New heating system helps slash swimming pool bills

Work on the new energy system has now been completed

The installation of a new green energy system at a swimming pool, which aims to cut bills and carbon emissions, has been completed.

Ilkeston's Victoria Park Leisure Centre, in Derbyshire, has had its ageing roof-mounted mechanical ventilation ripped out and replaced by a state-of-the-art high-efficiency air handling unit.

The project was launched after Erewash Borough Council secured £550,000 of government money from the Swimming Pool Support Fund.

Councillor Mark Alfrey, council cabinet member for the environment, said: "This kind of investment will pay dividends for generations to come."

New ducts, heating pipes and grilles have been installed, along with thermal insulation and an advanced building management system.

There have been upgrades to controls and water treatment systems - all of which the council said would "enhance user comfort and indoor air quality".

The improvements also include the installation of 124 rooftop solar panels, which are expected to generate 49,109 kWh of renewable electricity annually, the council added.

Glen Hall, managing director of operator Parkwood Leisure, said the Victoria Park centre's carbon footprint would dramatically reduce - with effectively tonnes less CO2 being emitted each year.

"The new solar PV system at Victoria Park is a fantastic example of how renewable energy can make a real difference in supporting community health and wellbeing while protecting the environment," he said.