Welwyn Hatfield Centres Support Net Zero Week

As Net Zero Week highlights action being taken across the UK to reduce carbon emissions, Better leisure facilities in partnership with Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council are demonstrating how local investment in sustainable infrastructure and community-led environmental projects are helping create a greener future for the borough.

One of the most significant environmental improvements has been at Hatfield Swim Centre, where a major decarbonisation project has transformed the building's heating system. Through funding secured via the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, ageing gas boilers were replaced with Air Source Heat Pumps and Solar PV panels, with a £733,867 investment from the fund, helping reduce the facility's carbon footprint while improving energy efficiency. The project forms part of a wider £2.3 million investment across council buildings aimed at supporting the borough's journey towards net zero by 2030.

Looking ahead, Better is also working closely with the council's Climate Officer, who is aiming to establish regular Climate Hub sessions within local leisure centres. These monthly events would provide residents with opportunities to learn more about sustainability, access information on local environmental initiatives and connect with council-led green projects. The initiative would further strengthen leisure centres as community hubs, while raising awareness of the borough's environmental ambitions and creating stronger links between residents and local climate action.

Further environmental improvements have also been implemented at Hatfield Swim Centre through a water efficiency survey carried out by Affinity Water. Following the survey, a range of measures were introduced to reduce water waste, including the installation of motion sensors in urinals and maintenance works to pipework and seals to prevent unnecessary water loss. These improvements complement the centre's wider sustainability efforts by reducing both water consumption and operational waste.

Sustainability efforts extend beyond the leisure centres themselves. At King George V Playing Fields, the Community Garden provides opportunities for residents to engage with nature, support biodiversity and learn about sustainable growing practices. Alongside Green Flag accredited parks and community volunteering initiatives, these projects demonstrate how Better and Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council are working together to create greener spaces and encourage environmental stewardship across the borough.

As Welwyn Hatfield continues its journey towards a lower-carbon future, these projects highlight how leisure centres can play an important role in tackling climate change, supporting biodiversity and creating more sustainable communities for everyone.