INCA EWI Case Study: Brooklyn’s Close, Pembrokeshire

ATEB Group’s Retrofit Programme Transforms Homes at Brooklyn’s Close with PAS 2035-Compliant External Wall Insulation

A major decarbonisation programme delivered by ATEB Group Housing Association, in partnership with CARDO and Wetherby Wall Systems, has transformed homes at Brooklyn’s Close in Clarbeston Road, Pembrokeshire. Funded through the Welsh Government’s Optimised Retrofit Programme, the project forms part of a wider commitment to improving the energy efficiency, comfort and long-term sustainability of homes across West Wales.

The scheme was developed to provide residents with warmer, more energy-efficient homes while ensuring full compliance with PAS 2035 retrofit standards. ATEB Group required a certified, fire-safe external wall insulation solution capable of significantly improving thermal performance whilst maintaining the character of the existing properties.

Working closely with the client, Wetherby Wall Systems designed a robust external wall insulation solution that not only enhanced the thermal performance of the homes but also delivered a striking visual transformation. Installed by CARDO, the system was carefully selected to meet the demanding requirements of modern retrofit projects, providing long-term durability, fire safety and improved energy efficiency.

The completed properties were finished using Wetherby’s HECK 4S Silicone Render system, creating a vibrant and contemporary appearance that complements the beautiful Pembrokeshire surroundings. A carefully selected palette of modern colours, chosen by the residents themselves, helped create a distinctive and attractive development while ensuring customers felt engaged in the transformation of their homes.

Overcoming Challenges in Rural Wales

As with many projects located in West Wales, challenging weather conditions tested the project team throughout the installation period.

Heavy rainfall created significant programme pressures and threatened to delay works. However, through careful planning, close collaboration and the expertise of installer CARDO, the project was successfully delivered on schedule while maintaining the highest standards of workmanship.

The scheme also presented several technical detailing challenges. Particular attention was required around raised disabled-access ramps and other existing building features to ensure continuity of insulation whilst not negatively affecting the aesthetics . Wetherby’s technical team worked closely with both the client and installer throughout the programme, providing bespoke detailing solutions and project-specific technical drawings to overcome these challenges.

This collaborative approach ensured the system could be installed efficiently while maintaining compliance with retrofit requirements and preserving accessibility for residents throughout the works.

Delivering Improved Thermal Performance

A key objective of the project was to improve the thermal efficiency of the building envelope and help reduce energy consumption for residents.

Prior to refurbishment, the properties achieved an external wall U-value of approximately 0.45 W/m²K. Following the installation of the Wetherby external wall insulation system, this figure was reduced to 0.22 W/m²K, representing a significant improvement in thermal performance.

This enhancement will help residents enjoy warmer homes, improved comfort and reduced heating demands, supporting ATEB Group’s wider ambitions to tackle fuel poverty and improve living standards across its housing stock.

Enhancing Homes and Communities

Beyond the thermal improvements, the project has delivered a substantial visual transformation.

The application of Wetherby’s HECK 4S Silicone Render has transformed the appearance of the properties, creating a vibrant and contemporary finish with lasting visual impact. A selection of modern colours, chosen by the residents themselves, helped create an attractive development that enhances the homes while giving customers a genuine sense of ownership in the finished result.

The completed scheme demonstrates how a whole-house retrofit approach can successfully combine energy efficiency, fire safety, aesthetics and resident wellbeing. Through the installation of a robust, thermally efficient and PAS 2035-compliant external wall insulation system, Brooklyn’s Close now provides residents with homes that are better prepared for a low-carbon future.

Voices from the Project

Allyn Pritchard, Senior Property Investment Manager at ATEB Group, said:

“Speaking on behalf of everyone at ATEB Group and, importantly, our customers, we’re thrilled with the project and the continued support of Wetherby. The properties look fantastic and the dramatic reduction in the walls’ U-value will make a huge difference to our customers’ energy bills and living standards.”

Why Brooklyn’s Close Deserves an INCA Award

Brooklyn’s Close demonstrates the power of quality retrofit to improve lives. Through a combination of significant thermal improvements, PAS 2035-compliant design, outstanding collaboration and a striking visual transformation, the project delivers lasting benefits for residents while supporting Wales’ ambitious decarbonisation objectives. Designed and installed to the highest retrofit standards, it stands as an excellent example of how external wall insulation can transform homes, communities and living standards.