Tendring District Council (TDC) has secured a major £1.2million grant to overhaul Clacton Leisure Centre’s ageing oil-fired boilers with a modern, energy-efficient system.

The swimming pool at the council-run facility, in Vista Road, is set to undergo the eco-friendly upgrade thanks to a successful bid for UK Government funding.

Following the failure of one of the two antiquated boilers serving the pool and changing rooms, the council sought external funding to ensure that the popular facility remains operational.

The authority has now officially accepted a grant of more than £1.2million - towards the cost of the £1.36million project – from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. The scheme is run by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and delivered by Salix to support the public sector to reduce carbon emissions in line with the UK’s 2050 net zero target.

Councillor Adrian Smith, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, said the switch from the dated oil boilers to a modern electric system, alongside the installation of solar panels, will lead to massive cut in energy use.

"Securing this substantial grant is a tremendous achievement for the council and the community,” he said.

“Not only will there be a huge reduction in energy consumption at the centre, but it is expected to save local taxpayers’ money.

“Championing the environment runs through everything we do as a council and this project marks a major step forward in our journey towards Net Zero.

“I would like to thank Salix and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero for this commitment, which will contribute towards the UK-wide efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainability.”

Councillor Mick Barry, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Public Realm, said he was delighted to accept the funding on behalf of the council.

“This funding allows us to move forward with our plans to enhance the energy efficiency of Clacton Leisure Centre, ensuring it remains a sustainable asset for years to come while also addressing the immediate need for a reliable heating system,” he said.

“We are proud of the services that we provide to our residents and this investment follows on from other improvements at the leisure centre, including new energy-efficient pool covers and lighting, a new sauna and major revamps for the car park and spin studio.”

The new boiler system will include a large heat pump designed to provide efficient heating to the air handling units and hot water systems while new solar photovoltaic (PV) panels will be installed to further reduce the facility's carbon footprint and energy consumption.

Director of public sector decarbonisation at Salix, Ian Rodger said: “Climate change is not standing still, and we have no time to waste.

“We’re committed to delivering the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme and we look forward to working with Tendring District Council on the Clacton Leisure Centre where the oil-fired boilers will be replaced with a more energy efficient alternative to reduce carbon emissions.

“The building will not only be better for the planet but offer a more comfortable place for customer and staff to enjoy.”

The council, which will be providing match funding of £164,248 to fully cover the cost of the works, will now launch a procurement process for the project.

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