Plans have been approved for the first phase of a £9.5 million district heating scheme in Aberdeen.

The Torry District Heating Network aims to provide low-cost heating for residents in the area. The council has now agreed to move to the next stage of the project, which is to undertake stakeholder engagment.

Other approved plans includes appointing a project team and developing a business case, procurement strategy and a project plan, subject to the estimated Phase 1 costs being allocated in the council's Capital Plan.

According to a report, Phase 1 of the network would cover 814 homes, largely Council-owned with 80 in Housing Association ownership. The approximate length of Phase 1 heat network is 7.3km.

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In addition, Torry primary school, swimming pool and community centre would be connected, while discussions are taking place with The Robert Gordon University about potentially using the system in the future.

A feasibility study by consulting engineering group Ramboll Energy identified an economic case for the first phase of the network in Torry.

The company put forward three options for the development, recommending option 2 be taken forward. The scheme would result in householders saving £2.07 million in costs over the life of the project, equating to heating bills on average 14% less than the comparable gas costs. In addition, 107,666 tonnes of CO2 would be saved throughout the lifetime of the project.

Cllr Neil Cooney said: "It is to be welcomed the next stage of the project has been approved today as it will look into the benefits to residents more thoroughly and engage with them and other stakeholders.

"The Torry District Heat Network will delivers fuel cost savings to householders and thereby contribute to reduced fuel poverty, and achieve a more environmentally sustainable heat delivery system for those householders."

(LM)