Our latest news
Ground source heat pump project at UHL
Following completion of the investigation and testing phase in Ladywell Fields over the summer, the Trust has now received the technical findings from its specialist consultants.
The results indicate that the project has a high likelihood of technical viability, with testing confirming that the chalk aquifer beneath Ladywell Fields appears capable of supporting the proposed ground source heat pump system, in order to heat the hospital.
As a result, we are now developing a full business case, which will be considered through the Trust’s internal governance and approval processes over the coming weeks.
The Trust Board (in October) will review and assess the project's technical, financial, operational, social and environmental implications in full, before any decision is made on whether to proceed.
If the Business Case is approved by the Trust Board, the decision to move to the next phase would be shared publicly. This next phase would entail:
- Procurement of contractors to progress the design and delivery of the works
- Applications for the necessary approvals and licences from statutory bodies
- Planning submissions to Lewisham Council where required
- Stakeholder engagement and consultation with local residents.
The proposed Ground Source Heat Pump project is expected to deliver significant environmental benefits, including a reduction of up to 4,000 tonnes of CO₂e per year. It offers the most sustainable option for replacing the current 1970s steam boilers, which are at end-of-life and require replacement.
We would like to extend a massive thank you to local residents and park users for their patience and engagement throughout the testing phase. Further updates will be provided as the Trust's decision-making process progresses. If the project does get the go-ahead, an announcement on our communications and engagement plan will follow.