Equans, working on behalf of Newcastle City Council, is midway through decarbonisation efforts to make King Charles Tower, Lort House and Pandon Court more comfortable and efficient places to live.
The works see old gas and electric heating systems being removed from the three tower blocks that dominate the local skyline. Having removed the dated heating systems, each tower will have a new air source heat pump fitted to its roof to supply each flat with its heating and hot water requirements.
Residents will also benefit from more efficient radiators, new smart thermostats, external wall insulation and new windows, and the measures are proving popular with residents who recently provided a satisfaction rating of 96% towards the works.
Following a visit to the site, Cllr Marion Williams, Cabinet Member for a Sustainable City at Newcastle City Council, said: “It was brilliant to see first hand the work that has taken place on the three residential blocks so far. I'm looking forward to seeing the benefits when the project is completed.
“This will provide warmer and more comfortable homes for our tenants, and reduce their energy bills.
“We are committed to working with business, residents and our partners to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases as well as reduce energy bills.”
Darren Sterling, Regional Managing Director at Equans, added: "The works at Shieldfield Towers are progressing well and are an important milestone in delivering Newcastle City Council's vision to make zero carbon a reality and help residents reduce their carbon footpring within the warmth and comfort of their homes. The fact that residents have scored the work so highly in the recent customer satisfaction survey speaks volumes about the positive impact that these improvements are having."
An engagement event was held this week to allow residents to see the new heating system, windows and more, with officials from Switchee, the company installing the new thermostats, on hand as well.
Tim Robins, CEO of Switchee, said: "Switchee was delighted to support this engagement event with residents to share how we can help to improve the quality of life for residents with safe, warm, healthy homes. Our Switchee Mitchee vehicle on site highlighted how the Switchee device can use smart solutions to tackle some of the most difficult ongoing in-home challenges including the cost-of-living crisis, fuel poverty, and mould and damp."