted time to look at the precedents
for our proposals and to arrange a further meeting that was to
include a senior representative from Historic Scotland.
For this second meeting MLA undertook further historical
investigation (as included in previous section) and prepared an
update presentation of our proposals. The second meeting was
attended by Anna Grant and Steven Robb from Historic Scotland.
This was a very positive meeting and as a result Anna Grant was
able to issue a letter advising on the proposals. This letter could
never be deemed as a letter of approval or acceptance of our
proposals but is can still be construed as a very positive view – 6
allowing RCPE a good level of confidence in moving forward to 8 8
the next stage. A copy of this letter is included opposite.
At the next stage, after the development of the concept design
proposals, a full planning application will be made that will have
to include all the necessary detail.
1
1 1 2 2
9
3
4 4
2 2 2
7 7
R EAR EL EV AT ION - PROPOS ED I N TERVEN TI ON S
LOWER EXISTING SILLS TO CREATE NEW REMOVE BRIDGE STRUCTURES & OPENINGS NEW NATURAL STONE PAVING TO PERMIT
1 4 7
DOORWAYS AND INFILL TO MATCH APPEARANCE OF LEVEL ACCESS AT BASEMENT LEVEL
ADJACENT STONEWORK
2 REINSTATE ORIGINAL WINDOW OPENING 8 NEW ROOFLIGHT POSITION
5 REINSTATE ORIGINAL DOOR OPENING
REMOVE WINDOW OPENING AND INFILL 9 NEW LIFT POSITION
3 TO MATCH APPEARANCE OF ADJACENT RAISE EXISTING SILL LEVEL TO PERMIT
STONEWORK 6 CONSTRUCTION OF ROOFLIGHT
Page | 18
EXISTING VOID BETWEEN 9-10 AND CONFERENCE CENTRE
2. 3 BU IL D IN G USE A NA LY SI S
2.3.1 Access/movement around the building
The RCPE on Queen Street is an amalgamation of a number of
buildings, all originally designed for different uses and brought
together by the RCPE as the organisation grew and developed.
While each of these buildings has their own architectural merit
they do create issues in terms of the efficiency of the use of
the buildings. The main issues relative to this feasibility study is
the inefficiency and lack of clarity in the movement of both the
public and staff around the College.
Building Entrances
The RCPE has four potential front doors along Queen Street.
Only one of these is used; No. 9/10 Queen Street. This is the
most ostentatious of the entrances and leads directly to the
most dramatic of the four entrance halls. This entrance should
always be the front door to the College. However, the usage
of the building means that having a sole entrance through
No.9 creates a bottleneck and conflict of interest between the
different public uses of the College.
The College has a number of different functions when relatively
large groups arrive at the building;
• Conference Centre functions; RCPE awards,
conventions, exhibitions, private hire etc.
• Great Hall and Library; examinations, weddings, formal
dinners etc
• Other meeting facilities; examinations, private meetings,
council meetings etc.
The main conflict is between the use of the conference centre

and the great hall. If there is a wedding utilising the library and
the great hall and a large group using the conference centre then
all visitors must use the same front door. This makes reception
for each respective function difficult to control and confusing
for visitors. The best solution to this issue is the creation of a
separate entrance and reception for the conference centre.
NOS 9 & 10 QUEEN STREET, THE PRINCIPLE ENTRANCE FOR RCPE
Page | 20
ENTRANCE TO NO. 8 QUEEN STREET ENTRANCE TO NO. 11 QUEEN STREET ENTRANCE TO NO. 13 QUEEN STREET
Page | 21
Movement around the Building:
In order to link the various buildings together a number of
corridors and steps have had to be created through original
townhouse rooms. This has created a ‘rabbit warren’ of
circulation which is confusing, even to regular users of the
building. A purpose made, singular College would have a central
circulation area that would provide an easy way of navigating AREA
the building. While this is virtually impossible due to the confines EXTERNAL AREA STAFF
created by the historic buildings it is important that any solution MALE LAV
makes a dramatic improvement to circulation around the MALE WC

DISABLED
building. CLOAKS LAV FEMALE LAV
STAIR 1
STAIR 2
MAIN LIBRARY
LIBRARY KITCHEN STORE STORE
ANNEXE
LIBRARY FOYER DISCUSSION SEATING AREA

STORE
WC
LIBRARY
STORE SINK
FEMALE WC SHOWER
STORE STORE
COVERED
WAY
LECTURE

EXTERNAL TERRACE THEATRE
FEMALE WC LIBRARY EXHIBITION LECTURERS
STORE FOYER ROOM + LAV
IT
SERVER LIBRARY
VOID VOID VOID
CONFERENCE
? ?
BRIDGE
BRIDGE
ANTE ROOM
MALE WC
LOST!
CEO OFFICE
FIRST
AID SAM OFFICE MEETING SPAEKERS
ROOM 2 PREP ROOM
STAIR HALL CONFERENCE OFFICE
LINK
GREAT STAIR HALL
PHONE STATIONERY
INNER HALL
PRESIDENT’S
OFFICE EXECUTIVE VICE MEETING MEETING
HALL SECRETARIAT PRESIDENT’S
RECEPTION STANDARDS ROOM 1 ROOM 3
ROOM OFFICE
(OFFICE) OFFICE
COMMON
STAIR
VESTIBULE
VOID VOID PLATT PLATT PLATT

PLATT VOID VOID VOID VOID
8 9 10 11 12 13
QUEEN STREET
MAIN ENTRANCE
12
8 9 10 11 13
MOVEMENT - GROUND FLOOR
Page | 22

DISABLED ACCESS & DISABLED ACCESS &
LOADING LOADING
?
VOID VOID ?
STAIR TANKS ST STAIR

1 2
NEW LIBRARY
PROJECTION
PLANT
WORKROOM
GREAT
HALL
STORE
STORE
VOID CHAIR WORKSHOP/

STORE STORE
?
CATERING
KITCHEN
VOID
VOID
? NEGATIVE SPACE!
GREGORY
ROOM GREAT
STAIR
HALL MALE WC
DUNCAN
ROOM LIBRARIAN’S
OFFICE MALE
HOD’S WC
STONE DIS PLANT (OFFICE)
STAIR WC
MAIN
STAIR
CULLEN DAVIDSON SIR

ROOM LIBRARY DESK
ROOM LIBRARY JOHN CROFTON
(OFFICE)
ROOM
QUEEN STREET
12
8 9 10 11 13
MOVEMENT - FIRST FLOOR EXISTING AREA FOR THE PROPOSED ATRIUM IS A DEADZONE, WITH
LITTLE OPPORTUNITY FOR USE.
Page | 23
2.3.2 Disabled usage.
ACCESSIBILITY - BASEMENT FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY - FIRST FLOOR
The issues facing access for the disabled are well known to the
College. A report was commissioned into compliance with the
necessary regulations by RCPE and included in Appendix 7. In
summary this report highlights the;
• Discriminatory disabled access to the rear of the

buildings on Thistle Street Lane.
• The difficulty in getting disabled access through the
building.
• Inaccessibility of various parts of the building.
It recommends the creation of a new disabled access at the

front of the building along Queen Street.
The following drawings highlight in red those areas of the
existing building that are inaccessible to the wheelchair
disabled. It should also be noted that the areas that do provide
disabled access only provide second grade access, ie through a
wheelchair stair lift in the rear stairs of the conference centre.
The wheelchair access to the Great Hall is through a chair store.
The aim of this feasibility study is to make a dramatic
improvement to the disabled access to as much of the building
as possible. This improvement is primarily for the public users of
the building but should, were possible, also provide improvement
for the College staff. ACCESSIBILITY - GROUND FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY - SECOND FLOOR

STRUCTURE
EXTERNAL INACCESSIBLE SPACE
INTERNAL INACCESSIBLE SPACE
ACCESSIBLE SPACE
ACCESSIBILITY DIAGRAMS
Page | 24
DISABLED ACCESS & DISABLED ACCESS &

LOADING LOADING
?
VOID ?
STAIR TANKS ST STAIR

1 2
PROJECTION PLANT
WORKROOM
GREAT
HALL
DIAGRAM SHOWING DISABLED ACCESS EXISTING DISABLED ACCESS IS POOR

FROM THISTLE STREET LANE
Page | 25
2.3.3 Lavatory provision 2.3.4 Catering
One of the main areas of concern on the existing facilities is the The main kitchen facilities for the College are located under the
size and location of the lavatory provision for the conference Great Hall. These facilities work well for the production of food
centre. This includes accessible toilets and mother and baby for a banquet in the Great Hall but suffer from the following
facilities. failings:
With an occupancy of 320 in the conference centre plus the • This single kitchen sometimes has to cope with two
use of the seminar rooms in No.13 Queen Street, the following different caterers providing for two simultaneous
lavatory facilities are required under the Scottish Technical functions.
Standards; • Plating-up for functions in the Great Hall occurs on the
landing of an escape stair. This is contrary to health and
safety and technical standards.
WCs Urinals
• There is no separate storage for functions occurring in
Male 2 5 the conference centre.
Female 12 -
There is also a small kitchen and servery area which serves the
Conference Centre, but this also requires upgrading.
All of the above points need to be addressed in the feasibility
The existing lavatory provision in the conference centre is: proposals.
WCs Urinals
Male 4 7
Female 7 -

This highlights that the number of lavatories need to be
increased in the building refurbishment.
The feasibility proposals include an additional 3no. male WC’s
and 1no. urinal over and above the Scottish Technical Standards’ KITCHEN/SERVERY
requirements; this is intended to improve the lavatory provision
adjacent to the new reception, seminar spaces and atrium area.
The existing lavatories have not been refurbished in the history MAIN
of the conference centre and as such mean that they are need KITCHEN
of a major facelift to allow them to match the quality of the
refurbished auditorium and concourse.
The feasibility proposals show two reconfigured WC areas each
with an adjacent accessible WC which is an improvement on the
current provision. The Scottish Technical Standards stipulate a
maximum travel distance of 45m between any occupied part of
the building and an accessible WC which the proposed locations
do not achieve, however this would be negotiated at a later
stage.
There is a stated briefing requirement for a parent/baby room
in the refurbishment which has been located adjacent to the
reconfigured WC’s in the basement.
EXISTING LAVATORY FACILITIES GROUN D FLOOR PLAN
Page | 26
G ROU N D F LO O R P LA N
KEY 2.3.5 Conference Centre Storage
1. EXISTING STORAGE
To create the flexibility and functionality for the conference
centre and seminar rooms, furniture storage is required for;
tables, chairs, exam tables and banqueting tables. The adjacent
drawings shows the location of the existing storage rooms.
1
One of the difficulties with the main storage rooms on the first
floor is the fact that access to the conference centre concourse
is via a stair. This necessitates the manhandling of heavy stacks
of chairs creating a potential health and safety issue.
Any proposals for refurbishing the conference centre should
replicate the area of storage and try to resolve the need to
transport the store items via stairs.
1
1
1 1
F IRS T F L O O R P LA N B ASEM ENT PLAN
Page | 27
2.3.6 Condition Survey. Conference Centre Roof
An inspection of the roof over the Conference Centre was
undertaken by MLA and a full report with recommendation
options is attached in Appendix 3.
In summary, although the roof is over 25 years old, it is still
in good condition. However, it is unlikely that it will survive
more than two or three years without the need for repairs or
replacement. As the conference centre will be closed during
the refurbishment it is recommended that the roof is replaced
during this period to avoid future inconvenience to the operation
of the centre.
There were a number of options for the roof repair. However the
ideal solution is the inclusion of a new layer of thermal insulation
to improve the energy efficiency of the building. In doing this,
the height of the roof finish increases. This has a knock-on effect
on the height of perimeter roof details meaning that the copings
will have to be raised in height.
2.3.7 Existing Services

A survey of the existing services was carried out by RSP
Consulting Engineers. A full copy of their report together with
their recommendations is included as Appendix 1.
In summary the vast majority of the mechanical and electrical
services serving the conference centre and adjoining foyer
spaces are approaching the end of their respective economic
life and should be considered for replacement as part of any
refurbishment works.
The following items have been identified as suitable for potential
re-use: -
• Ventilation plant automatic controls system.
• Projector room air conditioning system.
• Lighting control racks within Conference centre
including Crestron AV control system.
• Sub-main cabling and TP&N distribution within
Conference Centre.
• CCTV system emanating from Projector room.
• Data infrastructure surrounding conference space.
It should also be noted that other items have been
identified as requiring attention that are out with the
scope of the conference centre condition report but are
raised for consideration.
• The main LTHW flow and return pipework serving the
conference centre from the centralised boiler room and
the associated pipework within the boiler room.
• Main electrical switchgear is antiquated and in need of
modernisation and rationalisation.
TOP: CONFERENCE CENTRE ROOF AS EXISTING

