COLCHESTER Council has received £527,000 to reduce its carbon footprint by installing a state-of-the-art heating system and LED lighting at its main offices.

Roman House will receive an overhaul thanks to the grant, which comes from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme.

An energy efficient air source heat pump powered by electricity will replace the boiler at Rowan House, which is in Sheepen Road.

LED lights will also be installed to reduce electricity consumption whilst extra roof insulation will boost the building's green credentials.

The new heating system is expected to save 108.7 tonnes of CO2 per year being emitted into the atmosphere, whilst the LED lighting will save 30.9 tonnes.

The council declared a climate emergency in July 2019 and hopes to go carbon neutral by 2030.

David King, councillor responsible for business and resources, said: "Our Climate Emergency pledge commits the council to do all it can reduce its carbon footprint, as well as to use our buildings and estates well.

"It is great news that we have successfully made the case for government funds which will help us finalise plans to modernise this building.

“As a council we are fully committed to meeting, and where possible exceeding, our environmental obligations and have already embraced progressive, award-winning policies to help minimise our impact on climate change and the wider environment.

"Decarbonising Rowan House will bring a significant reduction in our CO2 emissions and another significant step towards being carbon neutral by 2030."

Green - business boss David King has welcomed Colchester Council securing a £537,000 grant for the works

Green - business boss David King has welcomed Colchester Council securing a £537,000 grant for the works

Plans to revamp Rowan House have been accelerated with most staff based on site now working from home due to Covid.

Mr King said: "Prior to the pandemic, plans were already being developed to transform a tired building in need of investment.

"With most staff based there now working almost exclusively from home, we can take the changes further.

"We aim to deliver a modern working environment, fit for flexible working and, in addition to energy savings, to reduce our costs and requirements for office space and invite other public sector partners in to deliver essential services to residents better, together.”