Our role
- The Manchester Civic Quarter Heat Network (MCQHN) originated as part of the Greater Manchester heat network programme, which was created to encourage the development of efficient, cost-effective district heat networks across the ten Local Authorities of Greater Manchester, to support carbon and energy policy commitments both locally and nationally.
- The project comprises a combined heat and power energy centre including a dispersion flue, known as the ‘Tower of Light’; and a network of insulated heating pipework to connect to some of the civic buildings within Manchester city centre.
- We provided expert advice on Planning, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Heritage and Townscape, Strategic Communications and human health matters.
Results
- We have secured planning permission and listed building consents for the project.
- Delivery of the project is a strategic priority in the city council’s carbon reduction programme.
- Its delivery is supported by international, national, sub-regional and local planning and environmental policies relating to climate change and the need to reduce the level of emission of carbon dioxide.
- The design of the project has followed an iterative process which began with a national architectural competition. The result is a unique building of contemporary architectural design which reflects the city council’s commitment to a low carbon future.
- This will become a land-mark feature at the western gateway into the city centre, and will support the ongoing physical regeneration of this area.
