Ice Works Apartments, Worcester

Project overview

Each newly built dwelling and flat in the converted Ice Works factory features Kensa’s ground source heat pumps, which use sustainably sourced heat from the ground to keep the homes comfortable all year round.

Using ground source heat pumps to provide sustainable heating for the apartments feels complementary to the building’s history, as the technology mirrors the refrigeration process used in the Victorian era to produce ice.

Honouring Worcester’s industrial history

This two-phase development represents a harmonious blend of historic preservation and a forward-thinking commitment to modern and energy-efficient living spaces, thanks to the inclusion of innovative ground source heat pump technology.

Starting as a flour mill in the 1800s, the facility went on to provide cold storage and manufacture ice for refrigeration, selling it in substantial amounts to butchers and local cafes in the 1900s. Having lain derelict for 20 years, the project to turn the old mill into housing, retaining many of its historic features, thankfully put demolition plans on ice.

In Phase 1 of the project, the new developments ‘Brook Court’ and ‘Watermill Court’ were built. Comprised of 21 apartments fitted with the small and compact Kensa Shoebox ground source heat pumps, the buildings were designed sympathetically to reflect the architecture of the mill and respect the heritage of the site.

Phase 2 saw the restoration and refurbishment of the old Ice Works, transforming the derelict building into 12 high-end apartments fitted with either Kensa Shoebox or Evo heat pumps.

David Broom, Managing Director of Kensa Contracting, comments:

The Ice Works is a compelling example of how Kensa’s ground source heat pump technology can seamlessly integrate with restoring historic buildings. The renovation of the Victorian Ice Works, once a hub for ammonia-based refrigeration, now mirrors our contemporary approach to sustainable heating.  The Ice Works is a beacon for marrying past and present in pursuing a low-carbon future.

Creating energy-efficient modern living spaces

Navigating the site’s urban brownfield characteristics posed considerable logistical spatial challenges for contractors, making the completion of Phase 1 a significant achievement.  The installation of networked ground source heat pumps at the Ice Works ran smoothly alongside other construction activities, completing the work seamlessly with no added complications.

Kensa Contracting was pivotal in designing, supplying, and installing the ground array according to MCS standards and accreditation. Additionally, Kensa Heat Pumps supplied heat pumps and cylinders and offered essential technical support throughout the project.

Networked heat pumps offer many benefits for residents;

• Each apartment enjoys complete control over heating and hot water.
• Reliable, environmentally friendly, and sustainable heating and hot water throughout the year.
• Flexibility to choose energy supplier, with full autonomy over their energy bills.
• Efficient heating and low running costs.
• Combined 20-year savings of just over 30 tonnes of carbon compared to individual gas boilers.
• Eliminating 148 grams of NOx emissions per year in Phase 1 and 221 grams per year in Phase 2 compared to individual gas boilers.

The networked heat pumps reduce carbon emissions, and as the electric grid becomes greener, they put these homes on a path to achieving Zero-Carbon status.

Compared to traditional gas systems, Ice Works’ ground source heat pumps will eliminate 148 grams of NOx emissions per year in Phase 1 and 221 grams per year in Phase 2. This proactive measure guarantees that the heating system doesn’t contribute to air pollution, which is particularly crucial in urban environments like Worcester.

Glenis Johnson, owner of a penthouse apartment at The Ice Works, said:

“Before moving into the Ice Works, I’d always had traditional combi boilers. I always thought they were very good. However, I know that to tackle climate change, we have to stop burning fossil fuels. I had heard of heat pumps, but I didn’t know anyone who had one.

“Although the Kensa Shoebox ground source heat pump in my flat initially seemed a bit mysterious, I think it’s an absolutely brilliant product, and I now love it. The team at Kensa provided first-class technical support when I needed it.

“It is very efficient and quiet, and there are no vibrations. I’ve heard that air source heat pumps can be much noisier and annoying for the neighbours. I can see how ground source heat pumps can be very good for new build properties. I won’t go back to gas now!

“I like that I can control the temperature of each room individually. Even though this is a multi-occupancy apartment block, I can tailor the system to match my own heating preferences. I can also run the heat pump for a reasonable price.

“The small Shoebox and cylinder were artfully and miraculously installed into a very tiny cupboard space, and people are always surprised to discover that there is no central plant room for the heating system!”

Project outcome

The Ice Works is not just a housing development; it’s a testament to the successful adaptation of historical structures for modern, sustainable living. Overcoming logistical complexities and using innovative ground source heat pump technology, the project showcases how urban brownfield sites can be transformed into vibrant, energy-efficient communities. The blend of historic preservation and cutting-edge ground source heat pump solutions positions the Ice Works as a landmark example of sustainable urban redevelopment.