Norfolk County Council (NCC) in the UK has selected Mace as the primary contractor to upgrade more than 100 properties in the region as part of the Future Ready Property Enhancement Initiative. 

The initiative intends to update the council’s portfolio via a comprehensive programme. 

It aims to deliver long-term cost savings, enhance functionality, and support a continually evolving, dynamic, and diverse workforce. 

The Future Ready Initiative seeks to enhance energy efficiency and thermal integrity, eliminate fossil fuel usage across multiple assets, prioritise structural integrity, and tackle wear and tear.  

Solutions such as air-source heat pumps (ASHPs), solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, and potentially new facilities will be implemented to cater to the needs of the community.  

The project covers community hubs, offices, children's homes, and emergency service facilities. 

Mace Fitout and Retrofit managing director Stewart Ward said: “We are honoured to be working with Norfolk County Council once again, harnessing our industry-leading expertise in delivering complex transformational net-zero programmes. 

“The Future Ready Initiative is a step in the right direction for the decarbonisation of public sector estates across the UK. By making these buildings fit for the future, we are ensuring they can be used by local communities for generations to come, while creating a blueprint of what can be achieved nationwide.” 

In alignment with NCC’s 2030 net-zero goal, Mace's role will adhere to the PAS 2030 retrofit accreditation, promoting energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.  

Mace has secured the necessary design expertise, commencing at the Royal Institute of British Architects stage two, under an NEC 4 contract, to meet these stringent PAS design requirements. 

The company plans to form a dedicated social value team, offering local jobs, training, and apprenticeships, organising supply chain events, and promoting green skills via educational initiatives throughout Norfolk. 

Last month, Mace announced the completion and handover of a new mixed-use development, One Za’abeel, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.