Project Snapshot
Project Type: Residential Apartments
Location: Kennaway Estate
Apartments Protected: 51
Areas Covered: Apartments, lobbies and communal spaces
Standard: BS 9251: 2021
System Type: Independent tank and pump arrangement
Purpose: Residential life safety fire suppression
Project Overview
Appointed by mechanical subcontractor Integral Solutions Ltd, Millharbour Sprinklers was engaged to design, supply and install a compliant residential sprinkler system across Blocks A, B and C of the development.
The scope included protection of 51 apartments alongside communal areas such as corridors and shared access spaces, as required under BS 9251: 2021 for residential buildings in the UK.
The project required a robust life safety solution that achieved full regulatory compliance, aligned with the building’s operational needs and integrated efficiently within an active construction programme.
The Challenge
Delivering residential sprinkler systems in multi-occupancy developments requires careful balance between performance, compliance, coordination and cost.
Key requirements included:
- Fast, reliable life safety fire suppression
- Full compliance with BS 9251: 2021 and building control expectations
- Minimal visual impact within finished residential spaces
- Cost efficiency through accurate pre-construction design
- Installation aligned precisely with the construction programme
The system incorporated an independent tank and pump arrangement. Tank capacity was calculated based on the most hydraulically favourable area operating for the required duration, ensuring compliance without unnecessary oversizing.
Pumps were hydraulically calculated specifically for the building’s needs, providing a tailored solution rather than a generic specification. This approach ensured dependable system performance while maintaining cost discipline.
In residential environments, aesthetics matter. Close coordination with the project architects ensured sprinkler heads and pipework were positioned sensitively, maintaining design intent while achieving full compliance.
Our Solution
Following receipt of the architect’s tender drawings, our in-house design team undertook detailed coverage assessments and hydraulic calculations to produce a precise and compliant system design.
By investing time at pre-start stage, we were able to:
- Optimise pipe sizing and material specification
- Eliminate unnecessary overuse of materials
- Maintain strict compliance with British Standards
- Deliver accurate, commercially efficient pricing
Early-stage design interrogation is critical in residential sprinkler installation projects. It enables better coordination, reduces risk on site and avoids costly redesign during construction.
Our team worked closely with other trades to ensure seamless integration of the sprinkler system within ceiling voids and service zones. Careful sequencing and communication supported smooth programme progression and avoided installation clashes.
All works were quality controlled and fully tested in accordance with British Standards. Our philosophy remains consistent across every project: do the job once and do it right.
Outcome
The Kennaway Estate now benefits from a fully compliant residential sprinkler system providing reliable life safety protection across all apartments and communal areas.
Delivered on programme and designed specifically for the building’s requirements, the system achieves regulatory compliance, operational reliability and minimal visual impact.
For developers, contractors and mechanical partners seeking experienced specialists in residential sprinkler installation across the UK, Millharbour Sprinklers provides technically robust, commercially considered solutions tailored to each scheme.