ABOVE: EXISTING SERVICES ARE OUTDATED
Page | 28
2.3.8 Structure
A structural survey was carried on the existing buildings by any significant water or damp penetration through the main
David Narro Associates. A full copy of this report is attached as roofs. Where the steelwork can be seen there is no immediate
Appendix 2. sign of any significant corrosion of the steelwork. There are
signs of some minor rusting of the metal edging strips to the
In general the structure of the building is in fairly good condition
Woodcemair slabs. Elsewhere some types of wood wool slab
In general the condition of the structure of the Conference Centre have presented problems in the past. These tended to be where
appears to be reasonable for a building of this age and type. the slabs have been used as permanent formwork to reinforced
There do not appear to be any immediate signs of foundation concrete slabs or walls. In general we are not aware of specific
related movement or cracking in the structure. At the lower problems or defects arsing from the use of Woodcemair slabs
levels the spaces are generally dry with no immediate signs of except where these have been saturated; then the slabs can lose
water or damp penetration through the walls where there is strengthen and cohesion.
ground behind. The only obvious area of damp penetration is
to the soffit at the slapping through to the adjacent building at
the south east corner of the foyer. There is some minor lines of
vertical cracking to the north and east wall of the lecture theatre
typically where there is a change in the thickness and line of
the load bearing walls. The movement does not appear to be
recent or progressive. There is a more significant crack to the
north wall of the lecture theatre at the northwest corner where
a reinforced concrete beam supporting the wall over sits onto
the end of the load bearing masonry wall. This cracking is likely
to be the result of differential movement between the different
forms of construction at this point in the building. In the store
room space above the foyer to the east of the lecture theatre we
can see lines of diagonal cracking in the screed finish over the
coffered floor slab. From below however there are no immediate
signs of cracking to the concrete of the slab. The damage to
the screed finish is likely to be the result of a slight deflection or
creep of the slab then cracking the screed which has been cast
without joints. This damage is not structurally significant.
In the workshop and plantroom spaces at the upper level around
the back (southwest) of the lecture theatre there is regular
vertical cracking though the height the blockwork inner leaf of
the external walls and through the blockwork of some internal
partition walls. The regular spacing and pattern of this cracking
suggests it is the result of the shrinkage of the concrete blocks.
The blockwork appears to have been built without intermediate
movement or control joints. The shrinkage and cracking may
have occurred where immature (or recently cast blocks) were
used Simple glass tell-tales have been fixed across the line of
the cracks in the blockwork. We do not know when these tell-
tales were fixed, but since that time there does not appear to
have been any further movement and the tell-tales have not
cracked. Externally there is some cracking to the reconstituted
stone outer leaf at the south east corner of the building. There
are diagonal lines of cracking to the joints to the outer leaf
blockwork stepping up from the corner of the building. This is
most likely a sign of creep deflection of the relatively long span
and partly cantilevering reinforced concrete edge beams that
support the masonry of the upper façade here. There are signs
of water penetration and saturation at parapet level to the rear
façade to the Lane. Internally there are no immediate signs of
Page | 29
Page | 30
FEASIBILITY PROPOSALS
Page | 31
3.0 FEASI B I LI TY PROPOS A L S
IN TROD U C TIO N
The briefing schedule in Section 1 and the various building use
issues highlighted in Section 2 have been carefully analysed
during the feasibility study. As a result of this analysis the main
issues to be resolved are now covered under the following
headings:
1. The creation of a new atrium between the conference
centre and townhouses.
2. Improved disabled access.
3. Conference centre reception
4. Conference centre refurbishment
We believe that the proposed illustrated will provide RCPE with

a modern, ‘state of the art’ facility that will have the necessary
quality to serve the College’s needs for the next twenty years as
well as vastly improving the marketing potential of the buildings
to visitors, prospective members and organisations looking for
conference facilities in Scotland.
LINKS
LINKS
POSITIVE SPACE
EXCITING, INTERNAL
CIRCULATION HUB
POSITIVE LINK TO 8 / 9 / 10
BUILDINGS
LINKS RECEPTION
LINKS FACILITIES
MAIN ACCESS CONFERENCE

CENTRE
ORIGINAL CONCEPT DIAGRAM
Page | 32
3 .1 TH E ATRI UM
After a detailed examination of the existing buildings and how
they are used by both staff and public the concept of creating a
new atrium between the south side of the existing buildings and
the north face of the conference centre. This is a dead space at
present and is only accessible at basement level for maintenance.
A new rooflight is proposed over the length of 11 – 13 Queen Street
spanning from the old townhouses to the conference centre. It
is proposed that the blockwork finish of the conference centre
within the atrium is overclad in plasterboard to create a light
smooth finish. This will not only look more modern and crisp but
will reflect more daylight into the space as well as providing a
wall for mounted large pieces of artwork.
BEDROOM
BEDROOM
GLAZED ROOF
TENANT SPACE TENANT SPACE
PLANT LECTURE THEATRE
TENANT SPACE TENANT SPACE
STORE
STRUCTURE NEW
ATRIUM
GOODS AREA
CIRCULATION
RECEPTION RECEPTION
SUPPORT DIRECT LINK
NEW DISABLED
OFFICE WC
STAIR EXHIBITION / FOYER
PLATFORM LIFT
CONFERENCE
WC CLOAKS
BEDROOM LINK
EXTERNAL AREA
TENANT SPACE
TOILETS
RECEPTION
THE PROPOSED ATRIUM WOULD SUCCESSFULLY LINK ALL THE REFURBISHED AREAS WITH
FULLY COMPLIANT ACCESS TO THE MOST IMPORTANT AREAS OF THE BUILDINGS.
Page | 33
The new atrium will offer the following major benefits:
• A ‘wow’ factor for the entrance to the conference centre
• Enhancement of the natural light into this part of the
building –especially the entrance to the conference
centre.
• A clear circulation route through the building linking the
conference centre and the great hall.
• Removal of walls around access corridor to conference
centre doors will increase width of atrium as well as
making the space feel much more open.
• The creation of vertical circulation in the form of lifts,
ramps and stairs. These resolve the disabled access
issues.
• New lifts will help resolve the health and safety issues
for movement of equipment.
• Lift at west end will allow direct access for materials to
Thistle Street Lane.
• New lift at east end will provide direct link from
conference centre to Great Hall. This lift also opens up
access to Sir John Crofton Room.
• Access to atrium base will create new areas for milling
and exhibitions.
• Access at atrium base will open up access to basement
rooms for public and disabled visitors.
In summary the new atrium with its glazed roof will become the
feature that will bring this building together work as a cohesive
College. It will provide an instant solution to many of the briefing
questions:
• It improves circulation around the building.
• It resolves many of the disabled access issues
• It allows the segregation between the conference centre
and the Great Hall while accentuating the feeling that
this is one building.
• It resolves many of the health and safety issues.
Page | 34
EXISTING STONE NEW GLAZED LIFT PROVIDING ACCESS

ELEVATION ROOF BETWEEN BASEMENT, GROUND
& FIRST FLOORS
BRIDGE LINK TO
FIRST FLOOR
STORE
ACCESS TO GREAT
HALL & FUNCTION
ROOMS
ACCESS TO NO 9/10
GROUND FLOOR
ACCESS TO NO 9/10
BASEMENT
ACCESS TO CONFERENCE
CENTRE
ACCESS BETWEEN NEW

RECEPTION AND CONFERENCE
CENTRE
LIFT PROVIDING ACCESS
BETWEEN BASEMENT, GROUND
& FIRST FLOORS
PRECEDENT IMAGES
Page | 35
ACCESS TO FIRST FLOOR NEW GLAZED
STORE & PLATE UP AREA ROOF
ENTRANCE TO BRIDGE LINK TO

LECTURE THEATRE FIRST FLOOR STORE
ACCESS TO
CONFERENCE
CENTRE FOYER
& FIRST FLOORS
RECESSED DISPLAY
RECESSED SEATING
OPEN WALKWAY WITH ACCESS

TO CONFERENCE CENTRE &
FOYERS
& FIRST FLOORS
PRECEDENT
Page | 36
BAS E M E N T P LA N
KEY
1. LIFT ACCESS TO GROUND AND FIRST FLOOR 4. LIFT ACCESS TO GROUND AND FIRST FLOOR
2. ACCESS TO 9/10 QUEEN STREET 5. ACCESS TO SEMINAR ROOM, WC’S, BABY CHANGE, ACCESSIBLE
WC & CLOAKS
3. ACCESS TO GROUND FLOOR/CONFERENCE CENTRE
6. ACCESS TO SEMINAR ROOMS
DISPLAY RECESS
3
2
4
SEATING RECESS DISPLAY RECESS SEATING RECESS
1
6 5
SEMINAR ROOM TOILETS
SEMINAR ROOM
SEMINAR ROOM
CLOAKS/STORAGE
SEMINAR ROOM
TOILETS
Page | 37
GR OU N D F L OO R P LA N
KEY
1. LIFT ACCESS TO BASEMENT AND FIRST FLOOR 4. BRIDGE ACCESS FROM NO.13 QUEEN STREET
2. ACCESS BETWEEN ORIGINAL BUILDINGS AND CONFERENCE RECEPTION TO CONFERENCE CENTRE
CENTRE 5. LIFT ACCESS TO BASEMENT & FIRST FLOOR
3. STAIR & RAMP ACCESS TO LOWER AUDITORIUM AREA
AUDITORIUM
CONCOURSE
AUDITORIUM 3
3
TO BASEMENT
OPEN WALKWAY WITHIN ATRIUM WITH

2 LEVEL ACCESS TO EXHIBITION FOYER
& CONFERENCE CENTRE 5
4
1
LINK TO
ATRIUM/
CONFERENCE
CENTRE
OFFICE RECEPTION/
WAITING
CLOAKS
SEMINAR ROOM
SEMINAR ROOM
Page | 38
F IRS T F L O O R P LA N
KEY
1. LIFT ACCESS TO BASEMENT & GROUND FLOOR 5. LIFT ACCESS TO BASEMENT & GROUND FLOORS
2. ACCESS TO GREAT HALL AND ASSOCIATED ROOMS 6. ACCESS TO FIRST FLOOR STORE WITH LEVEL
3. ACCESS TO FIRST FLOOR STORE & NEW PLATE-UP AREA ACCESS TO THISTLE STREET LANE
4. ACCESS TO JOHN CROFTON ROOM
STORAGE
AUDITORIUM
3
2 5
1 4
Page | 39
3. 2 IM PROVE D D I SA B LE D AC C E SS
Queen Street Access
Our proposals are to create a new access for the conference
centre through 13 Queen Street. It is also our intention to make
this the disabled access point for the building. A number of
options had been investigated but it was felt that No.13 presented
the best option for the entrance to the conference centre.
The entrance to 13 Queen Street is up a set of stone stairs. In
order to facilitate wheelchair access a platform lift will have
to be incorporated to the side of the stair. This will mean an
opening will have to be formed into the stone wall along the
street. A platform lift, which will normally be parked at basement
level, can be called from the street level. This lift will stop at the
street level allowing the wheelchair user to alight. The lift would
then rise further to the entrance level and disembark through
another hole in the stone wall. A new step will have to be created
at the top of the existing steps to create a level access into the
ground floor of No.13. Once the operation has been completed
the lift will return to its ‘home’ at basement level.
As the new lift is a major intervention into the fabric of this listed
building it will require Listed Building Consent. As described
in section 2.2 the option for this lift in this location has been
discussed with the City of Edinburgh planners. Although they
have some reservations on the detail of how the lift will be
incorporated into the existing stone structure they are willing
to support the proposal, provided that the final details can be
resolved to their satisfaction.
NEW GLASS SIDED

PLATFORM LIFT (PARKED AT
BASEMENT LEVEL)
NEW TRADITIONAL
RAIL GATE (TO MATCH
EXISTING)
Page | 40
General Disabled Access

B AS E M E NT G R OU ND FL OOR
The following drawings show the plans of the building at;
basement, ground, first and third floor levels and indicates those
areas that now have disabled access. It should also be noted that
these areas of disabled access are of a much better quality than
those at present.
STRUCTURE
EXTERNAL INACCESSIBLE SPACE
INTERNAL INACCESSIBLE SPACE
ACCESSIBLE SPACE
NEW ACCESSIBLE SPACE
F IRS T F LO O R T HIR D FL OOR

