Primrose Hill Retrofit, Stockton-on-Tees

A £1.7m whole-house retrofit programme was delivered to improve the energy efficiency of 60 homes in Stockton. Using a fabric-first approach, we combined external wall insulation, new windows and doors, loft insulation and associated external works to reduce energy demand, tackle fuel poverty and support the decarbonisation of existing properties.

In line with the Government’s social housing requirements, the works improved the energy efficiency of homes to EPC Band C.

Delivered in Spring 2023, the Primrose Hill retrofit scheme upgraded 60 properties through a range of PAS 2035-compliant energy efficiency measures. Partial demolition and rebuilding of boundary walls were required to enable external wall insulation to be installed. Additional works included the replacement of windows and doors, new loft insulation, insulated meter boxes and extensive external alterations to accommodate the retrofit installations.

We coordinated a fully-accredited PAS 2030 and TrustMark-compliant supply chain, supported by dedicated document control systems that enabled real-time monitoring and quality assurance throughout the project.

A robust compliance process was central to delivery, while pre- and post-installation air permeability testing was carried out on every property to measure performance improvements and inform ventilation strategies.

The programme provided a valuable testing ground for future estate investment and regeneration strategies, helping to demonstrate the economic, environmental and social benefits of large-scale housing retrofit.

The scheme significantly improved the energy performance of 60 existing homes, supporting Thirteen Group's ambition to achieve EPC Band C and above across its housing stock ahead of future government requirements. By combining refurbishment works with retrofit upgrades, the project minimised future disruption for residents while maximising value from planned investment programmes.

The project also strengthened Esh's retrofit capability through the delivery of one of its first schemes under the newly launched Esh Retrofit Solutions division. The successful integration of design, coordination, compliance management and installation demonstrated a complete end-to-end retrofit delivery model, providing a framework for future decarbonisation programmes across the region's housing sector.

The varied property types and existing site conditions required several innovative solutions during project delivery. Surveys identified cavity walls that were unsuitable for new insulation due to historic concrete fill which meant exploring alternative approaches to achieve compliance.

Restricted detailing around bay windows meant standard external wall insulation systems could not be applied, leading the team to develop bespoke chamfered insulation designs which preserved glazing while maintaining thermal performance.

Additional challenges included low damp proof course levels, existing resident-installed features such as decking and fencing, concrete entrance steps and single-skin outhouses. Through careful design development, sequencing and resident engagement, Esh adapted each solution to maintain programme certainty, improve thermal performance and minimise disruption to occupants throughout the works.

The Primrose Hill retrofit programme delivered benefits beyond improving homes, creating opportunities for local people and supporting the regional economy. More than £1.71 million was spent with County Durham businesses, alongside a further £90,000 invested across the Tees Valley supply chain, helping to maximise local economic impact.

The scheme also supported skills development through apprenticeships, work experience and training opportunities. Three apprentices joined the project, gaining hands-on experience in plastering and joinery while studying at colleges across the North East. In addition, 50 apprentice weeks were completed on site, alongside dedicated industry placements to help young people access careers in construction.

Working in partnership with Thirteen Group, the team also explored wider community initiatives focused on resident wellbeing, including community safety workshops and a £2,200 donation to support a Community Centre redecoration project.