Inner City Environmental (ICE), part of the Downwell Group, is delivering specialist asbestos removal and remediation works at the British Museum as part of its major Energy Centre Programme. Delivered in support of Downwell Enabling and principal contractor Dalkia UK, the project forms a key component of the Museum’s long-term Masterplan to upgrade critical infrastructure and improve energy efficiency.
The British Museum is a Grade I listed building and one of the world’s most visited cultural institutions, welcoming approximately 6.5 million visitors in 2024. Works within this environment require meticulous planning and execution to protect both the historic fabric and invaluable collections housed within the estate.
Scope of Works
ICE’s works focus on the safe removal of asbestos-containing materials across basement plant areas associated with a major heating system upgrade. This includes:
- Asbestos removal within plant rooms and service areas
- Remediation works in pipework trenches and basement infrastructure
- Enabling safe access for excavation and structural modifications
- Supporting the upgrade and installation of new mechanical services
These works are critical to facilitating the installation of modern, low-carbon heating technologies, including air-source and water-source heat pumps.
Key Challenges
Delivering asbestos remediation at the British Museum presents a number of complex challenges:
- Live operational environment with the Museum open to the public at all times
- Heritage sensitivity, working within a Grade I listed building
- Restricted access and confined spaces within basement areas
- Protection of artefacts and building fabric throughout all works
- Coordination with multiple stakeholders, including Dalkia and Museum teams
ICE implements stringent control measures, including isolations, system draindowns, environmental monitoring, and segregation of work areas to ensure minimal disruption and maximum safety.
Sustainability & Impact
The Energy Centre Programme is designed to significantly improve the Museum’s sustainability performance. ICE’s works contribute directly to:
- Installation of low-carbon heating systems
- Reduction of approximately 1,700 tonnes of CO₂ annually
- Supporting long-term operational resilience and energy efficiency
This aligns with both the Museum’s sustainability objectives and broader industry commitments to carbon reduction.
Delivery & Compliance
All works are delivered in full compliance with:
- Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) 2012
- Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM) 2015
- HSE licensing and best practice standards
ICE’s collaborative approach, working closely with Downwell Group teams and project stakeholders, ensures safe, compliant, and efficient delivery within a highly constrained and high-profile environment.
Outcome
This project demonstrates ICE’s capability to deliver complex asbestos remediation works within one of the UK’s most sensitive and prestigious heritage environments. Through a combination of technical expertise, rigorous safety standards, and collaborative delivery, ICE is enabling critical infrastructure upgrades while safeguarding a world-renowned cultural landmark.
