Redhills goes green with energy revamp

A Durham heritage site is set to embrace green energy with the installation of sustainable energy systems as part of a £10 million redevelopment.

The Durham Miners' Hall, also known as Redhills, a 109-year-old Grade-II building which was constructed when the Durham coalfield employed more than 150,000 workers, is home to the Pitman’s Parliament and is a symbol of the region’s mining heritage.

Yet such was the condition of the building, described as being in a “state of disrepair and jeopardy”, that a multimillion-pound restoration was required.

The renovation, led by the Durham Miners' Association and Meldrum Construction Services, features contributions from local businesses, including from Oakes Energy. 

The Houghton-le-Spring-based firm, which provides renewable energy solutions, is installing a ground-source heat pump that will supply 107kW of clean thermal energy; enough to meet the annual thermal energy requirements of the entire site.

Nik Smith, director at Oakes Energy Services, said: “We’re proud to bring our expertise in renewable energy to the transformation of Durham Miners Hall, a site of immense historical significance. 

“Turning a building once tied to the coal industry into one powered by clean energy is a powerful symbol of progress, honouring the past while embracing a more sustainable future.

“By integrating state-of-the-art ground source heat pump technology, we are ensuring that this iconic building is not only preserved but also future-proofed with sustainable, efficient energy solutions. 

“We look forward to seeing Redhills thrive as a beacon of green energy for generations to come.”

Peter McCormick, senior building services engineer at Oakes Energy Services, added: “As someone born and raised in Durham and the son of a former Durham miner, this project feels very symbolic to me. 

“It is a building of immense historical importance and it’s a privilege to be involved in helping it live on for many years to come, whilst utilising renewable technologies for a cleaner, sustainable future.”

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