Westminster Conservatives Challenge Labour-led Council Over PDHU Delay
At tonight's Full Council meeting, Cllr Ed Pitt Ford (Conservative) pressed Cabinet Member Cllr Lisa Begum (Labour) on why the long-awaited decision on the Pimlico District Heating Undertaking (PDHU) has been delayed until late 2026.
Cllr Begum confirmed work was “still continuing,” but residents are right to question yet another delay from Labour’s administration that prioritises playground politics over real action for residents.
Conservative Cllr Pitt Ford also secured a commitment that regular resident and leaseholder meetings will continue to ensure local people stay informed despite the Labour's dithering and delay.
Watch Cllr Pitt Ford hold Labour to account and read the transcript below.
Cllr Ed Pitt Ford (Conservative):
What was the reason for delaying the decision on the Pimlico District Heating Undertaking (PDHU) until later in 2026?
Cllr Lisa Begum (Labour):
The decision-making process has been delayed, but that doesn’t mean the project has stopped. Work is still continuing as we assess the shortlisted options, along with two new direct electric options we’ve added for consideration. So, while the final decision has been postponed, the project itself remains active and ongoing.
Cllr Ed Pitt Ford (Conservative):
Will the Cabinet continue holding residents’ working meetings to update them on progress since last year?
Cllr Lisa Begum (Labour):
Yes, we are reviewing our engagement process. We will definitely continue to work with the Resident Technical Working Group, and we also plan to increase our engagement with leaseholders, tenants, and commercial stakeholders.
Westminster Conservatives will keep pressing Labour-led Council for transparency, urgency, and clear communication with the residents who rely on Pimlico’s district heating network.
