Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) has published detailed guidance for improving the energy efficiency of England’s 10,000+ rural community halls. The guidance is the focal point of the charity’s ‘Village Halls Week’ campaign, which is being supported by a small number of high-profile heating and construction industry brands including Baxi and Knauf Insulation.
Village Halls Week (18th — 24th March) is an annual campaign that aims to raise the profile of village halls and celebrate the contribution they make to rural community life. The theme this year is ‘go green!’ which is examining the contribution that village halls can play in the transition to Net Zero.
“Getting to net zero means no building being left behind,”” said Vanessa Rae, Regional Sustainability Director for Knauf Insulation. “We’re proud to support this campaign, which should help secure a sustainable future for these vital community hubs — reducing running costs as well as their carbon footprint.”
Baxi is investing in improved training facilities that will help level-up access to qualified heat pump installers for rural communities. By growing the UK’s army of renewable heating technicians, Baxi hopes to play its part in decarbonising heat in buildings of all types around the UK to help deliver the Government’s 2050 net zero targets.
“We’re proud to be part of Village Halls Week, celebrating the buildings often at the heart of village life and supporting them in the transition to more sustainable heating solutions,” commented Corey Gooding, Strategic Account Manager at Baxi. “Government grants and support are among the best in Europe, and spring is a great time to plan and carry out a heating refurbishment ahead of the heating season. By collaborating with charities like ACRE and with companies like Knauf Insulation, we can ensure that Village Halls arrive at the most appropriate energy-efficient solution that matches their individual needs.”
‘Village and Community Halls: A Net Zero Design Guide’ has been authored by Ben Stagg, Director of stagg architects, who approached ACRE last summer with an offer of help, conscious that many community venues were struggling with increasing energy bills.
Ben said: “I hope that the guidance will inspire and give confidence to many more village hall groups that it’s possible to make their building a warm and welcoming space, reduce energy bills and contribute to Net Zero.”
Village & Community Halls: A Net Zero Design Guide is available for free from: https://acre.org.uk/village-halls-net-zero-guide/
