Decarbonisation programme works continue at the Apex

13 Jul 2026

The final stage of the decarbonisation works at the Apex has begun as part of an ongoing commitment to reducing energy costs, carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency.

The programme of works include a series of improvements such as replacing gas boilers with air source heat pumps, light-emitting diode (LED) lighting upgrades, and the removal of gas systems replaced with electrical equipment. The upgrades to the building will cut its energy use, reduce heating bills and help tackle climate change.

Phase one of the work was completed in the summer of 2025, with the second phase commenced in the spring of 2026.

The final stage of the work will begin in July through to September and includes replacement and efficiency upgrades of the rest of the heating, cooling and ventilation plant.

The total project carbon emissions would be reduced from 127.62 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions per annum, to 71.23 tonnes CO2 per annum. This is the equivalent of taking approximately 12 to 13 petrol cars off the roads.

The council’s decarbonisation fund provided £1.1 million for the decarbonisation project, and the remaining £1.01 million was funded from West Suffolk Council’s Asset Management Plan reserve.

The Apex will continue to remain open throughout the summer, with the final phase of the works programme taking place at the same time as The Apex’s usual maintenance works, where there are no shows or events taking place.

Drivers can expect slight disruption as the School Yard East Car Park will be closed for a contractor’s site compound, from Monday 13 July to Friday 4 September. The electric vehicle (EV) charging points will not be affected.

St Andrews Street South will be closed to traffic behind the Apex from Monday 20 July to Friday 31 July due to two cranes lifting equipment on and off the building. Pedestrian routes will not be affected by the road closure.

Cllr Gerald Kelly, Cabinet Member for Governance, Regulatory and Environment at West Suffolk Council, said: “As one of West Suffolk’s busiest and an energy-intensive venue, improving the efficiency of the Apex will deliver meaningful environmental and financial benefits to residents and visitors.

“Due to the heating systems in The Apex nearing end of life, we used it as an opportunity for a total decarbonisation of the site and lighting upgrade. The installation of energy-saving measures will significantly enable the building to use cleaner energy and consume less of it. While these improvements will help reduce energy costs, they are also an important step in addressing climate change, future-proofing our public buildings and strengthening environmental resilience across West Suffolk.”

Cllr Ian Shipp, Cabinet Member for Leisure at West Suffolk Council, said: “The Apex is a vital part of Bury St Edmund’s thriving town centre, bring people together through live performances, exhibitions, community events and a wide range of activities.

“The venue also attracts visitors from across the region, contributing to the local economy and supporting sustainable growth. These improvements will enhance the building’s efficiency, helping to secure its long-term future so it can continue to benefit residents, visitors and communities for many years to come.”

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