Leicester boasts the most energy efficient Town Hall in the UK following a major investment. The installation of many energy-saving measures has reduced heating costs by more than £13,000 in less than ten years.
The Town Hall, which dates back to 1876, covers nearly 7,000 m2 so heating is an important issue. The building used to rely on an ageing boiler, but a new Viessmann gas condensing boiler was installed in 1994 which is much more fuel efficient. Extensive insulation and draft proofing were also fitted. The building's environmental improvements cost £80,000 in all, but gas consumption has fallen by more than 20 per cent as a result.
Facilities Manager Andy Bubb said: "Older buildings do suffer a lot of problems with heat loss. But by making the Town Hall more energy efficient, we have shown how the same could be done to all the other old buildings in Leicester." Electricity is also saved through low-energy lighting and intelligent lighting controls. Water is also conserved with flow restricted tap jets and urinal flushing controls in the newer toilet facilities.
The Town Hall does have some limitations though because it is a listed building with Grade 2* status. For example, the building's beautiful stained glass windows could not be replaced with double glazing. But wherever possible, environmentally friendly products are introduced as different areas are refurbished. Low VOC paints and natural floor coverings are used where appropriate.
Staff are also encouraged to reduce their impact on the environment by recycling waste and using pedal power to get to work, using the Bike Park which is conveniently situated nextdoor. And although the Town Hall is located right in the heart of the city, wildlife has been encouraged to call the place home - two bat boxes are hiding up in the Clock Tower!
Mr Bubb is delighted the Town Hall has now earned a prestigious Environment City Bulidings award. "The city council does do its best with limited resources. Our major goal for the future would be to install photovoltaic panels on the roof - it would be wonderful to demonstrate the latest technology being used on such an old buliding."
For further information on the Town Hall's green features call Facilities Manager Andy Bubb on 0116 299 5013 or email bubba001@leicester.gov.uk .
Outstanding environmental features:
Large-scale gas condensing boiler
Other green features:
Designated recycling area, extensive insulation, low-energy lighting, intelligent lighting controls, draught lobby entrance, flow restricted tap jets, urinal flushing controls, cycle parking, natural floor coverings, low VOC paints and wildlife breeding aids.