P+HS Architects' design for Harrogate's Regional Agricultural Centre

P+HS Architects has submitted a planning application to deliver a new 1,716m² Regional Agricultural Centre on the site of the long established and recognised Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate on behalf of client the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.

The proposals by P+HS Architects have been developed to create a rural enterprise that will support the Yorkshire Agricultural Society in achieving its objectives and the agricultural community in the region. The new building, on the south side of the 250 acre showground comprises a total of 865m² of office space, a farm shop of 710m² (of which 267m² is retail space) plus an 80-seater café (141m²). There will also be 43 car parking spaces.

From the outset P+HS developed a design strategy which would allow maximum opportunity to be taken of sustainable principles, creating a showcase building which minimises the impact on the environment and anticipates changes in legislation for natural ventilation and reduced CO₂ output.

Site studies determined the overall shape and position of the building on the site, designed to avoid south sun and consequent overheating, but allowing the prevailing wind to be used to maximise natural ventilation opportunities and ensuring that natural light penetrates to all parts of the building.

Careful consideration was given to recycled materials and the use, wherever possible, of natural products [sheep’s wool insulation] for both construction [timber frames] and for future running. The farm shop and café roof will have a green sedum roof and the complex will be heated by biomass boiler.

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