Tourism goes green
TOURISM in Weardale looks all set to go green with a £30,000 cash pot to install renewable energy systems.Wear Valley District Council has designated the money to help small businesses and tourist attractions install wind turbines, solar panels and micro hydro systems.
Ian Bloomfield, environment officer for the Council, was a guest speaker at Helme Park Hotel on Tuesday for the Weardale Visitor Network.
He said: ³We want to match Government grants using this fund to help bring the cost of these systems down for small businesses.
³So if a small business, say a bed and breakfast, wanted a solar thermal system, the Government might contribute £400, which we could then match, bringing the cost of the system down from £3,500 to £2,700.
Network chairman Ian Forbes said: ³If people come into this fantastic Dale to stay they will expect policies that demonstrate a commitment to renewable energy.² Ian Bloomfield said: ³Daily I am asked about renewable energy, such is the awareness of climate change.
³For the Dales areas which are off the gas network it¹s of benefit to consider different energy sources.
³I am expecting to ask for £100,000 next year and for that application to be successful.
³We are looking at systems which are aesthetically attractive and practical.
³ If I wouldn¹t have it in my own home I wouldn¹t recommend it to others.
