The new facility incorporates a host of eco-friendly elements. These include installation of solar panels and a green roof clad in wild flowers. The building has been triple glazed and comprises a biomass boiler powered by wood pellet. Installation of reflective sun pipes optimises natural light penetration in dark rooms, thereby reaping energy cost cuts.
The centre also sports an air source heat pump which captures outside heat and transfers it to an under-floor heating system. The windows fitted in the building have been built to regulate temperature by opening automatically. Its walls have been insulated with reclaimed denim, sheep’s wool and panels procured via locally-sourced straw bale and hemp. Recycling of rainwater to flush toilets and meet irrigation needs adds to the sustainability. In addition, the power produced and consumed by the centre is showcased on a screen for visitors.
The facility has been financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) with £2.75 million ($4.36 million) contributed via the Yorkshire and Humber ERDF Programme 2007-13. The rest of the project money has been provided by Barnsley College.