EXISTING EXISTING
BASEMENT GROUND FLOOR
EXISTING EXISTING
FIRST FLOOR THIRD FLOOR
Page | 41
3. 3. N E W CON F E R E NC E C E NT R E R E C EPT ION
LIFT
As highlighted in the previous chapter, the new, separate
entrance for the conference centre is to be via No.13 Queen
Street. This will bring the delegates into the east end of the new
ATRIUM
atrium.
To create a new reception for the conference centre it will be
necessary to modify the rooms at the ground floor of No.13.
In our first meetings with the City of Edinburgh planners
and Historic Scotland it was suggested that this reception
area could be in the first room on the right as you enter the LINK TO
building. This would require a large opening in the corridor wall. ATRIUM/
A reception area would be formed in this room and delegates CONFERENCE
would find their way into the new atrium through and existing CENTRE
double door opening. This is illustrated in the adjacent plans.
However, in latter discussions with RCPE it was felt that the size
of this reception area may not be sufficient to cope with large RECEPTION/
numbers of delegates arriving at one time. A further proposal WAITING
is illustrated that opens up a much larger area of the ground
floor plan as a single reception area. This would help to resolve
any queuing issues. A similar scale of reception has just been SEMINAR ROOM
created on the south side Charlotte Square and an image of this
is shown opposite.
Cloakroom facilities are a major issue. At present cloaks for SEMINAR ROOM
the conference centre are located adjacent to the kitchen. The
new proposal locates the cloakrooms along with some toilet
facilities in the basement immediately below the reception. This
is accessible via the lift in the atrium or the existing stair well.
RECEPTION
ENTRANCE FROM QUEEN STREET

OPT ION 01
PRECEDENT
Page | 42
LIFT
ATRIUM
LINK TO
ATRIUM/
CONFERENCE
CENTRE
WAITING
SEMINAR ROOM
WAITING/
LOUNGE
RECEPTION
ENTRANCE FROM QUEEN STREET

OPTION 0 2
PRECEDENT
Page | 43
3. 3 RE F U RB I SHM E N T O F C O N F E R E N CE 1. Replacement of ceiling with new ‘curved rafts’ 4. New wall panelling
C E N TRE
The existing ceiling with its integrated lighting is one of the To enhance both the appearance and acoustic quality of the
Auditorium elements of the space that really reduces the overall quality of the space it is proposed that the walls of the seating areas are lined
space. The ceiling panels themselves are very friable and cannot be out with acoustically absorbent material.
The proposals to refurbish the auditorium include:
replaced when damaged.
Up each side this will consist of timber slats in front of an
1. Replacement of ceiling with new ‘curved rafts’.
When considering the replacement options MLA looked at a variety acoustically absorbent panel at low level and a matrix of
2. Replacement of existing lighting. New lighting will be either of ceilings but opted for a bespoke set of ceiling ‘rafts’ organised acoustically coloured panels above. This will provide an exciting
in gaps between rafts or recessed into rafts themselves. in concentric arcs. The choice of ceiling has a number of benefits: and modern ambience for the space. It would also be possible
to integrate LED strip lighting into this panelling to add to the
3. Replacement of existing cooling and heating system. New • Visual interest; clean, crisp and modern.
effect.
grilles will located in gaps between rafts. • Can be coated with different acoustic finish depending on
location. The Acoustic Report recommends an acoustically At the rear of the hall the wall will be lined with the acoustic
4. New wall panelling
reflective finish on panels near the front and absorbent fabric lined panels.
5. New carpets towards the rear. The front of the auditorium will remain as painted plasterboard
6. New auditorium seating. Existing seating cannot be • Integration of lighting and other services. although the recesses over the entrance doors will be overclad
repaired/refurbished There will be a sloping plasterboard ceiling over ‘stage’ area and a to simplify the design.
7. New AV system flat plasterboard ceiling over rear portion of auditorium. The ceiling
void together with all services behind the raft will be painted out
8. Replacement freestanding curtain to reduce size of hall. black to reduce their visual impact 5. New Carpet
The carpet on the seating area will be replaced with a similar
carpet; a heavy duty, short fibre carpet laid on the concrete
2. New Lighting steps. Nosings on the steps will be in a contrasting colour to
The exact details of the new lighting will be finalised during the later satisfy DDA requirements.
design stages. However, the design principle is that as much of The timber floor in the stage area will remain.
the lighting as possible will be incorporated into the gaps between
the ceiling rafts. These will be long lasting, energy efficient LED
fittings. In the large ceiling rafts towards the rear of the auditorium 6. New Auditorium Seating
recessed LED spotlights will be integrated into the rafts.
A selection process for the new seating will have to be carried
The lighting will be controlled by a new control system. Should the our at the next design stage. The feedback on the existing
hall be reduced in size by sub-dividing curtain the lighting in the seating is that it is uncomfortable when used for long periods
unoccupied area can remain off but still maintain the fire escape due to the thinness of the padding.
lighting.
The steps of the auditorium cannot be changed due to the nature
At the front of the hall there will be a stage lighting track which of the construction. The ’steep’ stairs will therefore remain in
will allow the mounting of adjustable spotlights and other stage place,
lighting. This track will be concealed from the auditorium seating
by the ceiling arrangement. It is proposed that a comfortable auditorium chair is selected
that will be fabric clad and have a quiet spring on the retractable
seat.
3. New Heating and Cooling System The ‘sponsors’ name tags from the existing seats will be removed
The existing system is unable to provide adequate comfort and replaced on the new seats.
conditions throughout the auditorium. The new system will include The new seating arrangement will leave four gaps on the front
new air handling units in the existing plant room, new ductwork to row for wheelchair usage.
the auditorium and new ductwork in the auditorium, The only thing
that auditorium users will see are 450mm diameter grilles in the Handrails will remain or be replaced.
gaps between the ceiling rafts. These will be painted out in a dark
colour to reduce their visual impact.
The cooling and heating system will be organised in zones so that if
the hall is reduced in size the cooling can be turned off. The zoning
will also allow the comfort in different areas of the auditorium to be
controlled to avoid hot or cold spots.
Page | 44
7. New AV system 8. Sub-dividing Curtain

RCPE’s audio visual team have created the following list of AV About five times a year there is a need to visually reduce the
items to be installed. These have been priced and are included size of the auditorium to accommodate smaller groups. At
in proposals: present this is achieved using a freestanding curtain hired from
a supplier.
New Audio System New DDA systems
MLA looked at a series of options for a more integrated solution.
• Signal distribution & processing • Induction loops
These included;
• Main speaker cluster & Delays • Infrared
• Roller blinds that retract into the raft ceiling
• Cinema speakers & processing • Cabling
• Audience & table top microphone systems • Festoon curtains that retract into the raft ceiling
• Radio microphones, Ambient microphones & Source New Lectern • Freestanding solid panels that would be erected when
• Cabling required.
• Lectern inc equipment
All of these solutions were both expensive and very difficult to
• Cabling
manage. Any retractable system would have to be mechanical
New Video System
and as result would be expensive to install and operate. The
• Signal distribution & processing Cabling Infrastructure to All Meeting Rooms manhandling of the solid panels would create a health and safety
• Projector issue. The retractable blinds/curtains would have to site below
• Cabling the existing steel structure above the ceiling. This would lower
• LED monitors
• CC Racks & end points the ceiling level and reduce the sight lines from the rear of the
• Wireless facility for video on end user tablets hall. The blind/curtain solution would only provide a sub-division
• Building wide racks & end points
• Cabling at one location – thus reducing flexibility.
• Hardware & containment
It was decided that the preferred solution was to persevere
New Stage Lighting with the freestanding curtain. It is proposed that this curtain is
formed using a dark coloured fabric to match the new interior
• LED moving heads design – preferably black or navy blue.
• DMX control interface system
• Cabling
Video Conference
• VC in Conference Centre
New Camera Systems

• PTZ HD Cameras
• Signal distribution & processing
• Cabling
New Lighting Control system

• Crestron main processor & required systems
• Touch panels
• Cabling
Voting system- optional

• Voting system
• Cabling
Page | 45
AUD I T O R I UM : C O NC E PT SKET C H
Page | 46
PRECEDENT IMAGES
Page | 47
AU D ITORIU M C O N C O UR SE
The existing concourse outside the atrium is an unattractive and
uninviting space. This is due to its dated materials and very poor
lighting. STORE
ACC.
WC
It is proposed that the whole area is stripped out and refurbished KITCHEN
to create a concourse that will be modern, light and flexible. SERVERY
MALE FEMALE
The functions that occur within the concourse are to remain: TOILETS TOILETS
• Buffet lunches
• Exhibitions
• General milling during conferences.
• Exhibitor presentations
STORE
• Formal dinners
The design proposals include the removal of the ‘green room’
and storage area within the concourse. This is to provide a more
open space at the west side of the concourse where delegates
will approach from the new reception.
Some fixed seating will be provided. This will double up as STORE
general seating and as a location for exhibitor stands.

AUDITORIUM CONCOURSE
AUDITORIUM
AUDITORIUM FOYER
LINK TO CONFERENCE
CENTRE RECEPTION
LINK TO OTHER TO ATRIUM

BASEMENT LIFT
BUILDINGS
ATRIUM
LIFT
Page | 48
AU D ITOR I UM C O N C O UR SE : C O N CEPT SKET C H
PRECEDENT IMAGES
Page | 49
CATE RIN G F AC I LI T I E S
A new kitchen will be provided that will serve the conference
centre. This will be a re-heat kitchen, meaning that the bulk of
the food preparation will be undertaken remotely. The reheat
kitchen can accommodate the following equipment; two full
height fridges or freezers, stainless steel counters, standard
sink, hand wash sink, commercial dishwasher and ice machine.
There is also space for two range cookers if this became a
requirement in the future, however additional extract would
need to be installed. Seated formal dinners can still be catered
for from the existing main kitchen.
Due to the flexibility required within the concourse, buffet meals
will still be served from temporary trestle tables with fabric
coverings. These tables will be stored away from the concourse
when not in use.
The existing kitchen is not included in the refurbishment.
However it is proposed that, rather than plating up on the stair
landing, as occurs at present, this process is carried out on the
store immediately adjacent to the Great Hall as shown on the
drawing. This will resolve the health and safety issue as well as
providing a larger, more useable space.
SEMINAR ROOM SEMINAR ROOM
Because the existing kitchen in the basement of No. 13 Queen
Street will be lost when the new cloakroom facilities are
provided, a replacement kitchen is proposed in the basement of
No. 11 as shown on the adjacent plan.
CLOAKS
KITCHEN
STORE
1 1 Q U EEN ST R EET - BAS EMEN T PLAN
Page | 50
STAIRS TO
KITCHEN
STORE RE-HEAT KITCHEN
SERVERY
THE GREAT HALL
OFFICE
AUDITORIUM
STAIRS TO
PLATE UP
RELOCATED
PLATE UP
TO THE GREAT HALL AREA
WHEELCHAIR REFUGE
ATRIUM VOID
LIFT
EXHIBITION FOYER
G ROU N D F LO O R P LA N 1S T FLOOR PLAN
Page | 51
LA VATORIE S
The existing lavatories are to be stripped out and replaced with
new male, female and accessible toilets as shown in the drawing
below.
These lavatories finishes will be decided at the next design stage ACC.
but should be modern and fresh to reflect the standard of the WC
LIFT
MALE FEMALE
TOILET TOILET
ATRIUM
STORAGE
MALE
TOILET
GROUN D FLOOR PLAN
BABY
CHANGE
ACC.
WC
FEMALE
TOILET
B ASEM ENT PL AN PRECEDENT IMAGES
Page | 52
G ROU N D F LO O R P LA N
KEY refurbished auditorium, concourse and atrium.
1 1. STORAGE
S TORAGE
2. CLOAKS
3. LEVEL ACCESS FROM LANE TO ATRIUM The drawings adjacent show the location of the storage areas
that will remain after the refurbishment. The main area of
1 improvement to the storage is the fact that the lift at the west
end of the atrium allows equipment to be transferred to the
concourse without having to use the stairs. Equally exhibitors
1 using the concourse will not need to use stairs to get equipment
from Thistle Street Lane.
1 1
1
3
2
1
F IRS T F L O O R P LA N B ASEM ENT PLAN PRECEDENT IMAGES
Page | 53
4 .0 C OST S U M M A RY 5. 0 PRO G RAMME/PRO CUREMENT S UMMARY
A full cost report on the proposed refurbishment has been PR O GRAMME PROCUREMEN T
undertaken and included in Appendix 5. The executive summary
A strategic programme for the overall project is attached at the This is the process by which the contractor is tendered and
of these costs is attached below, showing the costs of each
end of this section. appointed by RCPE. There are a number of options open to RCPE
major element of works.
and the decision will be based on the RCPE’s attitude to the;
The key dates from this programme are:
The costs of the building works at today’s rates are £3.725
• Cost certainty
million. This includes a 10% contingency for unforeseen costs, Appointment of Project Manager; End June 2014
design development and tender fluctuations. • Quality
Appointment of Design Team; Start Sept 2014
• Programme Certainty
To allow for inflation from 2014 until the tender period a further
Concept Design completed by; Early Nov 2014
£235k should be added.
Developed Design completed by; Mid January 2015 The principle procurement options open to RCPE are;
These costs are exclusive of design team fees. These will be
tendered at the next stage but an allowance of 12% should be Detailed Design completed by; May 2015 • Traditional procurement – contractor appointed after
made, ie £475k. tender of full design information.
Tender Period finishes; Mid-Oct 2015
• Design and Build Procurement – contractor appointed
Project Starts on site; December 2015
before completion of design information, Contractor
Project completion; Mid-November 2016 then takes design team on board to complete the
design.
• Management Contracting. Contract is tendered in
The completion date is set so that the St Andrew’s Day Festival can separate packages allowing an early start on site.
be held in the conference centre in both 2015 and 2016.
As the start date for the project is not until December 2015 there
is no programme pressure to get an early start on site. Equally
quality is very high on the RCPE agenda. Cost certainty is best
obtained by the contractor tendering on the most detailed set of
information possible. For these reasons the recommendation of
this report is that a traditional form of procurement is adopted.
The programme above assumes that this form of procurement
will be adopted.
At the next stage, with the appointment of a Project Manager, a
detailed analysis of the procurement options will be undertaken
and this may influence this recommendation.
Page | 54
ROYAL COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS OF EDINBURGH

