Net Zero Week in Cambridgeshire

As Net Zero Week (4th–11th July) shines a spotlight on environmental action across the UK, leisure centres in Cambridge are playing their part in building a more sustainable future through major investment and environmental improvements.

Working alongside Cambridge City Council, Better has been involved in significant projects designed to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency and modernise facilities across the Cambridge partnership. These initiatives are helping to ensure that local leisure centres remain sustainable for future generations while continuing to provide high‑quality services for residents.

One of the largest projects has been the Salix‑funded decarbonisation programme, which includes major investment at Abbey Leisure Complex and Parkside Pools & Gym. Supported through £1.7 million of Salix funding, the programme is delivering a wide range of low‑carbon upgrades including the installation of Air Source Heat Pumps to replace traditional gas boilers, extensive Solar PV expansion to increase renewable electricity generation on site, and improved insulation and ventilation systems to reduce overall energy consumption. Together, these measures significantly reduce carbon emissions and modernise the centres’ heating and electrical infrastructure.

Additional improvements include LED lighting upgrades, new double‑glazed window units in Abbey’s pool hall to improve heat retention, and the installation of a Hyprolyser system that allows the centres to generate chlorine on site, reducing transport emissions and chemical usage. Future sustainability projects currently being explored include Pool Water Recovery systems at Parkside, Abbey and Kings Hedges, and rainwater recovery at Parkside. Cambridge City Council is also progressing plans for a city‑wide heat network, which is expected to supply low‑carbon heat to several locations including Parkside Pools.

As Cambridge continues its journey towards a lower‑carbon future, these projects highlight how leisure centres can play an important role in tackling climate change, improving energy efficiency and creating more sustainable communities for everyone.