Magdalene, Bingham and The Christians
A fabric-first external wall insulation programme across 64 homes in 11 blocks at Magdalene Gardens and Bailie Path, part of the City of Edinburgh Council’s Mixed Tenure Improvement Service pilot, taking the homes from EPC D to B.
What the job involved
Delivered as part of the City of Edinburgh Council’s three-year Mixed Tenure Improvement Service (MTIS) pilot, this fabric-first external wall insulation (EWI) refurbishment covered 64 homes across 11 blocks at Magdalene Gardens and Bailie Path. It was the first phase of a major Council plan to improve the condition of blocks of flats that mix privately owned and Council-owned homes.
As Principal Contractor, IRS installed EWI and render to every external wall. The building envelope upgrade extended to new windows and communal entrance doors, replacement loft and cavity wall insulation, re-roofing, structural and chimney repairs and final stage decoration of the common areas, alongside upgraded heating systems.
With the fabric upgrades making the blocks more airtight, a coordinated ventilation strategy went in to keep airflow controlled, mitigate condensation risk and protect indoor air quality, safeguarding the long-term performance of the building fabric and the wellbeing of residents.
IRS used thermal modelling throughout to verify that internal surface temperatures would stay above critical dew-point thresholds, reducing the risk of surface condensation and mould growth in the completed homes. The analysis directly shaped the ventilation strategy and key detailing decisions, so moisture is managed robustly after completion.
A dedicated Resident Liaison Officer kept disruption down, ran regular resident meetings and communications, and coordinated all works bookings.
New astroturf for the Community Centre, improving the space for the wider community. One new Site Manager role was recruited locally.
Compliance and assurance
What the work was delivered to, and what it achieved.
All works delivered to PAS 2035 and EESSH2 standards.
Target achieved.
Shaped by thermal modelling of internal surface temperatures against dew point.
Energy efficiency raised from EPC D to B, contributing to the Council’s net zero targets.
Insurance-backed guarantee for residents.
