Agenda item

Report of the Interim Executive Director, Environment.

Members considered a report of the Interim Executive Director, Environment which provided an update on the works completed to date.

An Officer stated that the cathedral lighting was over 30 years old and was out of date in terms of technology and energy use. The Corporation had historically managed the lighting and once of the outcomes of this process was to hand control over to the cathedral. The Officer stated that the lighting trial was intended to prove the concepts and demonstrate the control that could be applied over the lighting of the cathedral. The ambition was to better reveal the architecture of the building at night, to improve the quality of the lit environment and to look at how technology could better deliver a low energy solution with approximately a 75% reduction in energy. There were considerable heritage considerations. The Officer reported that the trial was a success with a significant amount of positive feedback. Detailed design would now take place. He added there was considerable work needed to be undertaken around the consent process particularly with the cathedral itself and in relation to the buildings adjacent to the cathedral. The Officer stated the complexity of having to deliver the lighting on such an important building.

Members were shown a number of photographs from the lighting trial which focussed on the west elevation. Members were shown comparisons between the current lighting and the lighting trial with the concept of light coming from within the building to show that it was a live building and a place of worship. The new lighting would reveal the architecture of the building, showing depth and architectural details and features that were currently in shadow. The colour of the lighting would make the building stand out in the local and wider environment. The trials provided a good opportunity to test different levels of lighting with the gradual dimming of lighting throughout the night.

Members were also shown photographs from key points across London. Members were informed that the new lighting would be warmer than that of many other buildings so the Cathedral dome would be more visible.

In response to a Member’s question about costs, an Officer stated that this would be part of the next stage with the detailed design work as part of the quantity surveyor process. Officers had worked to secure funding from a number of external sources. The Corporation would also contribute and would continue to look at funding as the programme evolved.

The Chairman asked Officers to outline the operational costs once the lighting was completed. An Officer stated that the cost would transfer to St Paul’s Cathedral. The energy and maintenance costs would reduce and would be affordable for the cathedral to take on.

A Member asked if it was possible to shorten the timeframe. An Officer stated that the timeframe was realistic given the required permissions and consents which were outside the Corporation’s control. He added that the cathedral was fully engaged with the process. After this time, there could be ways to accelerate the process. Officers would keep Members informed.

In response to a Member’s questions, an Officer stated that the delivery phase was not just the time on site but also included fixtures and fittings being made. The procurement process would be followed for the supply of these. The Officer added that challenges in delivering the lighting scheme would include the heritage nature of the building and services taking place which meant there would have to be phased working hours.

In response to a Member’s question about funding sources, an Officer stated these were included on page 151 of the agenda pack.

In response to a Member’s question, an Officer stated that the project aligned with the Climate Action Strategy objectives and moving the City towards net zero.

The Chairman asked about engagement with Historic England. An Officer stated that the individuals involved had been positive and consultation would be taking place.

The Chairman asked for further details on who was on the joint project board. An Officer confirmed it comprised Officers, external experts and representatives from St Paul’s Cathedral. The Officer also confirmed that there was currently one project manager who was an Officer.

RESOLVED – That Members of the Sub-Committee

1.        Approve the procurement and appointment of services required to reach the next Gateway;

2.        Approve the additional budget of £705,000 funded from the S106 contributions allocated to the project (£640,000) and the previously approved £1.16M capital bid (£65,000) as detailed in Finance Tables in Appendix 2; and

3.        Note the revised budget of 1,380,000 (excluding risk).