Princess River Cruises Facilities Building

A new facilities building for the Nottingham based river cruise operator’s new departure point.

Princess River Cruises operate two deluxe river cruisers on the tranquil River Trent in Nottingham, which are available for either day or night time cruising every day of the year. Sited in greenbelt just outside the city boundary with an extremely prominent river frontage.This meant major planning concerns were overcome to achieve a satisfactory planning approval.

The cruise operator had operated out of nearby premises for many years.The land had been sold for redevelopment and the company was offered alternative land on the River Trent near Colwick Park.A new purpose built facilities building was required for guests to arrive at and begin their river trips or evenings out.

The client approached Pinelog as they had seen other facility buildings at Darwin Forest Country Park.Pinelog worked closely with the client to understand the needs of users in order to develop the design from first principles using their in-house architects.

Once the design was agreed by the client Pinelog where able to take the design through the planning application stage,detailed design and cost planning to ensure the building was in line with the client’s budget expectations.

There was a considerable amount of correspondence with the council planning department who felt that the new building’s design should be contemporary, yet utilising traditional materials in an ecologically friendly manner.

The facilities building is constructed using a timber frame with high levels of insulation and air tightness to prevent heat loss and increase energy efficiency.The external walls are finished entirely using sustainable larch and the roof is finished with a single ply roof with overhanging eaves. Materials are sourced where possible from sustainable sources and are FSC and BM TRADA certified.