Hello Alyn
 
> In regards to ventilation,A lot of
> ventilation is >not good Although the climate here in the UK is not
> as regularly severe as elsewhere, there has been much successful
> experiment recently with completely open mesh-covered floors with
> increased top insulation. I will try to find some references to
> published info. Also, I intend to try them out myself this year.
 
I have Wintered my bees with mesh floors the last couple of years and
they haven't objected.  Hereabouts damp is supposed to be more of a
problem than cold.  I have heard the opinion expressed that open
floors may slow Spring build-up due to reduced temperature.
 
Joe Hemmens
Cornwall UK.