Delays to power supply upgrade could hit events at Cheltenham’s Imperial Gardens
It has affected plans for this year's ice rink.
There are concerns over delays to power supply upgrades for events at Cheltenham’s Imperial Gardens.
Cheltenham Borough Councillors say they had been promised last year that work to upgrade the grid there would have been started in time to power this year’s ice rink in the town - but the event will now be powered using biofuel generators which have sparked environmental concerns.
The borough council says it is looking into whether it can use funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
They have appointed engineering design firm Hydrock to work with them and National Grid to develop a design and specification for any required infrastructure.
And proposals for any upgraded needed to support events in the gardens is expected to be provided to the council early in 2024.
Councillors will then be able to make a decision on the wider risks and benefits of the scheme.
However, Councillor Seacome is concerned as they have been promising the upgrade for some time. “We were certainly promised it last year for this year,” he said.
“Let us hope, in the interests of the residents of Imperial Square and the climate, that the supply is produced by electricity rather than by any liquid fuel.”
Economic development, culture, tourism and wellbeing cabinet member Max Wilkinson (LD, Oakley) said in his response that it is an important issue and explained the steps the council is taking.
“Cllr Seacome is a close follower of matters in Imperial Square and of discussions at this council. Therefore, he will know that it is correct to say that this authority is seeking to install electrical power sources for events.
“However, the position stated on the ice rink for this year, and until electrical infrastructure is installed, was to not use traditional diesel generators and instead pursue alternative energy supplies.
“That is exactly what we are aiming to do this winter, by using an hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) fuel and battery method.
“This innovative solution is being provided by a locally based company at the leading edge of its field. This technology will make a substantial cut in event emissions compared to a traditional diesel generator.
“The emissions will, of course, be measured and reported on after the event, but the amount of HVO fuel used will be reliant on the weather.
“Crucially for residents of Imperial Square, the hyperlocal air quality impacts of a diesel generator will be vastly reduced too.
“We are extremely pleased to have moved away from the traditional diesel fuel option which most outdoor events regularly rely upon.
“It is a huge step forward for the council’s climate goals and one which we will look to build on.
“Work is underway to understand how we may be able to increase the fixed power supply to Imperial Gardens using the funding secured through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
“Hydrock, an engineering design company, have been appointed to work with the council and National Grid to develop a design and specification for any required infrastructure.
“A proposal for any required infrastructure to deliver the power required to support events in the gardens is expected to be provided to the council early in 2024 when members will be able to take a decision on the wider risks and benefits of proceeding.”