ST RATE GI C PROGRA MME F O R R E F U R BI S H ME N T
STRATEGIC PROGRAMME FOR REFURBISHMENT
ID Task Name Duration 2014 2015 2016 2017
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb
1
3 Feasibility Study 75 days
4 Council Approval to proceed 10 days
5 Project Manager 35 days
6 Project Manager Tender documentation 10 days
7 Project Manager Procurement 20 days
8 Project Manager Interviews 5 days
9 Design Team Procurement 50 days
10 Create tender documentation 15 days
11 Design Team Tender 20 days
12 Tender Evaluation 5 days
13 Design Team Interviews 5 days
14 Design Team Appointment 5 days
15 RIBA Stage 2. Concept Design 40 days
16 RCPE Sign Off 5 days
17 RIBA Stage 3. Developed Design 50 days
18 RCPE Sign Off 5 days
19 RIBA Stage 4 Detailed Design and Tender Info 80 days
20 RCPE Sign-off 10 days
21 Planning Permission/Listed Building Consent 205 days
22 Contractor Tender Process 105 days
23 Preparation of Tender documentation 15 days
24 Tender period 60 days
25 Approval of tenders 10 days
26 Lead-in period 20 days
27 Construction 275 days
28 Start On Site 0 days 30/11
29 Works on site 255 days
30 Completion 0 days 16/12
Page 1
Page | 55
Page | 56
APPENDICES
1. Services report
2. Structural Report
3. Roof condition Report
4. Acoustic Report
5. Cost Report
6. Survey Drawings
7. Accessibility Report
Page | 57
Page | 58
APPENDI X 1 S ERVICES R EP OR T
Page | 59


  

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  
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    
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 


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
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
  

 
 
  

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 
 
          
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
 
                
  
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  
            


            

            

     

 
 
   

 
 
  

 
   
   
 

   
 
 
 
 

  
     
    
     
     
     
     
   
    
 
   
 
    
   

   

    

  
  
  
  
  
  
     
     
    
 
         




     

 
 
   

 
           
 
  

 
 
               
  
  
 

 

              

             


             


 



 

               
              



 


 

 
             


 





 


     

 
 
              


 

 



 

            


  

 

 






 

               






 

 

 



             
            


               





     

 
 
   

 
 
               
               
 
  
                
               
 



 

              


               


 







 
 
 


 

             


             



 

 

               
            


     

 
 
  
 
  
 
              
 
                
 
 
           
            
 
            
             
 
  
               
            
 
 
           
            
 
 
  
           
              
             
 
           
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
             
  
 
               
               
  
 
 
 
              
               

     





 

           



 

            






 

            


 

             


 






 

 


           
            
         
            
         
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BUILDING SERVICES DESIGN FACILITIES MANAGEMENT/COMMISSIONING ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
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      
      
         
      
APPENDI X 2 S TRUCT U R AL R EP OR T
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DRAFT DRAFT
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 
 
 
 

 
 


 

   
   

   
  
  

 
 


 
 


 

 
 















  
   
DRAFT DRAFT
 
 











 
 
 
 



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 
 
 
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
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
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 
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 












 


 
 
 

  








     

     
DRAFT DRAFT
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 
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












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




     

     
DRAFT DRAFT
   

 
 
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
  








 













 





  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 

 




















     

     
DRAFT DRAFT
  
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











 





  
  

 
 

 

 


 

 



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 
 
     

     
DRAFT DRAFT

 

 
 
 
 

 


     

     
DRAFT




 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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  

  
APPENDI X 3 RO O F CO ND IT ION R EP OR T
The rainwater outlets generally appear to be clear and free running although one outlet grating is missing.
Roof Condition Report
The roofing felt in the vicinity of the main RWO on the lower flat roof is deteriorating.
Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, Access to the roof is via an opening rooflight in the flat roof area which is accessed from storage room below by a
Refurbishment of the Conference Centre, Queen Street, standard portable ladder (not fixed so there is a health and safety issue to be considered).
Edinburgh
2.00 OPTIONS FOR THE ROOF
Date: 2.01 OPTION 1: RETAIN THE EXISTING ROOF FINISH

03 March 2014
It would be counterproductive to leave the existing roof while undertaking significant internal improvement works so
Number:
for that reason this option is not recommended. However, it is likely that the roof would remain waterproof for a few
RCP/RPT 0001/-
more years assuming it is maintained regularly.
Notwithstanding the above, it is recommended that the existing rooflights are replaced with new double glazed non-
CONFERENCE CENTRE ROOF REMEDIALS REPORT
fragile type rooflights (for H&S reasons); replace the missing outlet grating; replacing the covering to the duct
1.00 INTRODUCTION enclosure; make good the joints in the copings and improve the ladder access to the roof.
This report provides information on the condition of existing conference centre roof and also gives details of the 2.02 OPTION 2: OVERCOAT THE EXISTING ROOF FINISH
options available for remedial works to extend the life of the existing roof.
Retain the existing roof finish but overcoat it with a liquid plastics waterproof coating to give a minimum 20 year
1.01 GENERAL guarantee.
In addition, replace the existing rooflights with double glazed non-fragile rooflights; replace the missing outlet grating;
The roof over the auditorium was inspected on 12 February 2014. The roof comprises a lower area of flat roof over a
remove the covering to the duct enclosure and coat with liquid plastics; make good the joints in the copings; remove
storage room below; main roof over the lecture theatre which rises in a series of four zones each at a different pitch
the mortar from the flashings and re-point in sealant and improve the ladder access to the roof.
(21.50, 140, 30 and 1.50) and a flat roof over the plant area behind the lecture theatre.
The roof was installed in the mid-1980s and is understood to consist of three layers of bituminous felt on 30mm cork 2.03 OPTION 3: INSULATE AND OVERCOAT THE EXISTING ROOF FINISH
insulation and channel reinforced woodwool slabs spanning between steel roof trusses/beams. This is a standard roof
Retain the existing finish and install insulation to the bulk of the roof area. Do not fit insulation around the perimeter.
construction for the 1980’s era.
Overcoat with a liquid plastics waterproof coating to give a minimum 20 year guarantee.
1.02 CONDITION Please note that the parapet flashings are not high enough to accommodate an increased roof build up therefore
insulating the complete roof area will involve changing upstand heights, increasing coping heights and relocating cavity
The roof was found to be in good condition for its age, appears to be generally sound but the inspection revealed a
trays. This would be a major element of work causing major disruption within an occupied building.
number of not unexpected maintenance/lifespan issues to be resolved. Notwithstanding the current condition the roof
is long overdue for replacement. It is not unusual to have to replace flat roofing within 10 years and this roof has been In addition, remove the existing rooflights; increase the upstands around the rooflights; install double glazed non-fragile
in place for 30 years! rooflights; remove the existing roof rainwater outlets and provide new roof outlets; remove the covering to the duct
enclosure and insulate and coat with a liquid plastics waterproof coating; make good the joints in the copings and
There is evidence of ponding on some parts of the roof but this is not particularly excessive.
remove the mortar from the flashings and re-point in sealant and improve the ladder access to the roof.
The perimeter upstands are generally about 150mm above roof level however there are some areas where this is much
less. 2.04 OPTION 4: REMOVE THE EXISTING ROOF FINISH, INSULATE AND PROVIDE A NEW WATERPROOF COATING
150mm is the recommended minimum height of an upstand. Remove the existing bituminous felt roof finish and install insulation to the bulk of the roof area. Do not fit insulation
around the perimeter. Overcoat with a liquid plastics waterproof coating to give a minimum 20 year guarantee.
The flashing over the upstand is pointed in mortar and this is showing some signs of deterioration.
Please note that the parapet flashings are not high enough to accommodate and increased roof build up therefore
The perimeter walling is in facing grade concrete blockwork with concrete copings. There don’t appear to be any
insulating the complete roof area will involve changing upstand heights, increasing coping heights and relocating cavity
movement joints however this does not appear to have affected the integrity of the walling.
trays. This would be a major element of work causing major disruption within an occupied building.
The joints in the copings are showing signs of deterioration.
In addition, remove the existing rooflights; increase the upstands around the rooflights; install double glazed non-fragile
There is a duct enclosure in one corner and this appears to have been lined in a single ply membrane. This is in poor rooflights; remove the existing roof rainwater outlets and provide new roof outlets; remove the covering to the duct
condition and single ply membranes and bituminous materials are not compatible. enclosure and insulate and coat with a liquid plastics waterproof coating; make good the joints in the copings and
remove the mortar from the flashings and re-point in sealant and improve the ladder access to the roof.
The rooflights on the flat roof area are pyramidical single glazed (probably GRP or similar) and have deteriorated
considerably and should be considered to be a fragile material.
RCP/RPT 0001/- ROOF CONDITION REPORT Page 1 of 4 RCP/RPT 0001/- ROOF CONDITION REPORT Page 2 of 4
o o
Michael Laird Architects Limited. Registered Office: 5 Forres Street Edinburgh EH3 6DE Registered in Scotland N SC255196 Michael Laird Architects Limited. Registered Office: 5 Forres Street Edinburgh EH3 6DE Registered in Scotland N SC255196
3.00 RECOMMENDATIONS
To proceed with Option 3 as part of the proposed improvement works as this will give improved waterproofing
performance, provide a guaranteed product and will greatly improve the thermal performance of the roof.
Please note however that thermal performance calculations require to be completed to show that there is no
condensation risk in retaining the existing bituminous felt roof covering.
If there is an un-acceptable condensation risk, Option 4 would be preferred.
4.00 DRAWINGS OF THE EXISTING ROOF
5.00 PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE EXISTING ROOF

6.00 DISTRIBUTION
Issue No. 1 04 March 2014 Information RCP/RPT 0001/- DE/RM
RCP/RPT 0001/- ROOF CONDITION REPORT Page 3 of 4 RCP/RPT 0001/- ROOF CONDITION REPORT Page 4 of 4
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Michael Laird Architects Limited. Registered Office: 5 Forres Street Edinburgh EH3 6DE Registered in Scotland N SC255196 Michael Laird Architects Limited. Registered Office: 5 Forres Street Edinburgh EH3 6DE Registered in Scotland N SC255196
Page | 82
APPENDI X 4 ACO UST IC R EP OR T
Page | 83
SANDY BROWN SANDY BROWN
Consultants in Acoustics, Noise & Vibration
Version Date Comments Author Reviewer

