A new all-purpose commercial innovation centre for energy efficient building designs, products and services has been launched.

The CMS Innovation Hub, located in Cumbernauld, North Lanarkshire, will showcase the latest energy saving products and devices for the building of homes and workplaces, which have been produced by construction and supply firms.

The facility will allow architects, builders, specifiers, public and private sector buyers and contractors to meet with manufacturers and have access to those products that will reduce energy use.

The 10,000sq ft centre has been built in the grounds of CMS Window Systems' Lanarkshire HQ and is itself energy efficient. It was previously a derelict warehouse with a low energy rating and was in danger of demolition. It has since been transformed and been fitted with external "stone wool" insulation blocks, highly thermal efficient windows, plus an air source heat pump with a VRV Intelligent Heat Recovery System which recovers heat from one area of the building and transfers it to another. As a result, the building's energy rating has moved from 'G' to an A-rating.

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In addition to the exhibition space, there is also a seminar room to accommodate up to 90 people, as well as break-out meeting spaces. CMS Window Systems has also said they hope the facility will be used by local schools, colleges and community organisations to discuss issues around climate change and sustainability.

Andy Kerr, Managing Director of CMS Window Systems and the driving force behind the Innovation Hub, said: "The Innovation Hub is showcasing an extensive range of energy-efficient products which, taken together, have helped turn a dilapidated G-rated structure, fit for demolition, into an A-rated building.

"We are far from finished and our aim is to achieve an A Plus rating, which means it will be carbon neutral."

Among the companies represented at the centre are Yale, Rockwool, Sealco Scotland, Daikin UK, Saint Gobain, Sheerfame and Metal Technology.

(JP/MH)