Melin Energy Consultants were appointed to deliver the BREEAM assessment for the Space Systems Operations Facility (SSOF) at Spaceport Cornwall, located at Cornwall Airport Newquay.
As part of the wider Centre for Space Technologies development, the facility was designed to support the next generation of UK space and satellite operations, providing specialist office accommodation, operational control facilities, collaborative workspaces and technical environments for organisations operating within the rapidly expanding aerospace and space technology sectors.
This was far more than a conventional office building. The facility forms part of one of the UK’s most ambitious innovation projects, helping establish Cornwall as a nationally significant hub for space technology, satellite operations and advanced engineering. The development contributes to the infrastructure supporting the UK’s commercial space ambitions and has become a key component of the country’s growing space ecosystem.
The Challenge
Projects of this nature present unique sustainability challenges.
The building needed to provide highly functional operational spaces capable of supporting mission-critical activities, whilst simultaneously meeting demanding sustainability objectives and BREEAM requirements. Achieving environmental performance targets within a specialist operational facility requires careful coordination between the design team, contractors and sustainability consultants from the earliest stages of the project.
In addition, the aspirations for the building reflected the innovative nature of the wider Spaceport Cornwall programme. Sustainability was considered an integral part of the development, with the project team seeking to demonstrate that cutting-edge technological infrastructure could be delivered alongside strong environmental performance.
Our Approach
From the outset, Melin Energy Consultants worked closely with the project team to identify opportunities to maximise BREEAM performance and secure as many credits as practicably achievable within the constraints of the development.
Our role extended beyond simply undertaking the assessment. We provided ongoing guidance throughout the design and construction process, helping the team understand the requirements of individual credits, identifying opportunities for improvement and ensuring evidence was gathered efficiently as the project progressed.
By maintaining regular communication with the wider project team, we were able to streamline the assessment process, reduce administrative burdens and ensure sustainability objectives remained embedded within key project decisions.
This collaborative approach enabled the team to make informed decisions throughout the development while balancing operational requirements, programme constraints and budget considerations.
Outcome
The project successfully achieved a BREEAM Very Good rating, satisfying the planning requirements for the development and demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainable design and construction.
Whilst the original aspiration was to achieve BREEAM Excellent, the final result reflects the practical realities often associated with highly specialised buildings, where operational requirements must be carefully balanced against sustainability objectives.
More importantly, the project delivered a high-quality, future-focused facility that supports one of the UK’s most exciting and innovative industries. The completed building now provides a base for organisations involved in satellite operations, space technologies, data services and advanced engineering, helping to drive economic growth, innovation and inward investment within the region.
Why This Project Matters
Few developments can claim to be supporting the future of the UK’s space industry.
The Space Systems Operations Facility represents a landmark investment in Cornwall’s innovation economy and forms part of a nationally significant programme designed to position the UK at the forefront of commercial space activity.
Melin Energy Consultants are proud to have played a role in helping deliver the sustainability credentials for such a prestigious and pioneering development.
Services Provided
- BREEAM Assessment
- Design Stage Assessment
- Post Construction Review
- Sustainability Consultancy
- Credit Strategy Development
- Project Team Coordination
- Evidence Review and Compliance Support
