Woodgate Resources Centre is more than 100 years old, but it now boasts some of the latest energy-saving equipment. The former library, built in 1898, has received over £100,000 worth of funding to help it become a leading light for environmental building.
A 3.4 kilowatt photo-voltaic system on the roof captures the sun’s rays, allowing the centre to generate its own electricity. Centre Co-ordinator Geoff Forse says the system has already produced 500 kilowatts of electricity since it was installed four months ago. The centre also has its own solar thermal system, using two large roof panels, to help heat up the water used in the kitchen and the toilets.
Geoff says: “The association has tried to make the centre more environmentally friendly because that is just what we believe in. The energy-saving equipment is a useful way for us to save money, but it is also important for its demonstration value. We get at least 1,000 users a month, so it’s a great opportunity for many people to see what can be done.”
As well as reducing energy consumption, the centre has also started to conserve water using a rainwater recycling system. Rain collected on the roof ends up in a huge tank in the courtyard, which saves water for flushing toilets.
The Victorian premises has some beautiful original features, but they have led to certain limitations for environmental design. For example, most of the building has double glazing, but secondary glazing had to be used on old leaded windows. And some of the external walls are only single brick - although Geoff hopes to install dry lining to reduce the heat loss in future.
But it’s not just about bricks and mortar at Woodgate Resources Centre. Local people have been inspired to take part in a wide range of green activities, from cultivating a community allotment to taking part in a hanging basket scheme to brighten up Woodgate. Geoff and his team have proved even an old building can be used to inspire a whole new way of caring for the environment.
For further details call Centre Co-ordinator Geoff Forse on 0116 253 0717.
Outstanding environmental features:
Solar thermal system, photo-voltaic system and rainwater harvesting system
Other green features:
On-site composting, insulation, low-energy lighting, gas condensing boiler, draught lobby entrance, urinal flushing controls, low-VOC paints