Greenhouse - Solar Water Heating System

Much has changed in the four years since The Greenhouse Trust began its application to the local authority for planning permission, to place a solar hot water system on the south facing (front elevation) of this Grade II* listed building.

It is not yet a requirement for developers to install such systems or a routine procedure for those wanting to Do-It-Themselves. However, Norwich, along with many other authorities now has Best Building Practice Guidelines and energy conservation/insulation strategies which would bolster the arguments for any application made today.

However, in 1996, The Trust found it necessary to lobby each elected member of the planning committee in order to gain the necessary planning and listed building consents.

We would advise anyone experiencing any concerns or objections to obtain the details in writing as early on in the process as possible, and then to independently contact the national bodies that are being quoted by the local officer. The Secretary of State for the Environment now has a number of appeal decisions which are supportive of the use of renewable technology on listed buildings.

Many old buildings would benefit enormously from the introduction of energy efficient and renewable technology. Efficient energy management and the consequential reduction in heating and running costs would allow the owners and tenants of many of our finest buildings (listed or otherwise) the opportunity to improve the quality of life for themselves and for us all. Any further delay in responding to the threat of climate change will lead to an increased risk of damage to many buildings, both from economic and ecological pressures.

When seeking planning permission the Trust’s case addressed the need for a holistic definition of conservation itself. Conservation of energy and conservation of our heritage should not be viewed as unattainable or incompatible in design terms. Saving energy now, and reducing our dependency on fossil fuels, increases the probability that there will be a future from which to view our heritage.

*An Evaluation of the Greenhouse Solar Hot Water System.*	Previous	Contents	Next
6. PLANNING ISSUES