Lambeth Council

Air and Water Source Heat Pumps
12 Sites

Decarbonisation upgrades delivered across schools and leisure centres

508 tCO₂e

Carbon emissions reduction across leisure centres

Location:

12No Sites in the Lambeth Council Area

Project Value:

£10,000,000

Sector:

District Heating

Project Status:

Complete


Scope

Air and Water Source Heat Pumps for Leisure Centres and Schools under PSDS P3c funding


Project Overview

Alternative Heat were appointed as Principal Contractor and Principal Designer to deliver a major multi-site decarbonisation programme for Lambeth Council, comprising design, supply and installation of air source and water source heat pump systems (ASHP/WSHP) in accordance with SALIX PSDS 3b requirements. The works formed part of a wider suite of energy-efficiency upgrades including glazing, insulation, LED lighting and solar PV.

The project covered 12 sites, including schools and leisure centres, with new low-carbon heating systems integrated into existing LTHW and DHW networks. Each site was targeted for full or partial removal of gas heating, supporting Lambeth Council’s long-term decarbonisation strategy.

Scope of Works

Alternative Heat delivered full RIBA Stages 2–4 detailed design and the full mechanical, electrical and civils installation package, including:

  • Supply and installation of ASHPs, WSHPs, thermal stores, calorifiers, pump sets and ancillary equipment

  • Retrofit integration of new systems into existing LTHW/DHW plantrooms

  • Modular rooftop packaged plantrooms (e.g., Fenstanton Primary School)

  • Structural steelwork, plant decks, gantries and acoustic enclosures

  • BMS panels, distribution boards and electrical upgrades

  • DNO upgrade works including civils for pipework and cable routing

  • Delivery and crane lift of heat pumps and modular plantrooms to rooftop locations

  • System flushing, water treatment, commissioning and seasonal commissioning

Project Management Excellence

Alternative Heat developed a detailed project programme covering design, procurement and construction, including risk identification and mitigation strategies embedded through a live Risk Register. Weekly progress meetings, formal reporting and clear communication were maintained with Lambeth Council, design teams and subcontractors to ensure transparent and efficient project delivery.

A robust Quality Assurance regime was implemented throughout design and construction, supported by Trimble Viewpoint (4P) for controlled documentation workflows and approvals.

DNO Management

Alternative Heat supported Lambeth Council through the full DNO application process for new electrical capacity, including feasibility studies, load assessments, technical submissions, and oversight of connection works to ensure full compliance with regulations and project requirements.

Energy & Carbon Reduction (Leisure Centres)

  • Clapham Leisure Centre: 989,699 kWh reduction, 54% saving, 182 tCO₂e reduction

  • Streatham Ice & Leisure Centre: 1,680,670 kWh reduction, 44% saving, 326 tCO₂e reduction

PSDS Phase 3c Support

Alternative Heat assisted Lambeth Council in securing PSDS 3c funding by preparing detailed technical submissions covering scope, design intent, energy savings, carbon reductions, programme and cost modelling. The Pre-Construction and Commercial teams ensured full compliance with Salix requirements, including progress reporting, cost validation and final outcomes reporting.