Grants on offer to boost energy efficiency

PROJECTS to make public buildings more energy efficient can benefit from funding by the county council.

The climate change Shire grants are available to help communities reduce carbon emissions as well as improving facilities.

Among the recent recipients has been Markfield Parish Council with a total of £7,250 obtained to transform Markfield Community Centre.

Over a period of four years the parish has used the funds to install LED lights and double glazing throughout the building to improve its energy efficiency.

On average, the community centre hosts more than 45,000 people per year and is used for many different purposes from ballet and Zumba classes to art clubs.

Tony Lockley, a member of Markfield Parish Council, said: “The double glazing in the small hall made an immediate improvement to the room’s thermal and acoustic performance.

“Both the windows and fire escape doors used to be single glazed and the doors were very draughty.

“We’ve been investing in a range of improvements with the aim of not only improving the building’s energy performance but also enhancing its appearance and functionality.”

Councillor Pam Posnett, cabinet member for environment at Leicestershire County Council, said: “The Shire grants fund enables community groups and organisations to not only improve the energy efficiency of a building but also improve facilities for residents.

“We want to encourage groups to come forward and apply.”

Community groups and organisations can now apply for the latest round of climate change Shire grants.

Applications must be received by February 28.

Projects must be located in Leicestershire (not including Leicester City or Rutland) and should help improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions from community buildings.

For further information and how to apply visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/community-grants or contact Nailesh.Ramaiya@ leics.gov.uk or 0116 305 8111.