Blackpool Eco-Hub at Palatine Library
Blackpool’s first-ever Eco-Hub, officially opened in July 2024 at Palatine Library. This innovative space has been transformed into an operationally net zero building, showcasing real solutions for sustainable living.
Inside the Eco-Hub
The Eco-Hub features:
- Air-source heat pumps and solar panels
- Fully upgraded LED lighting
- A beautiful living wall of plants
- A rain garden that manages stormwater naturally
- A mini-demonstrator suite showing real examples of eco-tech in action
Free advice and support
Run by Groundwork in partnership with Blackpool Council, the Eco-Hub is your one-stop-shop for free, impartial energy advice. Our team of friendly, trained advisors are here to help with:
- Home retrofit advice (improving energy efficiency in existing buildings)
- How renewable technologies like solar panels and heat pumps work
- Understanding grants, subsidies, and financing options
- Help with energy bills, smart meters, and tariffs
- Easy ways to save energy and water at home
Whether you’re a homeowner or landlord, you can find guidance on transforming your home for a more sustainable future.
Meet the eco-coaches
The dedicated eco-coaches offer hands-on help to reduce your energy use and bills. They provide:
- Home energy assessments
- Behavioural advice to cut energy use
- Free or low-cost devices like:
- Draught proofing
- Low-energy light bulbs
- Radiator reflector panels
- Support in dealing with energy suppliers or switching providers
- Help accessing schemes like CHIL (Cosy Homes in Lancashire) for heating system upgrades or small-scale interventions
Urban nature and flood resilience
Nature plays a big role at the Eco-Hub. As part of a wider climate resilience strategy, the building incorporates green and blue infrastructure, like:
- The rain garden, reducing flood risk naturally
- The living wall, improving air quality and biodiversity
In 2023/24, Blackpool Council also distributed 1,611 free water butts to local households—saving water, reducing bills, and easing pressure on drains during heavy rain.
Get involved
Want to learn more or take action? Here’s how:
- Visit the Eco-Hub at Palatine Library
- Check out our live demonstrator suite
- Join a session – workshops and talks are held regularly
- Sign up to the Net Zero Business Academy
Learn more about the Blackpool Eco Hub.
Opening times
If you’d like to improve the energy efficiency of your home, call into the Blackpool Eco-Hub from 10.00am to 4.00pm Monday to Tuesday, Thursday to Friday (closed Wednesdays) or call 01253 226 477.
Eco hub workshops
The eco-hub host workshops on retrofit and low-carbon and renewable energy technologies. These workshops are open to the public, providing valuable information and hands-on learning experiences.
Places can be booked via telephone on 01253 226477, or email: blackpoolecohomes@groundwork.org.uk