Prior to the nationwide project roll out, the proposed design was piloted at sites in Letchworth and Hertford to fully assess the overall effect. An element of flexibility was included in the design to enable some variation in buildings where the standard specification was not suitable.

Wherever possible lighting was replaced on a point-for-point basis, retaining existing LED fittings where they were deemed to be of sufficiently high quality. Most of the work was carried out at night to avoid disruption to gym members and staff, which made the installs exceptionally difficult as the premises needed to be clear for the following day’s business.

Whilst the cost savings vary from one building to another, the Nuffield Health City Fitness & Wellbeing Centre installation exemplifies the magnitude of savings that are being achieved, delivering a projected project cost payback within 3.3 years. The payback period takes account of energy and maintenance savings, as well as reduced payments under the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme.

This facility was also a good example of the flexibility of the design approach. Large amounts of exposed brickwork within the building meant more extensive use of warm white colour temperatures in front of house areas compared to other sites.