A 4 Apr 14 Laurence Haslam Craig Simpson
14053-R01-A
4 April 2014
Royal College of Physicians

Lecture Theatre
Acoustic report
55 Charterhouse Street, London EC1M 6HA T: +44 (0)20 7549 3500

Piccadilly House, 49 Piccadilly, Manchester M1 2AP T: +44 (0)161 771 2020 post@sandybrown.com
16 West Terrace, South Queensferry EH30 9LL T: +44 (0)131 331 2020 www.sandybrown.com
Sandy Brown Associates LLP

Registered in England & Wales No. OC 307504 Registered Office: 55 Charterhouse Street, London EC1M 6HA
Page 2 of 13 14053-R01-A REPORT

Consultants in Acoustics, Noise & Vibration Consultants in Acoustics, Noise & Vibration
Summary Contents
Sandy Brown Associates have been engaged to advise on acoustic issues relating to the
refurbishment of the main lecture theatre at the Royal College of Physicians, Queen Street,
1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 5
Edinburgh. The intent is to optimise the acoustic quality of the space for lectures and similar
speech related events. 2 Description of Existing finishes ............................................................................................. 5
Measurements have been made to assess the existing acoustic quality of the lecture theatre, 3 Factors to achieve good acoustic quality .............................................................................. 7
and the refurbishment proposals have been reviewed.
4 The existing acoustic quality ................................................................................................. 7
Preliminary recommendations have been given for ceiling and wall finishes. Once a specific
seat type has been selected, and wall and ceiling fishes agreed in principle, the areas of specific 5 The proposals ...................................................................................................................... 10
acoustic treatment required to the ceiling and walls may need further adjustment.
6 Recommendations for acoustic treatment in the lecture theatre...................................... 10
The mechanical services systems should be designed so that the total noise level in the lecture
theatre does not exceed NR 25. 7 The sound system................................................................................................................ 11
Comments are also made with regard to the sound system, and sound insulation to and from 8 Other Issues......................................................................................................................... 13
adjoining areas.
Page 3 of 13 14053-R01-A REPORT Page 4 of 13 14053-R01-A REPORT

1 Introduction Figure 2 The existing lecture theatre
Sandy Brown Associates have been engaged to advise on acoustic issues relating to the
refurbishment of the main lecture theatre at the Royal College of Physicians, Queen Street,
Edinburgh. The intent is to optimise the acoustic quality of the space for lectures and similar
speech related events.
Laurence Haslam and Shona Logie of Sandy Brown Associates visited the existing lecture
theatre on 30 January 2014 to carry out an inspection and measure the existing reverberation
times and background noise levels.
The following report gives the procedure and results of these measurements, and provides
outline advice on measures required.
2 Description of Existing finishes

Photographs showing the existing finishes are given in Figures 1 and 2.
Figure 1 The existing lecture theatre
The lecture theatre is ‘fan’ shaped, with raked seating. Seats are lightly upholstered, with tip-
up bases, and writing tablets. The seating arrangement gives good sightlines.
The ceiling comprises suspended mineral fibre tiles, with a woodwool slab roof above.
The floor at the dais or stage is of timber, elsewhere the floor is finished with a commercial
grade thin pile carpet.
Walls are hard plastered, and the rear wall (with plantroom beyond) has a carpeted surface.
A speech reinforcement sound system is installed, with a speaker cluster located behind an
acoustically transparent grillage in the suspended ceiling (located above the front area of the
stage), and individual loudspeakers (delayed) mounted at ceiling level towards the rear of the
lecture theatre to serve the rearmost seating.

3 Factors to achieve good acoustic quality 4.1 Reverberation time (RT) measurements
The prime requirement in a lecture theatre is to achieve optimum conditions for good Third octave band RT’s were measured at a number of representative positions in the lecture
intelligibility of speech. The key factors are: theatre (unoccupied) using a loudspeaker sound source located on the stage.
• Low reverberation time, but not so low that the room is un-naturally 'dead', and The results are shown plotted in Figure 3.
disconcerting for the person speaking. The reverberation time is the time taken for the
Figure 3 Reverberation time measured in the existing lecture theatre (unoccupied)
sound to decay naturally in the space once the source has stopped. Typically, an ideal
reverberation time for speech would be in the region of 0.9 seconds or lower for a
room of this volume, in the unoccupied space.
• Sound must ideally appear to come from the person speaking, with some contribution
from room reflections.
• Even distribution of sound. The acoustic should not change unduly from one area to
another.
• Lack of acoustic defects - there should be no echoes or focussing effects.
• The sound reaching the listener should be of satisfactory loudness.
• Good direct sound. This has implications on seating layout, raking and sightlines. The
sight lines from the listener to the source should not be impeded and distances should
be as short as possible.
• Good early reflections. Surfaces, including walls close to the person speaking are
important to providing early reflections.
• Feedback to speaker - some sound should be reflected back to the person speaking so
that he has a sense of how the room is responding.
• Low noise levels from plant, ventilation, lighting and other equipment serving the
space, or located within the room. The total noise level from all sources (ie ventilation
noise, road traffic noise ingress etc) should not exceed 30 dB LAeq. This equates to a
Noise Rating value of NR 25.
4 The existing acoustic quality

In order to assess the acoustic conditions in the existing lecture theatre, acoustic
measurements were taken with a Bruel & Kjaer type 2260 Modular Precision Sound Analyser
Investigator, using the BZ7204 Building Acoustics System Software and Enhanced Sound
Analysis Software BZ7202.
The room was unoccupied for these measurements.
The arithmetic mean of the 500Hz, 1kHz and 2kHz RT values is 0.7 seconds in the unoccupied
space, which complies with the requirement of 0.9 seconds or less.
The reverberation time would be expected to reduce further with occupancy.

4.2 Subjective Assessment 5 The proposals

For natural unamplified speech, speech intelligibility was judged to be good throughout the The gross shape of the room is not being changed, but the proposals are to refurbish as
seating areas. follows:
A speech reinforcement system is needed in this space, particularly for quiet or inexperienced • Removal of the mineral fibre tile ceiling and fitting of a new ceiling. A sloping
speakers. When the existing speech reinforcement system was used, speech intelligibility was plasterboard soffit above the stage, plus a series of ‘floating’ ceiling rafts are proposed.
also judged to be good, but there were two issues: This will also incorporate a new lighting arrangement
i) For the first three rows of seating, the sound emanating from the overhead • New wall finishes where required
loudspeaker cluster gives a strong sense of false localisation in that the sound is • Replacement seating and carpet. A thin pile commercial grade carpet is envisaged.
obviously coming from overhead rather than from the person speaking at the The seating capacity is 267
lectern. • Possible replacement of the central control room arrangement
ii) For the person speaking at the lectern, there is a strong delayed sound or • Possible use of a curtain to create a more intimate space for smaller events
reflection, which is somewhat off-putting. This is not apparent when the sound
system is switched off, and thus delayed sound from the overhead speaker cluster
(either direct or via the ceiling void) is responsible rather than delayed room 6 Recommendations for acoustic treatment
reflections. The seats and their acoustic absorption will have a major effect on the reverberation time, and
acoustic quality of the space. In this preliminary assessment we have assumed lightly
4.3 Background noise level upholstered seats having the following absorption coefficients (per m2 of area occupied by the
The lecture theatre is mechanically ventilated, and in addition has a fan heater (located above seating):
an entrance door) and ceiling mounted air-conditioning units towards the rear of the lecture
theatre. The plant room at the rear of the lecture theatre also houses a fan serving the Octave band centre frequency (Hz)
adjoining foyer which is audible in the lecture theatre.
125 250 500 1k 2k 4k
The background noise levels in the lecture theatre were measured as follows:
Seat absorption coeff 0.36 0.47 0.57 0.62 0.62 0.60
All plant running NR 37 – 45 (per m2)
Fan heater off, with air-conditioning units, NR 34 - 45
lecture theatre ventilation and foyer fan
running It is important that the seats be acoustically absorbent, in order that the reverberation time in
the lecture theatre varies less when the space is sparsely occupied.
Fan heater and air-conditioning units off, NR 23 - 32
lecture theatre ventilation and foyer fan When the actual seats have been selected, their absorption may differ from the above figures
running (the seat manufacturer should be asked to provide test data). If so, the recommended areas of
acoustic treatment given below may need to be adjusted to compensate.
Lecture theatre ventilation only NR 22 - 27
Based on the above we recommend the following finishes:
The fan heater and ceiling mounted air conditioning units are too noisy, and we assume that
these would not normally be operated during lectures or noise sensitive events. A range of • Stage area to have timber floor surface as existing
noise levels is quoted - the noise levels were highest at positions closest to the noisy heater or • The remaining circulation, aisle and seating areas to be carpeted with a thin pile
air-conditioning unit commercial grade carpet.
• The soffit above the stage, and above the rear aisle behind the seating to be
With the fan heater and ceiling mounted air conditioning units switched off, the foyer fan in
plasterboard.
the plantroom is audible, and the resultant sound level exceeds the optimum criterion of NR
• The front two rows of ceiling rafts to be acoustically reflective eg plain plasterboard
25 at some seat positions. The noise levels were highest nearest to the plantroom.
(see Figure 4)

• The rear two rows of ceiling rafts to be acoustically absorbent, eg Sto Silent panel with Figure 4 Proposed acoustic treatment locations
Sto Silent Top finish, having the following absorption performance:
Octave band centre frequency (Hz)

125 250 500 1k 2k 4k
Acoustic treatment to
Absorption 0.50 0.65 0.60 0.55 0.55 0.65 rear side walls
coeff
(per m2)
Acoustically reflective,
eg plasterboard
http://www.sto.co.uk/115981_EN-Seamless_System-Panel_with_Top.htm Acoustically absorbent,

eg Sto Silent
This equates to an area of approximately 90m2 of Sto Silent panels. See Figure 4.
• In addition, a total of 100m2 of wall panels, located on the rear wall, and the rearmost
Acoustic treatment to
parts of the side walls. These could comprise a slatted timber finish over mineral wool rear wall
faced with an acoustically transparent fabric, or acoustic treatment (notionally 40 –
50mm thick) faced with an acoustically transparent fabric.
We can advise further if required as the next design stage.
7 The sound system

For natural sounding speech reinforcement, it is important that the loudspeakers are located
in the optimum positions to give the impression that the sound is coming from the person
speaking. In some respects this might be difficult, but instead of an overhead cluster, it would
be preferable to locate loudspeakers at a lower level, on each side of the stage, in line with, or
slightly forward of the lectern.
Directional loudspeakers should be used to direct the sound to the audience rather than
towards reflective wall /ceiling areas.
As previously, if additional speakers are required to supplement the sound to the rear seating
areas, these may need to be delayed.

