Walton Hall, Warrington Borough Council
Walton Hall, Warrington Borough Council
Warrington Borough Council worked with Kensa to replace old gas boilers at Walton Hall, a cherished 19th-century Grade II-listed building. This project, supported by the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), is a key step in the council’s commitment to becoming net-zero by 2030.
Project overview
Walton Hall is set in 32 acres of beautiful parkland. The estate is comprised of a café, golf courses, gardens, a children’s zoo and a glasshouse atrium. It welcomes around 330,000 visitors each year. Before this upgrade, Walton Hall and Gardens was one of the council’s top carbon emitting sites. The project was a great success and is an example of how historic buildings can be decarbonised without being visually impacted.
The new ground source heat pumps are set to save 1,317.50 tonnes of CO2 over 20 years, equivalent to the emissions from 658.6 tonnes of coal, and will cut local air pollution by nearly 11,000 grams of NOx each year.
A rich and entertaining history
Walton Hall has a rich history, starting with Edward Greenall’s purchase of the estate in 1914. His grandson, Lord Daresbury, transformed it into a model of agricultural excellence. The council took over in 1941, and the hall has been open to the public ever since.
Wouter Thijssen, Commercial Director of Kensa comments:
This is a perfect ‘myth-buster’ example for heat pumps: ground source heat pumps fitted into a 19th century, Grade II listed hall with no visual impact or insulation upgrades. With Heritage England encouraging local councils to decarbonise such buildings, this project can be replicated in many more.
How Kensa made a difference
Kensa’s expertise was vital in making this project a success. They carefully designed, supplied, and installed the new ground source heat pump system, following all necessary standards. They also took the time to educate local school children about clean heating and the benefits of this technology, helping to inspire the next generation.
Cllr Hitesh Patel, cabinet member for climate change, sustainability and the environment, said:
This investment into Walton Hall’s heating system is much needed and should cut both running costs and carbon emissions, making these buildings cleaner and greener for years to come.
Challenges overcome
Kensa handled tight deadlines with impressive efficiency, completing drilling two weeks ahead of schedule. They managed the installation without disrupting the hall’s public events, which include weddings, conferences, and other community gatherings.
They also worked with Heritage England to ensure that the installation preserved the hall’s historical integrity and took special care to avoid disturbing local wildlife.
Positive outcome
The Walton Hall retrofit project represents a big win for both the environment and the local community. The council is taking a major step toward its net-zero goal by moving away from fossil fuels.
Kensa’s thoughtful approach and skilful execution not only preserved the hall’s historic charm but also set a positive example for future public projects. Their efforts ensured that the installation was completed smoothly, on time, and without impacting the hall’s vibrant public activities.
