George Romney Junior School in Dalton-in-Furness will enjoy a warmer, more energy efficient winter thanks to a £175,000 Investment to replace the heating system throughout the building.

The works, carried out under Westmorland and Furness Council’s Schools Maintenance Programme, included the replacement of inefficient non-condensing gas boilers with new high efficiency condensing boiler plant, a new Building Management System and replacing the heating infrastructure with new distribution pipework and low surface temperature heat emitters throughout the school.

These critical works needed to be completed during the summer holidays and close partnership work between all partners from the school, Westmorland and Furness Council, contractors and consultants was required to deliver the challenging work programme in time for September and the start of the Autumn term.

Cllr Sue Sanderson, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said:

“The success of this school maintenance project on behalf of Westmorland and Furness Council will allow the school to benefit from an efficient heating system at a crucial time as we head into the Winter months.  It will also go a long way to help reduce future school expenditure as everyone’s bills continue to rise.”

Cllr Peter Thornton, Cabinet Member for Highways and Assets, said:

“This modern system has increased the building’s seasonal efficiency from 79% to 98%, which is an excellent result as we work to meet out carbon reduction objectives.  This project will keep pupils and staff warmer whilst keeping the bills down.”

David Reddy, Headteacher at the school said:

“I was delighted with the joined-up approach to the heating project this summer! Meeting to discuss the schedule took place within a good time frame to ensure the works were completed to a high standard and on time.

I found all members of the team to be considerate, professional and hard-working. I am really pleased with the finished job and we are all looking forward to a warmer and more energy efficient winter here in school!”