The Project

Located in Bracknell, Greater London and forming part of the larger redevelopment of Bracknell town centre, Amber House, has been re-purposed to feature a blend of residential and commercial spaces, aimed at fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.

With a clear vision to develop a 100% affordable housing, this development includes 193 high-specification affordable homes, 74 one-bedroom and 119 two-bedroom units, offered through shared ownership and social rent schemes, plus 350 m² of commercial space, complemented by a ground-floor boulevard offering a variety of communal amenities such as shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities.

They were approached by Metropolitan Thames Valley Homes (MTVH) and Hill Group to implement a state-of-the-art mail and parcel delivery system for this development to enhance the living experience for residents.

The Challenge

Their brief was simple, to design a sophisticated mail and parcel delivery system to streamline the process of receiving mail and parcels, ensuring security, convenience, and efficiency.

Given the high density of the residential area, the potential for fire hazards was a significant concern for the developers, along with ensuring that the mailboxes could withstand a fire for extended periods was essential to protect residents and property.

The need for a secure mail and parcel delivery systems that could prevent theft and unauthorised access while remaining easily accessible to residents was also critical.

The Solution

To combat the requirement for this development, SLB’s fire-rated 2 mailboxes and fire rated parcel boxes were chosen. As the leading manufacturer in the UK, and the first to offer the market the 2 hour fire rated letterbox and smart parcel box, these units were the perfect choice.

These post boxes and smart parcel lockers have been rigorously tested and are certified to BS EN 1363-1 standards, and offer a 120-minute fire integrity, ensuring safety and security.

By collaborating closely with MTVH and Hill Group from the project’s inception, they ensured that their fire-rated letterboxes and parcel boxes were seamlessly incorporated into the design plans, to enhance the aesthetics of the property.

Their installation team, ensured that the 200 mailboxes and accompanying intelligent parcel boxes were correctly fitted to industry and fire safety standards and fully operational. To ensure residents were comfortable and familiar with the new systems, they conducted onboarding sessions and provided comprehensive user guides. Their ongoing support to both the client and residents, also ensures a smooth operation and user satisfaction.

THE BENEFITS

FOR THE CLIENT:

1. Enhanced Safety Compliance: The implementation of BS EN 1363-1 certified fire-rated mailboxes and parcel boxes significantly enhances the development’s safety standards, ensuring compliance with stringent fire safety regulations.
2. Seamless Integration: The early involvement and close collaboration ensured that their solutions were seamlessly integrated into the overall design, maintaining the aesthetic and functional integrity of the property.
3. Operational Efficiency: By providing a reliable and efficient mail and parcel delivery system, they helped streamline operations, reducing potential delays and complications in mail handling for the management team.
4. Resident Satisfaction: The advanced mail and parcel system enhances the living experience, contributing to higher resident satisfaction and potentially reducing turnover rates.

FOR THE RESIDENTS:
1. Increased Security: The secure mail and parcel delivery systems protect against theft and unauthorised access, ensuring residents’ valuable items are safe.
2. Enhanced Convenience: Residents benefit from the streamlined process of receiving mail and parcels, with easy 24/7 access to their secure mail and parcel boxes.
3. Fire Safety Assurance: With mailboxes that can withstand fires for up to 120 minutes, residents can feel assured that their safety is prioritised, providing peace of mind in case of emergencies.
4. Comprehensive Support: Ongoing support and user guides ensure that residents are fully supported, making the transition to the new system smooth and hassle-free.

By integrating the Safety Letterbox Company’s innovative mail and parcel delivery systems, MTVH and Hill Group ensured that residents have access to secure, reliable, and fire-safe mail solutions. These systems not only enhance the overall living experience and safety of the community but also promote a cohesive and engaging neighbourhood environment. The project exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to community development, seamlessly blending affordability with high-quality living standards and essential amenities.