Decision details

To update Members on the delivery of phase 3 mechanical and electrical (M&E) installation, the successful outcome of a bid to the swimming pool support fund and a range of invest to save proposals at the Dolphin Centre.

The Cabinet Member with the Health and Housing Portfolio introduced the report of the Group Director of Services (previously circulated) updating Members on the delivery of the Phase 3 Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) installation and requesting that consideration be given to the release of funding, following a successful bid to the Swimming Pool Support Fund (SPSF), for photovoltaic panels and a new combined heating and power unit.

The submitted report provided an update on the Dolphin Centre and the works being undertaken; stated that the Government announced the SPSF in June 2023,which was in two phases; the Council were successful in a bid to the Capital phase of the fund in February 2024; and that the funding would provide a new combined heating power unit and photovoltaic panels, which would improve the carbon footprint of the building and reduce operational costs.

It was reported the works identified in the bid had been incorporated into the Phase 3 M&E works which allowed a single tender to be issued in order to secure economies of scale and a more effective delivery programme.  The Phase 3 works included space heating and ventilation across a number of areas in the building; the building management system (control system); air handling systems; emergency lighting; and replacing existing lights with LED fittings to improve energy efficiency.

In presenting the report the Cabinet Member with the Health and Housing Portfolio thanked all those staff involved in submitting the bid and securing the funding from Sports England.

A Member welcomed the funding and investment in the building and the improvements that would be made in its sustainability.

RESOLVED - That the £526K of capital funding, be released, from the successful bid to the Swimming Pool Support Fund.

REASON - To enable the installation of photovoltaic panels and a new combined heating and power unit at the Dolphin Centre as part of the Phase 3 Mechanical and Electrical works.