A RANGE of eco-friendly improvements for Alcombe Children’s Centre in Minehead have been announced.

The changes have been issued thanks to support provided by Somerset Council and through government grants.

It is estimated that these renovations will result in carbon savings of nearly 12-tonnes each year, helping the council's dedication to create a more sustainable county in response to climate concerns.

The refurbishment is set to utilise £250,000 from the council's successful application to the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme.

The centre serves multiple local entities which include Cheeky Cherubs Nursery, the Minehead Shed community group, Public Health Nurses, and Home-start West Somerset.

Work is slated to commence in January 2024 and targets a completion date within 13 weeks.

Somerset County Gazette: Work is slated to commence in January 2024 and targets a completion date within 13 weeks

The revamp will prioritise the introduction of electric Air Source Heat Pumps, LED lighting, and solar panels on the roof, to replace the existing gas heating system.

Despite the renovations, the centre will maintain regular operations and any necessary disruptions will occur outside operational hours, unless consent is granted by the council and building managers.

The Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, run by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and delivered by Salix Finance, is the primary source of funding for these much-needed updates.

Councillor Ros Wyke, Lead Member for Economic Development, Planning and Assets, said: "Alcombe Children’s Centre is an essential hub for many community groups and needs essential works to keep it fit for purpose and safe.

"With the help of the public sector decarbonisation funding, rather than replace old systems with like for like, we can transform it to be an energy-efficient, sustainable comfortable community space for those who need it now and future generations to come."

Councillor Dixie Darch, Lead Member for Environment and Climate Change, emphasised the importance of this project: "This project is a fitting example of combining necessary maintenance to our buildings with energy-saving improvements that align with our Climate Strategy and help reduce our carbon footprint."

Salix Finance, a Non-Departmental Public Body, is delivering the funding for this project.

Caterina Bartelloni of Salix Finance said: "We are delighted to be able to support Somerset Council on the journey to net zero.

"This is an ambitious project, and the result will be more efficient energy use as well as producing more comfortable areas for the community’s children."

Salix Finance administers loan and grant funding on behalf of several government departments, facilitating energy efficiency and heat decarbonisation projects within public sector buildings.