Mission Net Zero

9 Community Buildings 

Community buildings are the heartbeat of our neighborhoods; trusted spaces where people connect, learn, and find support. However, many of these vital hubs are currently struggling with outdated heating, poor insulation, and the rising costs of essential repairs.

To meet these challenges head-on, Bristol Energy Network (BEN), in partnership with Energy Tracers CIC / BH Consulting and Max Fordham, is proud to introduce the Community Building Support Package.

From Insight to Impact: A New Standard for Community Resilience

Our Community Building Support Package is more than just a repair plan, it is a strategic framework designed to move community spaces from surviving to thriving in a net-zero future. By combining advanced engineering with community engagement, we are creating a scalable blueprint for urban resilience.

Our Mission: Future-Proofing Local Hubs

We believe that neighborhood spaces should be warm, welcoming hubs in the winter and safe “cool spaces” during summer heatwaves. To achieve this, we have partnered with engineering experts at Max Fordham and technical specialists from Energy Tracers CIC / BH Consulting to develop a comprehensive support model.

The Core Elements of the Support Package

  • Expert-Led Energy Tracing: Using professional thermal assessments to identify exactly where buildings are losing energy and where efficiency can be gained.

  • Bespoke Decarbonization Roadmaps: Translating technical data into practical, phased strategies that guide building managers toward a Net Zero vision.

  • Tailored Mentorship: One-on-one sessions to empower local leaders, helping them navigate their unique reports and plan for future renovations.

  • Scalable Innovation: This project is developing a replicable method that could eventually support over 200 community buildings across Bristol and beyond.

Our Flagship Pilot Sites

We are proud to be working with nine trailblazing community buildings across the city to test and refine this approach. These sites represent the incredible diversity of Bristol's community architecture and governance:

  1. Knowle West Media Centre (KWMC)

  2. Avonmouth Community Centre

  3. The Greenway Centre (Annex)

  4. Henbury and Brentry Community Centre

  5. St Anne’s House (Bricks)

  6. Shirehampton Public Hall Community Association

  7. Fishponds Old Library

  8. Zion Bristol

  9. Felix Road Adventure Playground