Kingston Council is set to invest £7 million in energy retrofits for 15 of its buildings, aiming to cut emissions and reduce operating costs. The decision was discussed at the Place Committee meeting on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, where councillors reviewed plans to decarbonise building operations in line with the council's Climate Action Strategy.
The council has partnered with Cenergist through the 'Retrofit Accelerator - Workplaces' programme. The upgrades, to be delivered over six years, include measures such as solar PV installations, LED lighting upgrades, glazing improvements, and heat pump installations. According to the council, the first phase of works alone is projected to save £54,648 annually and reduce carbon emissions by 40.02 tCO2e.
Annex 1 of the report details the buildings selected for the programme. A formal Works/Optimisation Services Agreement will be established with Cenergist for the initial phase, allowing procurement and site works to commence. The council has allocated £7,962,381 through its capital programme for the implementation of these energy-efficient measures and low-carbon technologies over the next five years.
In addition to the energy retrofits, the Place Committee also discussed the Household Reuse and Recycling Centre (HRRC) and Waste Transfer Station (WTS) redevelopment, commonly known as the Villiers Road
site. A report sought approval to progress the project to the end of RIBA 4 and procure a construction partner. The key features of the design include pedestrian and cycle access, raised flat-level access for waste disposal points, and enhanced health and safety measures. The estimated budget for the project is £13.5 million.
The Place Committee meeting also covered topics such as habitat banks, a motion regarding a third runway at Heathrow Airport, and a petition on a proposed footbridge over the River Thames. The full agenda and reports are available online.