WORK has begun on a programme of energy saving upgrades at Barley Village Hall, mainly financed by Lancashire Environmental Fund together with some support from Barley Parish Council.
The works will involve re-slating and felting the 150-year-old roof, and insulating the roof space using processed natural sheep wool.
The natural sheep’s wool gives a very high level of insulation and lasts for approximately 50 years.
Existing solar panels which were installed six-and-half years ago, and the first of such installations in the area, are being re-instated with an upgraded control system.
Windows which were not included in previous improvements will be fitted with double-glazed units custom made to retain the character of the building.
The village hall committee is working to increase the usage of this excellent facility by groups, private bookings and celebrations both local and from the surrounding area, and committee members feel that the sustainable energy improvements will attract new users who care about the environment and want a comfortable venue.
For further information visit www.barleyvillagehall.org.uk or contact David Weatherill, chairman of Barley Village Hall Committee on 01282 613280.
The Lancashire Environmental Fund is a partnership between SITA UK Ltd, Lancashire County Council, The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside and Community Futures.
The fund has distributed over £17 million of Landfill Communities Fund support to community and environmental projects which benefit the environment and people of Lancashire since its start in 1998, with donations from SITA UK Ltd and Neales Waste Management Ltd, together with a contribution from Lancashire County Council.
Community and environmental groups can apply for awards from £3,000 to £40,000. Projects to date have included improvements to community facilities, environmental education, general environmental improvements, creation and management of habitats, improvements to parks, gardens, open spaces, play areas, recreational facilities, ponds, canals and rivers and biodiversity. Groups can apply online at www.lancsenvfund.org.uk
For further information about Lancashire Environmental Fund contact Anne Kingston, communications officer, at LEF on 01772 317248 or mobile 07843 079574, or email annekingston@lancsenvfund.org.uk or visit www.lancsenvfund.org.uk