Heating system upgrades at Lostock Court
A major project to upgrade the heating systems in our independent living schemes is having a significant impact on the lives of our tenants.
This includes:
- lowering tenants' energy bills
- supporting independence by installing individual controls in their homes
- supporting their health and wellbeing by keeping them warm, comfortable and confident
- reducing instances of breakdown and repair.
We spoke to Adam, our Compliance Surveyor and Graham, our Compliance Manager (M&E) at our latest scheme to benefit from the heating system upgrade, Lostock Court, to find out more.
Hi Adam and Graham, it's great to be here at Lostock Court, one of our independent living schemes for over 55s, to see the results and impact of the commercial plant room replacement project that you've been delivering.
What were some of the reasons behind upgrading the heating systems?
Graham: “The boiler replacement programme aims to reduce repairs and breakdowns of the heating at the schemes, whilst increasing energy efficiency and reducing the tenants' gas bill contributions.
“To date, the Group has invested approximately £650,000 in this project, with further upgrades included in the Group's long-term financial plan.”
Who did you work with on the project?
Adam: “We have now completed six successful commercial plant room replacements in collaboration with the wider team at Progress Housing Group, especially the independent living coordinators, and with our contractor, Broad Oak Group, with whom we've worked in partnership on all six replacements.”
Graham: “We were also impressed with Broad Oak's commitment to social value. At Lostock Court, Broad Oak helped us make even further savings by switching solar PV (Photovoltaic) over to hot water, where possible, as part of their social value contract, and they also supported the Group by fundraising for our charity, Key Unlocking Futures, and contributing to a Christmas event for all the tenants at Lostock Court to enjoy."
How were Progress Housing Group tenants involved in the heating upgrade project?
Graham: “It was important for us to include tenant engagement in our project planning process. We attended coffee mornings prior to the project starting and engaged tenants to explain what the plan was, how it would affect them and answered their questions.”
Adam: “Tenants were kept informed of the process throughout, with me and the contractors on-site regularly and available to talk to.”
What improvements and upgrades were made?
Graham: “We replaced all components in the communal boiler room and the schemes. This includes the installation of a new BMS (Building Management System) control panel, which monitors the system's performance, alters the temperature outputs depending on the outside temperature, and provides remote monitoring of the system.
“There have also been extensive upgrades to the safety features in line with current regulations.”
Adam: “Where possible, we've provided each flat with individual room controls which offers the tenant better control over the temperature in their home. The boiler room pipework has been fully insulated to maintain efficiency, along with other minor remedial works, and application of industry-standard floor coatings.”
What benefits will the upgrades have for tenants?
Graham: “Less gas usage; on average, there has been a reduction in gas usage of 20% compared to the same period in the 12 months before the installation.
“Risks of breakdowns and compliance risks are reduced, and tenants now have control over their own flat temperature.”
Adam: “Also, the new systems support environmental performance through smarter controls and reduced carbon impact.
“We’re delighted with the results achieved through teamwork, quality, and a shared commitment to high standards.
“I'd like to say a big thank you to everyone involved in delivering a safe, compliant, and successful project."
Chris Bardell, Commercial Services Director at Broad Oak Group, said: “We’re proud to have partnered with Progress Housing Group on this important upgrade programme.
"Improving reliability, efficiency, and comfort for the tenants has been at the heart of our work, and it’s been fantastic to see the positive impact these new heating systems are already making.
"The collaborative approach between our teams, the independent living coordinators, and the tenants themselves has been key to delivering such a successful outcome.
“We’re committed to adding value wherever possible, and we’re delighted that our contribution will support lower energy use, fewer breakdowns, and a warmer, more comfortable living environment for years to come.”
We also heard from our tenants about the project:
Our Independent Living Coordinator, Mel, said: “It’s been a good process throughout the heating system replacement project.
“We tried to keep any disruptions down to a minimum for the tenants; Adam kept all the tenants informed throughout, and the contractor, Broad Oak Group, were very good and informative.”
Lostock Court tenant, Alan, added: “They've all been a good team. They kept the walkways clear, spoke to the tenants, got on with the tenants - and they got on with the job.
“We couldn't have asked for better.”
