CUSTOMER:
PROJECT:
Decarbonising Larkfield Leisure Centre Through Intelligent M&E Upgrades
This case study showcases DMA’s proactive approach to delivering complex, sustainability-focused building upgrades within live leisure environments. The Larkfield Leisure Centre project, commissioned by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, demonstrates our ability to deliver technically challenging works that align with government decarbonisation targets while maintaining essential public services.
Larkfield Leisure Centre, built between 1979 and 1981, required a complete mechanical and electrical renewal to address ageing plant and energy inefficiencies. As part of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), the project was designed to replace fossil-fuel systems with energy-efficient, low-carbon technologies, supporting the council’s long-term net zero objectives.
The Challenge
The project faced several logistical and operational challenges. The existing plant was at end-of0life, and ageing AHUs and boilers were impacting performance. A critical dependency on the District Network Operator (UKPN) for infrastructure upgrades created delays to the programme, while the swimming pool, a major public facility, had to remain open throughout.
DMA’s challenge was to plan, coordinate, and deliver these essential M&E works without disrupting public access or compromising safety and air quality within the pool hall.
The Approach
DMA worked collaboratively with Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council and UKPN to plan the works around live operations and tight programme constraints. Our team conducted detailed design reviews and site surveys to identify practical solutions for the Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) and Air Handling Unit (AHU) replacements, ensuring compliance with PSDS funding criteria.
To maintain uninterrupted operation of the swimming pool, we provided temporary ventilation systems during the AHU replacement. Each stage of the project was meticulously scheduled, with constant stakeholder communication to align construction sequencing with council operations and energy upgrade milestones.
The Solution
DMA implemented a complete decarbonisation retrofit, including:
- Installation of ASHPs to replace gas-fired boilers.
- Replacement of ageing AHUs with new air-to-air heat pump systems.
- Integration of a new Building Management System (BMS) for smart control.
- Electrical infrastructure upgrades, including a new DNO substation base, LV panel enclosure, and metered electrical supplies.
- Installation of 150 metres of trenching and ducting for new incoming electrical supply.
- Replacement of 150kW and 50kW plate heat exchangers.
- Supply and installation of circulation pumps and a thermal store to optimise system efficiency.
- Addition of new heat, water, and electrical meters to support long-term monitoring and reporting under PSDS.
All works were carried out within a 12-month delivery programme, with comprehensive coordination between trades, suppliers, and the local authority.
The Results
The Larkfield Leisure Centre project successfully delivered:
■ Substantial reduction in carbon emissions, aligning with PSDS and local net zero targets.
■ Improved building performance and energy efficiency, with long-term monitoring through Salix reporting.
■ Enhanced reliability and operational control through modernised plant and BMS integration.
■ Uninterrupted public access, thanks to careful planning and temporary systems during installation.
This project demonstrates DMA’s capability to deliver large-scale, sustainability driven M&E upgrades in complex live environments. Our ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders while maintaining operational continuity underscores our commitment to making buildings work better.
