Type of works: supply and installation of Sandtoft's interlocking BritLock slates.

Sandtoft’s interlocking BritLock slate has been selected as an attractive alternative to natural slate for the new builds of both Cawdor Primary School near Nairn and Kinlochleven High School in Kinlochleven, Argyll.

The schools are two of eleven schools that have been built as part of the Highland Council’s second education scheme, valued at £134 million.

Made from 80 per cent recycled UK slate waste, in the UK roofing industry’s first carbon neutral plant, BritLock has the same appearance as quarried slate and so is fast being recognised as an obvious and desirable alternative. Cawdor Primary School is in a conservation area and so the choice of roof covering was driven by the expected planning department requirements.

Malcolm Bruce, technical manager for Keppie Design, the architect behind both of these projects, stated: “The choice of materials for both schools was driven by the overall look we were hoping to achieve in terms of complementing the landscape and enhancing the designs of these buildings and, secondarily, by the associated costs.

“Public sector building projects have to be commercially driven and these two schools were no exception so the BritLock slate scored highly in terms of helping us to meet the budget whilst not compromising on the overall look of the two buildings. We were delighted with the roofing choices that were made by the main contractors and we would certainly have no hesitation in using BritLock again as it has provided us with a definitive alternative to slate.”

Nick Oldridge, Sales and Marketing Director for Sandtoft added: “Because BritLock is made with a high percentage of recycled slate using green electricity it will always be viewed as an acceptable alternative by planners and, because it’s interlocking and it is lightweight, it provides a more cost-effective solution. Compared to double lapped slate, interlocking slates will automatically save money on materials and can help to cut down on the amount of labour that is required. We’re delighted that BritLock is proving such a hit with contractors, architects and planners alike.”

BritLock is available in 3 colours, performs down to 17.5° and is BBA accredited.