Theatre in Reading could be the first in the country to use ground-source heat pumps to warm its audiences

The Good News -

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As part of its redevelopment, The Hexagon in Reading could become the first theatre in the UK to use naturally occurring underground water for its heating and cooling needs. In a significant stride toward a carbon-neutral future, The Hexagon Theatre's planned low-carbon heating and cooling solution - ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) - aligns with Reading Borough Council's ambitious goal to make the town carbon-free by 2030. 

In addition to the ground source heat pumps, air source heat pumps will be installed to supplement heating and cooling during periods of high demand. This dual system ensures that the theatre remains comfortable for audiences while maintaining efficiency and sustainability.

Project Background

During the summer, Drift Services Group drilled two boreholes, each 120 meters deep and 35 centimetres wide, to assess the site’s suitability. Tests confirmed that the chalk aquifer beneath the area could support the theatre's heating needs. Key findings included:

• The ability to extract 15 litres of water per second.
• Efficient heat transfer through a pump system with minimal environmental impact.
• Quick water level recovery, ensuring sustainability and negligible disruption to the surrounding area.

The results validated the project's feasibility, leading the council to apply for a license from the Environment Agency to utilise the boreholes for this purpose.

Quotes Relating to the Project -

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“We are committed to using innovative ways to make our buildings carbon neutral for the future of Reading and our residents. 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.” - Councillor Liz Terry, Leader of the Council

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“Our drilling and testing of the boreholes at The Hexagon confirmed the presence of high-quality water in the aquifer, ensuring not only the required flow rates but also the efficient return of water to the aquifer — an essential factor for the system’s performance and the sustainable nature of this clean, green energy solution.” - Richard Lane, Director, Drift Services Group

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“The ambitious project at The Hexagon theatre will transform this iconic community venue in the heart of Reading and offer significant benefits to both the council and community.” - Ian Rodger, Director of Programmes at Salix

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Technology Specifications

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Ground source heat pumps operate by extracting heat from naturally flowing underground water. Water is drawn to the surface through boreholes, where a heat pump captures its warmth. The cooler water is then returned underground, completing the cycle. This method is not only sustainable but also efficient, offering a modern approach to reducing carbon emissions in buildings.

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Funding and Collaboration

A £19.1 million grant from the government's Levelling Up Fund will fund the redevelopment of The Hexagon. Salix's Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme will support the implementation of the heat pump system.

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A Sustainable Vision for Reading

The Hexagon’s redevelopment is part of a larger vision for Reading’s Minster Quarter, a regeneration project to revitalise the town’s cultural and community spaces. This initiative demonstrates how innovative energy solutions can transform public venues into sustainability models, reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a greener future.

As the council progresses toward implementing this pioneering project, it will serve as a beacon of how local governments can embrace renewable energy to meet environmental goals and community needs.

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What’s Next?

Pending approval from the Environment Agency, installation of the ground-source heat pumps will begin, bringing The Hexagon one step closer to becoming a leader in sustainable theatre operations. With continued collaboration among experts, stakeholders, and the local government, The Hexagon is poised to set a new standard for energy-efficient public buildings.

Through projects like this, Reading reaffirms its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and creating a better future for its residents and visitors.

For further information on this article, please visit: https://media.reading.gov.uk/news/hexagon-could-be-first-theatre-in-country-to-use-ground-source-heat-pumps-to-keep-audiences-warm