Reading’s Hexagon Theatre Set to Pioneer Ground Source Heat Pumps in UK Theatres

The Hexagon theatre in Reading is expected to be the first venue of its kind in the UK to implement ground source heat pumps for audience heating. These pumps operate by capturing heat from naturally occurring underground water. This low-carbon heating solution aligns with Reading Borough Council’s objective to achieve a carbon-free town by 2030. Council Leader Liz Terry stated: “We are committed to using innovative ways to make our buildings carbon neutral for the future of Reading and our residents.” The funding for this redevelopment comes from a £19.1m grant provided by the government’s Levelling Up Fund. This past summer, contractors excavated two boreholes, each 120m deep and 35cm wide, to assess if the underground water’s flow and temperature were adequate for The Hexagon complex’s heating requirements. The tests indicated that 15 litres of water per second could be drawn to the surface for a heat pump, which would then extract the heat for use in the building before returning the water at a reduced temperature downstream. Throughout the testing, water levels rapidly replenished after extraction, suggesting a negligible environmental effect on the vicinity. The council has since submitted an application to the Environment Agency (EA) to obtain a licence for utilizing these boreholes for the intended purpose. Ms Terry commented: “The Hexagon could be the first theatre which uses water which is naturally running many metres below us to heat and cool the space to make it comfortable for audiences who come and watch the wide range of shows we have to offer.” Drift Service Group conducted the exploratory work, and its director, Richard Lane, expressed that he was “delighted to have played a key role in delivering this landmark project”. Readers can follow BBC Berkshire on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.