East Lothian Council has been awarded the Carbon Trust Low Carbon Building Award 2008 for the design and project specifications of the new Windygoul Primary School, Tranent.

Jim Mather, Minister of Enterprise, Energy and Tourism presented the award to Cllr Paul McLennan from East Lothian Council at the Scottish Energy & Environment Conference (SEEC), held in Glasgow earlier this month.

Now in its second year, the Carbon Trust Low Carbon Building Award aims to recognise the significant carbon saving potential that exists within the building sector, specifically looking at environmental impact, particularly energy demand and emissions, sustainability and the quality of the occupant experience.

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John Stocks, Manager of Carbon Trust Scotland, commented: "Although the entries for the 2008 award were all of a very high calibre, Windygoul Primary School was the clear winner by unanimous decision.

"The building clearly demonstrates what can be achieved with good planning and communication amongst stakeholders, taking into consideration the impact the building has on both its users and the environment."

The judging panel was particularly impressed by the care the Projects Design team at East Lothian had given to the design of the building, with specifications to ensure pupils benefit from a healthy learning environment that makes use of natural ventilation and minimises energy usage.

Some of the contributing factors to the award winning entry were the highly insulated building envelope using natural materials, environmentally friendly features such as a green 'living roof' of sedum, which attenuates roof water run-off as part of the sustainable drainage system, providing rooftop habitat for bees and insects, and solar panels integrated into the glass conservatory style roof of the dining hall to provide energy to help heat water and generate electricity.

The judging panel was chaired by John Stocks and comprised representatives from the Carbon Trust, the Centre for the Built Environment and the Scottish Government.

(JM)