Regeneration
Ryecroft Community Centre improvements complete, creating net zero exemplar for Walsall
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Work has now been completed at Ryecroft Community Centre, transforming the building into a net zero exemplar and demonstrating how existing community buildings can be retrofitted to face challenges of climate change.
The project, supported by Walsall Council and delivered in partnership with local organisations, has turned the Ryecroft Community Hub into a leading example of low carbon, energy efficient design. The completed works significantly reduce the building’s carbon footprint while improving comfort, resilience and long-term sustainability.
The centre has received £325,995 funding from Walsall Council’s Community Capital programme, which is funded by the Government’s Town Deal, the works have delivered major energy efficiency upgrades to the centre. The project included external wall insulation, new high-performance windows, LED lighting, solar panel installation, a suspended ceiling system and electric vehicle charging points transforming the building into a much more efficient, futureproof facility.
Ryecroft Community Centre will now act as an exemplar demonstration of low-carbon technology in action, allowing residents, community groups and local businesses to see net zero principles in action. The centre will offer support to businesses and residents to explore funding available, such as carbon credits that can be obtained to retrofit homes to save people money.
“ Completing the improvements at Ryecroft Community Centre is a major achievement and a statement of our commitment to our Walsall net zero 2041 strategy. This building is now a net zero exemplar showing clearly how existing community assets can be upgraded to cut carbon, reduce energy costs and create warmer, more sustainable spaces for residents. Ryecroft will play a vital role in inspiring others across the borough to take practical steps towards a greener future “
“ Since the work has been completed, it’s had a positive impact at the Centre. The user groups have commented on how much warmer the centre is compared to before. One new user to our centre made a comment saying, “This is the best centre we have visited. It’s so warm and welcoming and looks really good”. Since the work has been carried out, it’s enabled us to attract 5 new user groups to the centre. The improvement is allowing a better customer experience whilst enabling growth and achieving the targets towards Walsall’s net zero. “
Matthew Bailey, divisional director at Speller Metcalfe, who delivered the works, added: “We’re proud to have transformed Ryecroft Community Centre into a net zero exemplar, showing how existing buildings can be upgraded for energy efficiency, comfort, and long-term sustainability. It’s great to see the positive impact this facility is providing for the community and Walsall Council.”
The project supports Walsall Council’s wider ambitions to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency and support communities through the transition to net zero, while ensuring vital local facilities remain fit for the future.