SANDY BROWN
8 Other Issues
• The new ventilation system for the lecture theatre should be designed to achieve
ambient noise levels in the space not exceeding NR25.
• Care should be taken to ensure that noise and vibration from plant in the plantroom at
the rear of the auditorium is minimised as far as practicable. Any penetrations through
the separating wall need to be sealed, and if necessary fitted with cross talk
attenuators. If noise levels in the plantroom are likely to exceed NR60, it may be
necessary to upgrade the sound insulation of the separating wall.
• The woodwool slab roof over the lecture theatre is lightweight and has comparatively
low sound insulation. This has implications for noise break-in from loud external
events. Conversely, there could be a concern over noise breakout if there are
residential or other noise sensitive premises in the vicinity, and loud events such as
loud amplified music are envisaged. However, it would be difficult, if not impracticable
to upgrade - we can advise further if required.
• The sound insulation between the lecture theatre and the foyer is limited by the door.
As a minimum, consideration should be given to upgrading the door, but to achieve
significant improvement would require a lobbied door arrangement. Without a lobbied
door, management over simultaneous use will be required.
• We recommend that consideration be given to the installation of acoustic finishes in
the foyer, so as to limit reverberant noise, and achieve a more pleasant acoustic
quality in the space.
• If the current control room is to be removed, and equipment located in the lecture
theatre, care should be taken to ensure that noise from the equipment is adequately
controlled (eg equipment racks and projector fans etc) so that the overall criterion of
NR25 is not exceeded. This may be difficult.
• If a curtain is provided to subdivide the lecture theatre to provide a more intimate
space for smaller events, we suggest a wool serge type curtain (which is acoustically
absorbent). The sound system should be zoned so that coverage of the seating behind
the curtain can be switched off when not required.
Page 13 of 13 14053-R01-A REPORT

APPENDI X 5 COST R EP OR T
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Thomas & Adamson
www.thomasandadamson.com
Edinburgh / Glasgow / London / Manchester / Kiev / Abu Dhabi
The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh 02/04/2014

Queen Street, Edinburgh
Feasibility Estimate No 3
Summary
Financial Summary & Analysis GIA (m2) £/m2 £
Amount for Main Entrance platform lift N/A N/A 67,500
Amount for Reception 70 1,036 72,500
Amount of Ground Floor Meeting room 21 550 11,550
Amount for Basement Toilets 82 2,107 172,800
Amount for Basement Meeting Rooms 55 1,252 68,850
Amount for Bridge Link at Reception N/A N/A 103,400
Improved access to No10/ Great Hall N/A N/A 256,200
Amount for Covered Courtyard/ Atrium 160 2,742 438,640
Amount for Exhibition Foyer (Ground Floor) 320 1,246 398,600
Amount for Lecture Theatre 362 1,696 613,945
Budget for AV installation per RCPE estimate 400,000
Amount for lecture theatre toilets (Ground Floor) 50 2,550 127,500
c/f 2,731,485
R:\Projects\Edin\QS\E8613QS RCPE Conference Facility\RCPE Budget Cost Estimate 3
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Thomas & Adamson


Summary
Financial Summary & Analysis GIA (m2) £/m2 £
c/f 2,731,485
Amount for kitchen and servery (Ground Floor) 58 1,683 97,600
Amount for Conference Centre Roof 586 151 88,220
Allowance for repairs and upgrading to existing timber doors 25,000
Allowance for signage 25,000
Allowance for furniture 30,000
Sub-total 2,997,305
Amount of Preliminaries - 13% N/A N/A 389,650
Amount of Contingency - 10% N/A N/A 338,696
Amount of Cost Estimate 3,725,651
Inflation from 1st Quarter 2014 to 3rd Quarter 2015- 6.3% 235,000
SAY 3,960,000
Option for Hybrid Power Generator/ PV N/A N/A 108,000
Additional AV equipment 30,000
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Summary
Commentary on Costs
This budget cost estimate gives an indication of cost for the proposed works in the region of £3.900 Million. The scope of works
and specification has still to be fully defined and therefore this cost estimate should be considered indicative only.
The drawings provided are not to a stated scale and all quantities have been interplotated from known measurements, as such the quantities are
indicative only and should not be relied upon for any purpose other than this budget estimate
Basis of Cost
Costs are current at 1st Quarter 2014 with provision of 6.3% inflation to a tender in 3rd Quarter 2015
Michael Laird Architects feasibility study received 10 March 2014
RSP Mechanical and Electrical Services Condition Report
RSP Mechanical and Electrical Services Feasibility Study dated 24 March 2014 and accompanying sketches
RSP email dated 22 February 2014
Budget costs have been obtained from McKellar Office Furniture Ltd for supply of the auditorium seating within a range of £300 to £500 per seat
Budget estimate for AV installations provided by RCPE in amount of £400,000 with optional additional equipment shown below the line.
Assumptions
Allowance has been included for automatic opening ventilators to the atrium for smoke clearance and natural ventilation.
A budget allowance of £50,000 has been included for Fire Engineering measures to the new atrium/ courtyard.
An allowance for backup power generator and solar PV panels is included.
Exclusions
Asbestos removal- if any
Sprinkler Installations
Professional Fees for Design and Management of the Works- Suggested Budget £320,000
Statutory Fees for Planning, Building Warrant and Listed Building Consent- Suggested Budget £30,000
Surveys- Suggested Budget £20,000
Legal Fees for Contract and Appointments
VAT
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Thomas & Adamson


Main Entrance Platform Lift

Quantity Unit Rate Cost
Downtakings & Demolition
Forming opening in stone parapet wall to Queen Street for new platform lift Item 5,000
Alllowance for forming lift pit; excavation, blockwork and tanking Item 5,000
Allowance for sandstone paving to entrance platt and steps; raise levels to suit door threshold Item 5,000
Allowance for altering existing balustrades and lamps; create gate Item 5,000 20,000
Electrical Installations
Allowance for electrical supply to platform lift 1 no 2,500 2,500 2,500
Lift Installations
Platform lift with gates and barriers 1 no 45,000 45,000 45,000
Carried to Summary 67,500
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Thomas & Adamson

Ground Floor Reception

Strip out finishes and services installations to existing meeting rooms 70 m2 50 3,500
Alter existing window openings to form door opening for new bridge link 2 No 1,000 2,000 5,500
Internal fit-out
Allowance for internal fit out of reception area 50 m2 900 45,000
Allowance for refurbishing existing corridor to form Reception entrance 20 m2 600 12,000
Budget allowance for joinery fitments Item 10,000 67,000
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Ground Floor Meeting Room

Strip out finishes and services installations to existing office 21 m2 50 1,050 1,050
Internal fit-out
Allowance for upgrading finishes and services installations 21 m2 500 10,500 10,500
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Thomas & Adamson

Basement Toilets
Strip out existing finishes and services installations 82 m2 50 4,100
Allowance for structural alteration; take down walls and slappings Item 20,000 24,100
Internal fit-out
Allowance for internal fit out of WC's 45 m2 2,500 112,500
Allowance for internal fit out of Cloakrooms 20 m2 750 15,000
Allowance for internal fit out of corridor 17 m2 600 10,200
Allowance for refurbishing stair between Basement and Ground Floors Item 6,000
Allowance for cloakroom fitments Item 5,000 148,700
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Thomas & Adamson


Basement Meeting Rooms

Strip out existing finishes and services installations 55 m2 50 2,750
Re-open previously built up window openings including new sash & case windows 4 No 2,000 8,000 10,750
Internal fit-out
Allowance for internal fit out of Meeting rooms 47 m2 900 42,300
Allowance for refurbishing stair between Basement and Ground Floors Item 6,000 53,100
Mechanical & Electrical Services

Relocate existing electrical plant Item 5,000 5,000
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Bridge Link at Reception

Removing existing bridge link and making good stone Item 3,000
Infill existing single door opening where bridge link removed with sandstone rubble 1 no 1,500 1,500 4,500
Substructure
Form lift pit Item 3,500 3,500
Superstructure
Structural steelwork (60 kg/m2) and concrete slab forming link floor 8 m2 250 2,000
Steel feature stair at change in level Item 10,000
Lift shaft structure and walls; Basement to First Floor Item 15,000
Glazed balustrade to upper floors 4 m 600 2,400
Allowance for floor and wall finishes 8 m2 500 4,000
Allowance for bridge link to 1st Floor auditorium Item 7,500 40,900

Diverting existing electrical services Item 3,000 3,000
Allowance for balustrade feature lighting Item 4,000 4,000
Lift power supplies 1 no 2,500 2,500 2,500
c/f 58,400
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Improved Access to No 10
Bridge Link at Reception b/f 58,400

Lift Installations
8 person passenger lift, 3 stops 1 no 45,000 45,000
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Thomas & Adamson

Downtakings & Alterations
Remove existing link bridge and make good sandstone walls Item 3,000
Build up existing door opening to form window where link removed; including new Item 2,500
sash & case window (Ground Floor)
Take down flat roof at First Floor level for insertion of new structure; approx 5m x 4m on plan Item 500
Form opening in existing external wall for door to lift lobby; including fire rated timber door Item 5,000
to match existing (First Floor)
Alter existing window opening to form door oepning to new Lounge (First Floor) Item 1,000
Strip out existing finishes and services installations (Basement, Ground and First Floors) 90 m2 50 4,500
Allowance for structural alterations at Ground level to form new lift lobby and link to Item 10,000
Atrium/ Courtyard (Ground Floor)
Allowance for structural alterations at Basement level to form new lift lobby and link to Item 20,000 46,500
Atrium/ Courtyard (Basement)
Substructure
Form lift pit Item 3,500 3,500
c/f 50,000
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Thomas & Adamson


Improved Access to No 10 b/f 50,000

Superstructure
Structural steelwork (60 kg/m2) and concrete slab forming link floor (First Floor) 30 m2 250 7,500
Lift shaft structure and walls; Basement to First Floor Item 15,000
Steel link bridge with glazed floor and balustrade (First Floor) Item 30,000
Glazed balustrade at first floor landing 2 m 600 1,200
Allowance for balustrade lighting feature Item 4,000 57,700
Internal fit-out
Allowance for fitting out new link (Basement, Ground and First Floor) 60 m2 900 54,000
Allowance for internal fit out of Lounge (First Floor) 30 m2 500 15,000
Allowance for internal fit out of Cloaks (Ground Floor) 30 m2 500 15,000 84,000

Diverting existing electrical services Item 3,000 3,000
Allowance for balustrade feature lighting Item 4,000 4,000
Lift power supplies 1 no 2,500 2,500 2,500
Lift Installations
8 person passenger lift, through car; 4 stops Item 55,000 55,000
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Thomas & Adamson

Covered Courtyard/ Atrium

Removing covered walkway down to ground floor level, approx 30m x 4m high Item 10,000
Lifting existing paving slabs, reducing levels, disposing 100 m2 60 6,000
Removing existing glazed roof at lecture theatre 20 m2 60 1,200 17,200
Substructure
Allowance for foundations to new steelwork Item 5,000 5,000
Superstructure
Suspended ground floor slab including support steelwork- say 60 kg/m2 60 m2 300 18,000
Feature stair between basement and ground floor, balustrades and handrails 1 no 25,000 25,000
Glazed balustrade to covered courtyard 26 m 600 15,600
Ground bearing slab to courtyard base; hardcore, reinforced concrete, insulation 100 m2 75 7,500
Glazed monopitch roof to courtyard; with support steelwork 150 m2 1,000 150,000
Extra for opening lights 2 no 1,500 3,000
Lightweight roof infill where former rooflight removed 20 m2 175 3,500
Allowance for structural alterations to suit new roof layout Item 10,000
Allowance for drainage to roof and alterations to existing below ground drainage Item 10,000
Allowance for stonework repairs to external walls Item 5,000 247,600
c/f 269,800
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Thomas & Adamson


Covered courtyard (cont.)
Covered Courtyard/ Atrium b/f 269,800

Internal fit-out
Allowance for wall, floor and ceiling finishes to Ground Floor and Basement level 160 m2 500 80,000 80,000
Services
Underfloor heating; including pipework 160 m2 55 8,800
Ventilation; actuators and controls Item 6,000
Small power; allowance 160 m2 15 2,400
Lighting installations; including wiring 160 m2 70 11,200
Data installations; allowance Item 2,000
Fire alarms 160 m2 14 2,240
CCTV; allowance Item 3,000
Budget allowance for fire engineering measures to covered courtyard Item 50,000
BMS; allowance 160 m2 20 3,200 88,840
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Thomas & Adamson

Exhibition Foyer
strip out of internal finishes and M&E to existing space 320 m2 50 16,000
forming new steps at change in levels, 3nr steps Item 5,000
forming new ramp and partial height partition, 12m x 1.4m wide Item 2,500 23,500
Internal fit-out
raising floor level to match existing exhibition foyer levels 70 m2 50 3,500
allowance for internal finishes and fit out 320 m2 750 240,000
allowance for fixed furnishings and fittings Item 25,000
allowance for BWICS for lighting in waffle slab coffers 82 m2 50 4,100 272,600
Services
Connect AHUs to LTHW pipework Item 5,000
DX units; serving AHUs Item 7,500
supply and extract ventilation 320 m2 95 30,400
replace existing DBs and sub-mains Item 2,000
small power installations 320 m2 20 6,400 51,300
c/f 347,400
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Exhibition foyer
Exhibition Foyer b/f 347,400

Services (cont.)
mechanical power installations 320 m2 6 1,920
cleaner's power supplies 320 m2 2 640
lighting installations; including wiring 320 m2 70 22,400
lighting controls; allowance 320 m2 15 4,800
feature lighting; allowance Item 3,000
emergency lighting uplift 320 m2 8 2,560
data installations; allowance Item 2,500
fire alarms 320 m2 14 4,480
BMS; allowance 320 m2 20 6,400 51,200
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Lecture Theatre
Strip out of internal finishes and M&E installations 362 m2 50 18,100
Remove existing seats and dispose 300 no 25 7,500 25,600
Internal fit-out
Allowance for internal fit out 362 m2 600 217,200
Extra for acoustic ceiling panels; 50% allowed 181 m2 75 13,575
Extra timber lined acoustic wall panels 225 m2 100 22,500
Allowance for podium desk Item 5,000
Lecture theatre seats; leather finish with desk per Actiu budget cost 300 no 550 165,000
Allowance for retractable curtains to divide spaces; as Triple E budget Cost Item 25,000
Budget allowance for AV equipment to auditorium Item Excluded 448,275
c/f 473,875
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Thomas & Adamson


