Key Points
- Liverpool City Council advances district heat network plans to procurement phase via Advance Zoning Project.
- Project valued at up to £64.8m with work expected to start later this year.
- Initiative supports Liverpool City Region’s net zero strategy and Carbon Action Plan targeting 2035.
- Builds on Mersey Heat network launch, harnessing canal water for low-carbon heating.
Liverpool (Liverpool Standard) February 16, 2026 – Liverpool City Council has moved district heat network plans into the procurement stage as part of its accelerating net zero ambitions.
The Advance Zoning Project marks a key progression toward creating a city-wide district heat network, with the council now seeking a development partner for the initiative valued at up to £64.8m.
What is the Advance Zoning Project?
The Advance Zoning Project focuses on identifying and preparing zones for heat network deployment across Liverpool, enabling efficient low-carbon heating for homes and buildings.
According to Liverpool Express, the council is progressing to this major phase to deliver sustainable heating infrastructure amid growing demand for decarbonisation.
How does this fit into Liverpool’s net zero strategy?
This development aligns with the Liverpool City Region’s five-year Carbon Action Plan, aiming for net zero by 2035, including £40m investment to decarbonise 35 public buildings.
Which buildings will benefit from network expansions?
Extensions target waterfront landmarks such as the Georges Dock Building, Cunard Building, and Museum of Liverpool, integrating with the Mersey Heat network powered by canal water.
What progress has the Mersey Heat network achieved?
The Mersey Heat Energy Centre, developed by The Peel Group and Ener-Vate with £7.5m funding, now supplies low-carbon heat to Liverpool Waters, Titanic Hotel, and other sites via a 6km network.
Cllr Liam Robinson, Liverpool City Region Cabinet Member for Innovation, described the launch as a landmark moment in the journey to a cleaner future, cutting emissions by 4,200 tonnes annually and serving up to 6,700 homes.
