Newcastle University has taken a decisive step towards greater sustainability by upgrading its sports changing facilities with Cistermiser’s water-saving Vecta+ MSPV shower panels.
The retrofit installation at the university’s Cochrane Park Sports Complex is already making a measurable impact - delivering significant water savings and reducing carbon emissions in line with the university’s long-term environmental targets.
The eight showers installed in August 2022 replace units that had been in operation since 2002. Following a review of energy and water efficiency, the university identified the aging fixtures as an opportunity to reduce consumption and operational costs while supporting its broader sustainability goals.
The Vecta+ mechanical push-button activated shower panels from Cistermiser were chosen for their robust build, ease of installation and most importantly, their water- and energy-saving capabilities. With a preset flow rate of 8 litres per minute and a 30-second timed shut-off, the showers help limit unnecessary water use and reduce the energy needed to heat water - a key factor in lowering overall carbon output.
A spokesperson for Newcastle University comments: “Newcastle University is committed to making the campus more sustainable. It is essential that we make the right choices today for the long term. The Cistermiser Vecta+ MSPV showers tick all those boxes, helping us reduce both water wastage and carbon emissions, by approximately one tonne annually. The installation process was straightforward, and the 10-year manufacturer’s warranty provides additional reassurance that the units will stand up to heavy daily use.”
The showers were supplied by Wolseley and installed over two days by a local plumbing team, highlighting the retrofit-friendly nature of the product. The mechanical operation also meant there was no need for mains or battery power, giving the university greater flexibility in its upgrade.
Early projections estimate an annual water saving of over 2.3 million litres, equating to more than £5,500 in reduced utility costs. Based on current usage, the investment is expected to deliver payback in as little as four months.
Richard Braid, Managing Director at Cistermiser, says: “Newcastle University’s decision to install the Vecta+ MSPV shows what’s possible when institutions take a practical, data-led approach to sustainability. We're proud to play a part in supporting their journey to reduce water and energy consumption without compromising on quality or user experience. The fact that they’re expecting a return on investment in as little as four months really demonstrates the tangible value of making smart, sustainable upgrades.”
This project adds to Newcastle University’s ongoing campus-wide improvements, which place sustainability at the heart of infrastructure decisions. By opting for an efficient, durable, and easy-to-install solution with Cistermiser, the university has taken another meaningful step toward a lower-carbon future.
To read the full Newcastle University project case study visit.: https://www.cistermiser.co.uk/casestudies/newcastle-university-reduces-water
For more information on Cistemer’s portfolio of products visit https://www.cistermiser.co.uk/
