Ecclesall Road, A Sustainable Showcase

Our Ecclesall Road Simply Food store in Sheffield was built not only using sustainable materials and features, but it operates sustainably too. In fact, we're proud to say we received a Considerate Constructors Scheme* score of 37.5 out of 40, plus it was awarded an 'excellent' BREEAM** rating. So, what exactly makes this store so special?

Getting the building basics right

The bricks we used for Ecclesall Road were reclaimed from an old mill, all the timber in the building was FSC certified and all the construction waste produced during the build was recycled.

Running the store the right way

Since Ecclesall Road opened back in April 2011 we’ve been assessing the performance of every sustainable feature. A lighting strategy combining efficient LED’s, natural daylight, sun pipes and control sensors has led to a 20% reduction in lighting energy. The rainwater harvesting tank provides water for the toilets and green ‘living wall’ and has helped reduce water use by 30% compared to other Simply Food stores. Heating and hot water are provided by heat expelled by the fridges which brings energy consumption just below an average Simply Food store and we are now working to reduce this even further. The staff and customers love the store too with satisfaction levels exceeding 80%. 

We were just as green outside: a sedum roof and the living wall act as habitats for various wildlife. We put bird boxes around the perimeter wall and planted 62 different types of plants. 

To help our customers, we’ve put electric car charging points in the car park and real time local transport information via LED screens in store. 

The store has also made its mark by winning a number of awards.

Putting something back

As with all our stores, Ecclesall Road is part of the local community. We’re delighted that the store created over 50 jobs in the area. We also worked with Groundwork to develop a rundown riverside site nearby, in Hickmott Road, to create a peaceful natural retreat for all residents and visitors. 

Ecclesall Road was a real milestone and valuable in learning about sustainable building for the future. If you’re in the area, why not go and take a look? And if it’s your local store, enjoy shopping there! 

* Considerate Constructors Scheme is a non profit-making, independent organisation founded by the industry to improve its image. Sites and companies that register with the Scheme are monitored against a Code of Considerate Practice.

**BREEAM: the leading and most widely used environmental assessment method for buildings.