The New Art Gallery Walsall is getting a green makeover as part of a project to cut carbon emissions and reduce energy use, thanks to funding from the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Work is currently underway to replace the Gallery’s old heating system with modern, eco-friendly air source heat pumps. Solar panels will also be installed on the building to help generate clean electricity, along with new double glazing, efficient hot water taps, and other upgrades to make the building use less energy overall.
These improvements will make the 25-year-old Gallery much more energy-efficient, helping to save money on bills and cut pollution. Experts estimate the upgrades will save around 89 tonnes of carbon dioxide (equivalent) each year, around the same as taking 55 petrol cars off the road for a year, and more than 1,717 tonnes over the life of the new equipment, comparable to taking 1,070 petrol cars off the road for a year.
This work supports Walsall Council’s goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2041, a plan launched in June 2025 that aims to make the borough a healthier, greener, and more prosperous place to live, work, and do business.
“ These improvements will enhance energy efficiency in the Gallery, helping reduce both energy bills and carbon emissions as we work towards our 2041 net zero target. With 60% of residents concerned about climate change and 90% wanting organisations to work together on solutions, we’re proud that our buildings continue to lead the way in local climate action.”
“This work is yet another step in our move towards a Net Zero Walsall. In recent times, we have installed solar panels and energy efficiency upgrades, showcasing the economic benefits transitioning towards Net Zero can bring. “
Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing at Walsall Council.
£602,532 to decarbonise both the Gallery as well as Bloxwich Launchpad. Bloxwich Launchpad is a project which will offer facilities and support to help entrepreneurs in Walsall, while also offering digital support and training.
The funding comes via 2 grant sources:
£558,010 from through Phase 3c of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, which is run by the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero and delivered by Salix Finance.
£44,522 from the UK Shared Prosperity fund, part of the UK government funding awarded to the West Midlands administered by the West Midland Combined Authority.
The Gallery is open as usual during these works, which are due to be completed by the end of September 2025.