A scheme that has seen the Decarbonisation of the Mersey Tunnels site in Wallasey has been recognised at the Nation ACR & Heat Pump Awards 2024. The project delivered by Rothwell Plumbing Services Group (RPS Group) caught the attention of the judges due to its impressive results.

“The project has been recognised as exemplary and has taken home the award for Non-Domestic Scheme of the Year. Competition in this category was extremely tough. The win is a testament to the hard work, collaboration undertaken by all partners involved.” Graham Rothwell, Chief Executive, RPS Group

The Mersey Tunnels site is the Asset Management base consisting of a works depot and offices. The building sits within a unique location- near the entrance of the Kingsway Tunnel on the A59. The Mersey Tunnels carry on average 80,000 vehicles a day (almost 27 million per year).

Before the works, the location was the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority estate’s largest gas user.

The 1970’s 1970s-designed building was selected to put forward as a project worthy of receiving PSDS funding- to decarbonise the building as part of the Combined Authority’s ambitious net zero commitments.

Gary Evans, Assistant Director of Customer Delivery for the Combined Authority added:

“We are delighted that this funding has enabled us to demonstrate our commitment to decarbonisation as we continue our journey towards net zero in the Liverpool City Region. The practical delivery of such schemes is no small undertaking and is an excellent example of the Combined Authority, contractors and external funders working collaboratively to deliver on behalf of our 1.6m residents.”

Investment Measures

The main element of the works was the complete removal of all fossil fuel boilers, replacing them with new Low carbon heating systems in the form of Air Source Heat Pumps- to provide efficient, clean, effective, and direct emission-free heating. This also included a new distribution pipe network, heat emitters and future-proofed smart controls.

Other investment measures installed by RPS Group on the building included:  Increased insulation via a new roof, external wall insulation, a new cladding system and new double glazing.

The result of the improvements will mean that Wallasey is on the road to net zero, using clean electricity via the new systems. For this building alone there will be a gas savings of 126,000 kWh of Gas per year.

To support the works, LCRCA were awarded £1,787,816 in grant funding under Phase 3a of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. Funding is delivered by Salix Finance on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Ian Rodger, Director of Programmes, Salix Finance, said:

“We are proud to have supported the works undertaken by the Combined Authority at their Wallasey Depot which will deliver significant reductions in their carbon footprint as well as making the buildings much more energy efficient.

“The award recognises the positive outcomes that decarbonisation works are having on both people and the planet.”