Decision details

Whether or not to collaborate further with the University on Carbon reduction projects.

Matter for Decision: On 8 July 2013 Strategy & Resources Committee supported a Memorandum of Understanding to be signed with the University of Cambridge to investigate a district heating scheme for central Cambridge. A Sponsors Board was then established to lead the work and three city councillors were appointed to the Board. The Board subsequently met and received further advice when it became clear that the business case for the proposed scheme was no longer expected to be financially viable. The Board therefore resolved not to undertake further work on the scheme. Arup consultants were, however, commissioned to establish if there were other options for collaboration on strategic carbon initiatives between the Council and the University. The conclusions of this work was included in this report and it was recommended that the two organisations keep open the opportunity to explore possible future heat connections between City Council and University Buildings.

Decision of the Executive Councillor for Finance and Resources 

The Executive Councillor resolved:

i.       To note the decision of the District Heating Scheme Sponsors Board not to pursue the proposed central Cambridge District Heating Scheme.

ii.     To support future collaboration between the Council and the University of Cambridge on strategic carbon initiatives where there was a strong environmental and financially viable business case.

Reasons for the Decision: As set out in the officer’s report

Any alternative options considered and rejected: As set out in the officer’s report

Scrutiny Considerations:

The committee received a report from the Director of Environment.

The Scrutiny Committee considered the recommendations and endorsed them unanimously.

The Executive Councillor approved the recommendations.

Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Executive Councillor (and any Dispensations Granted):

Not applicable.