62 homes for older residents in York have been upgraded with energy-efficient technology giving residents lower bills, more space and health benefits.
This City of York Council project was funded by the region’s combined authority. Residents of the 35 apartments at Alex Lyon House in Tang Hall and the 27 apartments at Honeysuckle House in Dringhouses, now have finger-tip control of their heating while also cutting individual fuel bills by about £300 a year.
The improvements come thanks to over £1.6 million from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Net Zero Fund, which in turn came from the UK Government.
Retrofitting homes successfully depends on good insulation to keep the heat in and draughts out. Both independent living communities (ILCs) were built in the 1990s when cavity wall insulation was installed. Draught exclusion and insulation has been updated at the flats.
Each of the 62 apartments was fitted with its own easy-to-control and energy-efficient air source heat pump along with high-efficiency radiators. These replaced bulky Economy 7 storage heaters which used lots of energy and offered little control. New on-demand hot water systems in the kitchens also mean the residents save on water heating.
Solar panels have been installed on the roofs to generate free electricity along with batteries to store the energy, and heating systems for the Houses’ communal areas has been upgraded.
Together, these measures will shrink tenants’ energy bills and boost their comfort and health benefits, while reducing the buildings’ carbon footprints.
Valerie Jones, a resident of Alex Lyon House for 13 years, said:
Since the new heating system has been fitted, I’ve not had to use my asthma inhaler once, my flat’s roomier as the new radiators are thinner and wider, and now I can get hotter water when I want it.
“My bills haven’t come in yet, but I’m expecting to see a difference now we have solar panels, and because the new heating has put us on a better tariff.
“The whole thing, from start to finish, has been marvellous. The workers have been brilliant throughout, the work has cost us nothing and I’m thrilled with it.”
Councillor Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing at City of York Council, said:
Installing these new and improved measures will make a noticeable saving and bring greater comfort and control for each resident. It helps make life healthier and more affordable for those who most need it.”
Councillor Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment at City of York Council,, said:
This project supports our strategy to reduce emissions and decarbonise our housing stock. It also supports our aim to become a net-zero city by 2030.”
York and North Yorkshire Mayor, David Skaith said:
Our homes should be a place of comfort which is why we’re upgrading the homes of those who need it most, like the older residents living in apartments run by the City of York Council.
“York and North Yorkshire’s upcoming Retrofit Strategy has communities like these at its heart, but we’re already getting started.
“We have invested £1.6 million in new technology through our Net Zero Fund so they can stay warm without worrying about their energy bills, while supporting our net zero ambitions.”
Leeds Beckett University is leading research on retrofitting nationally, and will monitor the impact of this work to help inform the Government on air quality and energy consumption.
Consultation was carried out with residents before work began which included bringing a heating system for them to try out.
Work was carried out with minimal disruption and residents were able to stay in their homes while it was done.
York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority is currently seeking views on a retrofit strategy for the region. To have your say, please click here.