Homeowners and tenants with inspiring examples of energy saving measures in their homes are being encouraged to come forward by the Council, Bath Preservation Trust, and Transition Bath to open-up to the public.
The Bath Homes Fit for the Future Open Homes Weekend is taking place on the 17th-18th March 2012, and enables people to visit a range of houses which have either been built or had changes made to them to make them warmer, greener and cheaper to run.
But the project urgently needs more local people to come forward to demonstrate their home’s interesting features to make the event a success. These features might include advanced insulation or glazing, low carbon or renewable energy technologies, rainwater harvesting, or even a green roof. Homes can be any age; from new build to heritage, and any type, from flats to family homes.
Who is already taking part?
Paul Berry and Moira Brennan are one the Home Openers taking part. Paul said, “We have renovated our home to make it more energy efficient because we were worried about rising fuel prices and peak oil. As a community we need to adapt and make changes, and a great place to start is by looking at our own homes. We have found that insulation and generating our own power is really important, and by opening our home we want to help others work out what they can do.”
Home Openers are given full support, including a home visit by the co-ordinator, a pack containing all the information and materials you need, and a volunteer steward on the day. You can find out more information about taking part in Open Homes Weekend at http://www.bathhomesfitforthefuture.co.uk or calling 01225 477528 or email: [email protected].
Supporting warmer homes and cheaper bills
Bath Homes Fit for the Future’s programme of events runs for 8 weeks during March and April including workshops, talks, and other activities related energy efficiency.
Councillor Paul Crossley (Lib-Dem, Southdown), Leader of Council, said, “The Open Homes Weekend will help visitors find out what changes they can make to their own homes to make them more energy efficient. Bath & North East Somerset Council and our partners are keen to encourage people to support this event by either becoming a home opener or a volunteer.”
Joanna Robinson, Conservation Officer at Bath Preservation Trust: “Through our Warmer Bath Project, we have worked with some old and listed buildings and made them more energy efficient, whilst being sensitive to their heritage. This is an ideal opportunity for anyone who has successfully improved the efficiency of their old or listed home to come forward and share their experiences”
Nathan Baranowski, Chair of Trustees, Transition Bath, said, “If you don’t have a home to showcase, but would like to get involved, there are plenty of opportunities for volunteers to help out on the Open Homes Weekend and on other aspects of the project. Please get in contact to find out more.”
