Red hot green power
Summer might be approaching but three community buildings can celebrate future winter warmth thanks to green energy windfalls totalling £50,000.
The Lake District Sustainable Development Fund (SDF) is digging deep into its coffers to support schemes set to bring lasting benefit to countless people.
Britain’s highest youth hostel, 100 year old Skiddaw House, is three miles from the nearest road, 1550 feet above sea level, remote and exposed.
A £26,000 SDF hand-out means the hostel - six miles from Keswick and once a refuge for shepherds - can now install solar electric panels on its roof and natural fleece insulation on its inner walls.
SDF co-ordinator, Clive Wickham, said the scheme would ultimately have a big impact on heating bills and help secure the future of a much loved and well-used hostel.
Bassenthwaite’s Bassenfell Christian Outdoor Centre gets £12,000 towards wood fuel heating. The centre is committed to sharing sustainable energy messages with its 3,200 annual guests. The £100,000 biomass system is expected to slash heating costs by over 40 per cent.
And Ulpha village hall also benefits to the tune of nearly £12,000 towards natural fleece insulation to help with an £85,000 major refurbishment. Plans include alterations to the old timber frame and corrugated steel panelled building designed to cut carbon emissions.
Clive said The Browfoot Room plays an important part in the community, despite rotting timber, ageing portable toilets and lack of mains water.
He added: “Far-reaching renovation will provide facilities to meet the needs of existing and future generations. We are pleased to be able to help make the building both more comfortable and more energy efficient.”
SDF has helped over 470 community and environmental schemes with grants ranging from £40,000 to £50.
With £180,000 currently in the funding pot, it is particularly keen to support projects which have a climate change or renewable energy focus. For further information contact Clive on 01539 792661, email clive.wickham@lakedistrict.gov.uk (opens in new window).
