WORK to improve the energy efficiency of some of Hillingdon Council’s buildings are underway after it secured the largest government grant in London to help de-carbonise.  

A crane was in operation at the Civic Centre in Uxbridge today (31) when it lifted 10 one-ton air source heat pumps on to the roof. 

The installation was overseen by the council’s project team, who were joined by staff from contractors Amaresco. 

Hillingdon has received £13.75m in a scheme run by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and delivered by Salix. 

The borough is projecting £190,000 of energy savings per year, 1,000 tons of carbon dioxide savings annually and the generation of 17 kilowatts of power. 

Work is also underway at Hillingdon Sports and Leisure Complex in Uxbridge and Highgrove Pool and Fitness Centre in Ruislip.

Modifications to the Winston Churchill Theatre in Ruislip were completed earlier this year and the building is now currently running at net carbon zero. 

Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Cabinet Member for Property, Highways and Transport, said: “This project is an essential, short-term spend but will result in long-term net savings, both financially and environmentally for the council and our residents.”

The council has contributed £5m towards the project. 

A separate project to make carbon reductions at Botwell Green Leisure Centre in Hayes is being part-funded by Sport England.