Lecture theatre (cont)
Lecture Theatre b/f 473,875

Services
DX units and pipework; serving AHUs Item 7,500
connect AHUs to LTHW pipework Item 5,000
supply and extract ventilation 362 m2 95 34,390
replace main switchboard; including temporary works Item 20,000
replace existing DB and sub-mains Item 4,000
small power installations 362 m2 20 7,240
mechanical power supplies 362 m2 6 2,172
cleaner's power supplies 362 m2 2 724
lighting installations; inculding wiring 362 m2 55 19,910
lighting controls; allowance 362 m2 15 5,430
feature lighting; allowance Item 10,000
emergency lighting uplift 362 m2 8 2,896
fire alarms 362 m2 14 5,068 127,830
c/f 601,705
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Thomas & Adamson

Lecture theatre (cont)
Lecture Theatre b/f 601,705

Services (cont.)
pre-installation commissioning checks Item 3,000
BMS; allowance 362 m2 20 7,240
BWICS; allowance Item 2,000 12,240
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Thomas & Adamson


Lecture Theatre Toilets

Strip out internal finishes and M&E to existing toilets and staff room 50 m2 50 2,500 2,500
Internal fit-out
Allowance for fit out of new WC's 50 m2 2,500 125,000 125,000
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Thomas & Adamson

Kitchen and Servery

Strip out internal finishes, fixtures and M&E to existing servery area 74 m2 50 3,700 3,700
Internal fit-out
Allowance for fit out of new kitchen, servery and stores 65 m2 900 58,500
Budget allowance for kitchen/servery catering equipment Item 30,000 93,900
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Thomas & Adamson


Conference Centre Roof Replacement

Superstructure
Remove existing roof coverings 590 m2 10 5,900
Single ply roofing to existing roof above conference centre including insulation, upstands 586 m2 120 70,320
and flashings
Budget allowance for repairs/alterations to timber decking/structure Item 10,000 86,220
Services
Testing and reconfiguration; lightning protection installations Item 2,000 2,000
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Thomas & Adamson

Backup power system

Superstructure
Allowance for structural supports etc Item 10,000 10,000 10,000
Services
Hybrid power generator 1 no 35,000 35,000
Solar PV panels; allowance Item 25,000 25,000
Switchgear, cabling etc Item 10,000 10,000
Cooling to AHU plant room Item 7,000 7,000 77,000
Sub-total 87,000
Amount of Preliminaries - 13% 11,310
Amount of Contingency - 10% 9,831
Page | 114
APPENDI X 6 S URV EY DR AWINGS
Survey Notes
Grid:
Levels:
Notes
Topographical Survey Legend

BUILDINGS AND WALLS GENERAL INFORMATION
FENCE STYLES AND DESCRIPTIONS
OVERHEAD FEATURES
WATER FEATURES
ROADS
RELIEF AND VEGETATION
STREET FURNITURE
LEVEL AND HEIGHT INFORMATION
INSPECTION CHAMBERS AND PIPES
SURVEY INFORMATION SIGNS
GEOTECHNICAL INFORMATION
Rev. Date Description
MALCOLM HUGHES
LAND SURVEYORS
Chartered Land Surveyors
65 Cross Street, Sale, Manchester
M33 7HF, Tel: 0161 905 1265
www.malcolmhughes.co.uk
survey@mhls.co.uk
Accreditations
Datum 55.000m Datum 55.000m
Queen Street View (1) (Including Basement Level)
ED
RE
GI
ST ER
FS 14126
Client
MICHAEL LAIRD ARCHITECTS

5 FORRES STREET
EDINBURGH, EH3 6DE
Project
ROYAL COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS

QUEEN STREET
EDINBURGH, EH2 1JQ
Drawing Title
ELEVATION
Drawn By Survey Date

AG 12/03/14 FEBRUARY 2014
Checked by Scale
BM 12/03/14 1/100
Drawing No Revision
16153/EL3
Survey Notes
Grid:
Levels:
Notes
Topographical Survey Legend

BUILDINGS AND WALLS GENERAL INFORMATION
FENCE STYLES AND DESCRIPTIONS
OVERHEAD FEATURES
WATER FEATURES
ROADS
RELIEF AND VEGETATION
STREET FURNITURE
LEVEL AND HEIGHT INFORMATION
INSPECTION CHAMBERS AND PIPES
SURVEY INFORMATION SIGNS
GEOTECHNICAL INFORMATION
MALCOLM HUGHES
LAND SURVEYORS
M33 7HF, Tel: 0161 905 1265
survey@mhls.co.uk
Accreditations
Queen Street View (2) (Street Level)
ED
RE
GI
ST ER
FS 14126
Client

5 FORRES STREET
EDINBURGH, EH3 6DE
Project

QUEEN STREET
EDINBURGH, EH2 1JQ
Drawing Title
ELEVATION

Checked by Scale
BM 12/03/14 1/100
Drawing No Revision
16153/EL4
Survey Notes
Grid:
Levels:
General Notes
Location Plan
MALCOLM HUGHES
LAND SURVEYORS
M33 7HF, Tel: 0161 905 1265
survey@mhls.co.uk
Accreditations
ED
RE
GI
STE R
FS 14126
Client

5 FORRES STREET
EDINBURGH, EH3 6DE
Project
Back Court (2)
QUEEN STREET
EDINBURGH, EH2 1JQ
Drawing Title
ELEVATION

Checked by Scale
BM 12/03/14 1/100
Drawing No Revision
16153/EL2
APPENDI X 7 ACCES S I BILIT Y R EP OR T
Page | 129
ACCESSIBILITY AUDIT REPORT FOR 8-13 QUEEN STREET, EDINBURGH
AUGUST 2013
CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION 1
2.0 METHODOLOGY 3
3.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 4

EQUALITY ACT 2010 4.0 REFERENCES 9
ACCESSIBILITY AUDIT REPORT (SUMMARY)
8-13 QUEEN STREET, EDINBURGH
Prepared by:
Brian Taggart MSc Dip OSH CMIOSH NRAC Consultant

Adams Consulting Group
Gresham House
45 West Nile Street
Glasgow
G1 2PT
Tel: 0141 221 7771
Fax: 0141 221 7770
Email: brian.taggart@adamsconsult.co.uk
August 2013
ROYAL COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS OF EDINBURGH ROYAL COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS OF EDINBURGH
ACCESSIBILITY AUDIT REPORT FOR 8-13 QUEEN STREET, EDINBURGH ACCESSIBILITY AUDIT REPORT FOR 8-13 QUEEN STREET, EDINBURGH
AUGUST 2013 AUGUST 2013
1.0 INTRODUCTION
General
Adams Consulting Group were appointed as Access Consultants to carry out an outline
accessibility review of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh property at 8-13 Queen It should be noted that the Equality Act does not define “reasonable” and the word “disabled”
Street, Edinburgh. covers a wide range of disabilities.
This outline report is based on an inspection carried out by Brian Taggart on 21st August 2013 The requirements of the Act are determined by the requirements of people with disabilities and it
which also involved discussions with the management of the site on how the buildings and can be anticipated that the requirements will change and be extended in the future. The
grounds operate and what services are offered to the public. guidance provided in this report therefore is to comply with the current Approved Codes of
Practice, which is subject to revision and BS8300:2009.
The Equality Act 2010, which replaced the Disability Discrimination Act 2005, applies to all
organisations who provide a service to the public or a section of the public (Service Providers). It Whereas this audit generally refers to the requirements of the Equality Act 2010, it also includes
also applies to anyone who sells goods or provides facilities. It applies to all services, whether or comments on any inherent health and safety issues that were observed during the audit.
not a charge is made for that service.
The Equality Act 2010 also applies to employers and work places regardless of whether this is a
fixed location or involves various locations.
The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh is considered a service provider under the
Equality Act 2010, therefore they have obligations with reference to the following sections:-
Section 3 – Services and Public Function
This section of the Equality Act protects people from discrimination when being provided with a
service on the basis of a protected characteristic. The relevant characteristic for this exercise is
disability.
In discrimination the law prohibits:-
 Direct Discrimination
 Indirect Discrimination
 Discrimination by Association
 Discrimination by Perception
 Harassment
 Victimisation
Service providers may have to make reasonable adjustments which may include the removal or
alteration of physical barriers and review of policies, practices and procedures. This is an
anticipatory duty.
Section 5 – Employment
Employees must not unjustifiably discriminate against current employees or job applicants on the
basis of a protected characteristic and may have to make reasonable adjustments to their
employment arrangements and for premises to ensure a person with a disability is not
disadvantaged.
The protected characteristic of disability applies to a person who has a physical or mental
impairment that has a substantial and long term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal
day to day activities.
2.0 METHODOLOGY 3.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This Accessibility Audit has been carried out with reference to Sections 3 of the Equality Act Accessibility Grade of Building / Site Grade
2010 (Services & Public Function) only. The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh stipulated
that this outline disability access review should be restricted to public access areas of the A Wholly accessible;
premises only.
D
B Satisfactory, minor works required;
The Equality Act places a duty on employers and service providers to make “reasonable
adjustments” to premises or services to overcome barriers that disabled employees or visitors C Poor. Major alterations required;
may face. The accessibility audit was undertaken without the opening up of any structures,
fixtures or fittings and no assessment has been made as to the suitability of electrical or D Significant issues which severely restrict access and service operations.
mechanical services. For the purposes of this report the definition of “disability” and “access” are Major capital works required.
as defined in the Equality Act 2010. The recommendations within this report have been
prioritised as follows:-
The following recommendations are the key “Priority 1” actions required to be implemented by
Priority 1 – High (Name of Client) Management:-
This involves significant barriers to access which may prevent a disabled person accessing the
service. This category may require reasonable adjustments to be made to overcome significant Ref Recommendation Priority Category Cost Band
physical barriers to access which make the provision of the service impossible or unreasonably
1 Approach Routes & Street Furniture
difficult. Significant Health & Safety issues are also categorised as high priority. High Priority
recommendations should be actioned as soon as is reasonably possible. 1.6 The rear entrances (2no.) which are accessed via Thistle 1 Management 0
Street North East Lane have traditional cobbled stone finish
Priority 2 – Medium which may make access more difficult for pedestrian
This relates to desirable improvement to the accessibility of the building or service, which can visitors with reduced mobility accessing at these points.
normally be reasonably achieved through refurbishment and alteration schemes and/or through The cobbles will also make wheelchair access more difficult
general maintenance or management procedures. Medium priority works should be carried out and could present a health & safety hazard. The cobbled
over the next 1-3 years where feasible. finish is likely to be a protected material and therefore it is
unlikely that the Planners will allow these to be removed or
Priority 3 – Low covered. It is therefore recommended that in the longer
This relates to items which do not prevent access to the building or service but may have been term management do not use these doors as entry points
constructed or provided to previous standards which do not meet current “best practice”. These for members of the public (refer to Section 3 for additional
items should generally be improved as part of a future refurbishment. recommendations in this regard)
2 Car Parking
Cost Band
0 Nil There is a small staff car parking area within Thistle Street 1 Management 0
1 £500 or less North East Lane, however parking generally is not offered
2 £501 - £2500 to the public and therefore this is not likely to result in
3 £2501 - £5000 discrimination occurring. However in the short term (until
4 £5001 - £10000 such time as the key access issues to the front of the
5 £10001 - £20000 building are addressed), management should consider
6 £20001 - £50000 providing accessible parking to visitors during events to
7 £50001 or more allow them to park close to the rear access doors which will
remove the impact of the cobbled surface within the lane.
Category of Works 3 Entrances
When visiting the Royal College of Physicians of
Minor works Refurbishment works of a minor nature Edinburgh, the public will generally access from the Queen
Major works Refurbishment works of a major nature Street entrances at No. 9/10 and No. 11. Both these
Management The solution required is a management issue entrances (and the additional entrances at No. 8 and
Equipment The solution relates to an item of equipment No.13) have steps on approach and are inaccessible to
Signage The solution involves signage provision some visitors such as wheelchair users and persons with
Maintenance The solution is a maintenance issue severely reduced mobility. This prevents the college from
Training Staff training is required offering the same or similar level of access to all visitors
and presents a risk of discrimination occurring due to
Ref Recommendation Priority Category Cost Band Ref Recommendation Priority Category Cost Band
potential “less favourable treatment” afforded to some
visitors who require to access the premises through the • Increased/improved communication with the public
rear fire exit doors (Thistle Street North east Lane). advising them of the access restrictions when
Ultimately it will be the courts that would decide on whether visiting and providing information on how the
there has been a material breach of the Equality Act and access will be provided (i.e. level rear entrance/
whether the college had made reasonable adjustments to wheelchair stair lift etc).
improve accessibility over the period. The courts, of course
• Provide training to staff (who interact with disabled
would take into consideration the many existing constraints visitors during events) on disability awareness &
at the site including the Grade A listed entrances on Queen
etiquette. This helps communication and invariably
Street which the planners would not allow to be materially
leads to a more positive experience for people with
altered to improve accessibility. Nevertheless, the courts a disability. This is important given the access
would also consider the size of the building, the extent of
restrictions at the site and the need for
services offered to the public and the resources available to management to assist disabled visitors at this
the college in determining if enough was done to remove or
location.
minimise the barriers to access.
• Creation of a suitably defined and more
aesthetically pleasing route through the Janitor’s
It is clear that due to the historical nature of the building store/mail room leading to the main hall. Possibly
(Grade A listed) and the space restrictions within the partition off the route to hide the stored materials
pavement area on Queen Street, it would not be possible to and thereby removing the stigmatic effect of
install a permanent ramped entrance into the building. In arriving and transferring through the “tradesman’s
addition the considerable change in level between the entrance”.
pavement and the internal ground floor level would prohibit
• Replacement of the “sit-on” stair lift at the other
the use of an intermittently deployed portable ramp as the
rear entrance stair with a wheelchair stairlift
gradient would be too great. In addition, even if the Queen
(should the public use this stair regularly).
Street main entrances could be made accessible there
would be major works involved in providing suitable access
internally to the main public areas (conference centre & The above should be carried out within the next 3-6
main hall) due to the level changes involved. months.
It is clear therefore that to provide an accessible entrance Longer term

