The Torry project’s Phase One was given the go-ahead by councillors on Aberdeen City Council’s communities, housing and infrastructure committee after they agreed to move to the stakeholder engagement part of the project.

A further recommendation was agreed to appoint a project team, and develop a business case, procurement strategy and project plan to deliver this project subject to the allocation of the estimated Phase 1 Torry District Heating Network project cost in the council’s Capital Plan.

The committee also agreed the estimated Phase 1 Torry District Heating Network project cost will be put forward for consideration in the Council’s budget process.

Aberdeen City Council communities, housing and infrastructure convener, Councillor Neil Cooney, said: “It is to be welcomed the next stage of the project has been approved today as it will look into the benefits to residents more thoroughly and engage with them and other stakeholders.

“The Torry District Heat Network will delivers fuel cost savings to householders and thereby contribute to reduced fuel poverty, and achieve a more environmentally sustainable heat delivery system for those householders.”

A report before committee said Phase 1 of the District Heating Network would cover 814 homes, largely council-owned with 80 in housing association ownership. The approximate length of Phase 1 heat network is 7.3km.

There are a number of privately owned properties within the Phase 1 area but no assumption has been made that these will connect to the District Heating System. Future connection of private properties represents an opportunity for further enhancement of the Business Case for the District Heating project and the private householders would also benefit from lower heating bills.

In addition, the report said, Torry primary school, swimming pool and community centre would be connected. There has been discussions with Robert Gordon University about potentially using the system in the future.