Guildford Cathedral Undergoes Major Renovation Programme

Project Overview

Guildford Cathedral went through a major refurbishment programme jointly funded by the local community and Heritage Lottery Fund. Essential repairs included the removal of materials containing asbestos, improvements to the roof and public facilities, installation of a new sound and lighting system, and renovation of the organ.

Challenge

During the refurbishment work it was necessary to switch off the Cathedral’s permanent heating system. Therefore, the challenge to RVT Group was to provide an affordable heating solution to ensure the continuation of regular services, choir practices and visitor access, without any risk to health from cold temperatures. It was also necessary to maintain a suitable ambient temperature to preserve the existing furnishings which had to remain.

Solution

Given there were two main areas to heat within the Cathedral – one of which was approximately 80 metres from the nearest entrance/exit – and noise needed to be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing daily activities taking place, RVT Group was clear in its solution.

Specialist crew established a 200kW oil-fired heater with 80 metres of duct fed to the furthest area, and a 150kW oil-fired heater with 18 metres of duct running to the closer area, enabling warm air to be distributed in both spaces for business to continue as normal. This solution provided an approximate five degree rise in each area.

And crucially, this meant that RVT met the brief of providing a temporary heating solution that was affordable, continual and quiet.

"The standard of service from start to finish was amazing. The Sales rep was very helpful and knowledgeable on the products available to suit our needs at Guildford Cathedral.… The heat that came out was amazing… you could stand under the pipe duct which was 10m above, but have to move after 5 minutes as it was so warm. Overall performance very good and would definitely recommend RVT Group to anyone wanting a great service. Well done RVT." - Lawrence Kirk, Project Manager