point into the building from the Queen Street elevation is
challenging and would involve major internal and external As stated above, the poor accessibility at the site does
alterations to the building. present an increased risk to the college and whilst the 1 Major works 6
current arrangements may be considered reasonable as a
Recommendation short term solution, there is a requirement to put in place
longer term plans to improve accessibility. These longer
term plans should involve sourcing and fully implementing a
Short term
solution that will allow all visitors to access the building from
the Queen Street and as close as possible to the main
The college management has taken steps to provide entrance doors. The following options could be considered:-
alternative entrance points at the rear of the building 1 Minor works 3
(Thistle Street North East Lane) for people who use
wheelchairs or have severely reduced mobility and cannot • Providing a wheelchair platform lift within the
negotiate the main entrance steps. In addition wheelchair external lightwell which will provide access from the
stair lifts have been deployed internally to allow disabled Queen Street pavement down to the lower ground
visitors to access the conference centre and the main hall floor level at either No. 11 or No. 13. This will
as well as their ancillary facilities. This is not an acceptable provide access into the building via the lightwell
long term solution as the access route afforded to disabled entrance doors (No. 11 may require a small ramp to
visitors may be considered less favourable when compared be installed also). This in turn provides access
to those who access from the main entrance. However in through the internal corridors to the external void
the short term there are a number of adaptation that can be area between the existing building & the conference
made to improve accessibility at these points and these can centre. A further platform lift could be constructed at
be summarised as follows:- this area and linked into one of the two link bridges
Ref Recommendation Priority Category Cost Band Ref Recommendation Priority Category Cost Band
which in turn will provide level access to the 6 Vertical Circulation
conference centre. Note: We recently received
There is currently an accessible route from the main hall to 1 Major works 7
Planning Permission & Historic Scotland Consent
the conference centre via the rear fire escape stair
for a similar lightwell platform lift in Glasgow
(wheelchair stairlift), however this is not seen as a viable
although there is no guarantee that this would be
long term solution and could be perceived as less
permitted at this location.
favourable treatment afforded to disabled visitors. By
• An alternative access solution would be to install an providing an accessible platform lift between these two
access ramp within the lightwell providing ramped floors, disabled visitors could then transfer between the
access from the pavement to the main entrance conference centre and the main hall/ library etc directly
door at No.11 or No.13. Kenny Reid stated that without having to travel to the rear fire escape stair lift. This
there is a precedent in the area for this type of is a more convenient and inclusive route and if carried out
access arrangement and therefore the planners in conjunction with the main entrance alterations
may be agreeable to this. Although the ramp will recommended above, the main public access spaces would
provide access to the main entrance there will still be fully accessible and would avoid the requirement to
be a requirement to provide access down to the link access from the rear of the property.
bridge internally which provides access to the
conference centre. This would require to be The main internal ornate access stair leading to the main 1 Minor works 0
achieved by either wheelchair stair lift of platform lift hall has a red carpet and offers no contrasting nosings to
(which would involve significant structural assist those visitors with a visual impairment. It would be
alterations). difficult to achieve this visual contrast as the finishes are
part of the historic fabric of the building however this should
be given some thought during any future refurbishment
Entrance doors (where possible) should be automatically which will involves replacing the carpet finish to the stairs.
operated via motion sensors or push pad controls to ensure
disable visitors can access easily. In addition signage 7 Toilet Provision
should be provided at the principal entrances indicating The accessible toilet within the conference centre is too 1 Minor works 4
what accessible facilities are available within the facility small and does not provide sufficient turning space for a
(accessible toilets, induction loops etc.) wheelchair user to gain access to the facilities easily. In
addition the grabrails are not suitable for unassisted use.
This toilet should be enlarged to 2200mm x 1500mm and
4 Reception/ Counter Areas & Lobbies
be fitted with suitable grabrails and facilities as per BS
The reception area should have a fixed or portable 1 Equipment 1 8300. This may involve structural alterations.
induction loop for visitors with a hearing impairment.
The first floor accessible toilet is too narrow and requires to 1 Minor works 2
Signage should also be prominently displayed to advertise
have the pipe boxing removed to increase width and
the induction loop.
provide suitable turning circle for wheelchair users. In
A fully accessible reception desk should be provided which 1 Minor works 2 addition the colour/tonal contrast is poor between the
incorporates a lowered section and suitable knee recess fitments and the background (all white). Other minor
should wheelchair access be provided to this area as part alterations are required including a full height mirror and
of a future proposal additional grab rail at the sink.
5 Horizontal Circulation 8 Facilities/ Staff Issues
There is generally good horizontal circulation within the 8.2 The college should ensure that they provide portable 1 Signage/ 0
conference centre and within the main hall etc. The induction loops and associated signage for meetings and management
colour/tonal contrast between floor and walls is generally seminars which occur in the various rooms within the
good also which assists visitors with a visual impairment. building. In addition management should ensure that any
The short ramp leading to the accessible toilet on the first 1 Minor works 2 written information available to members of the public are
floor (near library) is too steep and required to be reduced available in alternative formats (large print or Braille) The
in gradient (min 1:12). Hand rails should also be fitted each key is to advise the public that these formats are available if
side of new ramp to assist visitors with a disability. required.
Generally all horizontal circulation doors heavily used by 1 Minor works 3 Management should consider implementing training in 1 Management 0
members of the public should be either held open (linked to disability awareness & etiquette for staff who’s duties
fire alarms if required) or automatically operated via motion involve interacting with members of the public. This is very
sensors or push pads. important when dealing with large numbers of the general
ACCESSIBILITY AUDIT REPORT FOR 8-13 QUEEN STREET, EDINBURGH
AUGUST 2013
Ref Recommendation Priority Category Cost Band

public and ensures that any interaction with members of the
public with a disability is carried out sensitively.
9 Means of Escape
9.2 Management should carry out a full review of their strategy 1 Management 0
for fire and emergency evacuation for people with a
disability. This is particularly important as the conference
centre and main hall attract large groups of visitors and it
should be anticipated that there will be more than one
wheelchair user or person with reduced mobility on the
premises at any one time. Management should consider
implementing Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans
(PEEP’s) and General Emergency Evacuation Plans
(GEEP’s) for the facility.
7.0 REFERENCES
 BS 8300: 2009 – Design of Buildings to meet the needs of disabled people
 Scottish Building Standards
 Equality Act, 2010
 BS 9999: 2008 – Fire Safety in the Design, management and use of buildings
 BS 5588-9: 1999 – Means of Escape for Disabled People.
This Accessibility Audit Report is produced and issued entirely without prejudice and on the basis
of disabled people including those with mobility, hearing and visual impairments or other
disabilities such as manual dexterity, learning, mental illness, speech, continence or physical
coordination. Provisions for disabled people will invariably assist other groups such as children,
parents with children, pregnant mothers, older people and those with cultural and language
differences.
Date ____________________________________
Auditors Signature ____________________________________
Approved By (Director) ____________________________________
For and on behalf of

Adams Consulting Group
Brian Taggart MSc Dip OSH CMIOSH NRAC Consultant

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Feasibility Report

for the Refurbishment of

The Royal College of Physicians,

ORDNANCE SURVEY, EDINBURGH, 1853

In undertaking this feasibility study MLA employed the services of

AERIAL VIEW OF NOS. 8-13 QUEEN STREET, HOME OF RCPE

This feasibility report is hopefully the first of many stages on

The purpose of the feasibility report was to provide RCPE with

1.2 Improving circulation around the building including disabled access to

1.3 Segregating circulation for users of the Conference Centre from

1.4 Refurbishment of Conference Centre including;

The brief is therefore to do the following:

In general, all aspects of the design should reflect good practice in

THE COURTYARD GARDEN, 8 QUEEN STREET

THE CULLEN ROOM, 8 QUEEN STREET

ORDNANCE SURVEY, EDINBURGH, 1877

HISTORIC MAPS SHOWING THE EXTENSION TO

THE GREAT HALL

THE LIBRARY EXTERNAL VIEW OF THE LIBRARY FROM THE COURTYARD

NO. 13 NO. 13 NO. 13

3. Alteration of basement rooms in 13 Queen Street to ELEC. PLANT

form lavatory/cloak areas.

Street and existing Conference Centre

openings in south wall of townhouses.

entrance to Great Hall AREA AREA

STRUCTURE OFFICE EXTERNAL AREA

EXISTING GROUND FLOOR EXISTING FIRST FLOOR

VOID VOID VOID

VOID VOID PLATT PLATT PLATT

STRUCTURE OFFICE TOILETS FUNCTION SPACE

CIRCULATION MEETING RECEPTION LIBRARY

SUPPORT CONFERENCE EXTERNAL AREA

R EAR EL EV AT ION - PROPOS ED I N TERVEN TI ON S

The main conflict is between the use of the conference centre

NOS 9 & 10 QUEEN STREET, THE PRINCIPLE ENTRANCE FOR RCPE

makes a dramatic improvement to circulation around the MALE WC

LIBRARY FOYER DISCUSSION SEATING AREA

VOID VOID VOID

VOID VOID PLATT PLATT PLATT

MOVEMENT - GROUND FLOOR

THISTLE STREET N.E. LANE

STAIR TANKS ST STAIR

VOID CHAIR WORKSHOP/

CULLEN DAVIDSON SIR

• Discriminatory disabled access to the rear of the

It recommends the creation of a new disabled access at the

EXTERNAL INACCESSIBLE SPACE

INTERNAL INACCESSIBLE SPACE

THISTLE STREET N.E. LANE

DISABLED ACCESS & DISABLED ACCESS &

STAIR TANKS ST STAIR

DIAGRAM SHOWING DISABLED ACCESS EXISTING DISABLED ACCESS IS POOR

EXISTING LAVATORY FACILITIES GROUN D FLOOR PLAN

F IRS T F L O O R P LA N B ASEM ENT PLAN

2.3.7 Existing Services

TOP: CONFERENCE CENTRE ROOF AS EXISTING

We believe that the proposed illustrated will provide RCPE with

MAIN ACCESS CONFERENCE

ORIGINAL CONCEPT DIAGRAM

PLANT LECTURE THEATRE

TENANT SPACE TENANT SPACE

EXISTING STONE NEW GLAZED LIFT PROVIDING ACCESS

ACCESS BETWEEN NEW