Air Source Heat Pump Installation in Padstow

Padstow is one of the most heritage-constrained markets in Cornwall, but also one of the strongest for heat pump installation — 88% of properties are off the mains gas grid, oil deliveries are a persistent challenge on narrow harbour streets, and property owners here typically have the financial resources to invest in a premium system done properly.

The planning landscape in the historic core

The medieval harbour quarter of Padstow is almost entirely within the conservation area and contains 162 heritage entries, including 2 Grade I and 11 Grade II* listed buildings. External heat pump unit placement on listed properties requires Listed Building Consent. In practice, this usually means siting the outdoor unit at the rear, within an enclosed courtyard, or in a position not visible from the public highway. Cornwall Council's conservation team has approved heat pumps on listed Padstow properties where siting and noise planning (42 dB(A) at nearest property boundary) have been addressed from the start. We handle the planning coordination as part of the project.

The opportunity in the surrounding villages

Trevone, St Merryn, Constantine Bay, Treyarnon Bay, and Harlyn Bay — all within the wider Padstow catchment — are straightforward retrofit opportunities with no conservation constraints. Post-war bungalows and modern detached homes make up the majority of the stock, with large rear gardens for outdoor unit siting and typical domestic electrical installations. These properties represent the easiest heat pump retrofits we do.

Holiday let market and EPC requirements

Padstow has one of the highest concentrations of holiday lets in Cornwall. Proposed legislation requiring holiday lets to meet EPC Band C by 2028 is driving heat pump enquiries from property owners who know an oil boiler replacement will not hit Band C without additional measures. A heat pump, combined with minor insulation upgrades, typically delivers Band B or C for most Padstow property types — and the £7,500 BUS grant makes the economics compelling.

We survey all properties before quoting and provide a realistic planning assessment for heritage properties as part of the survey — at no cost. Book a free survey.