Solar panels to help cut carbon emissions at Malvern Splash

Plans to install dozens of panels on the roof of Malvern Splash were approved by Malvern Hills District Council’s planning committee.

Planning officer Clare Bull said: “It is anticipated the panels would help to achieve a reduction in energy usage at the Splash by 40 percent.”

PLAN: How the solar panels will be laid out on the roof (Image: MHDC)

She said the panels will have black aluminium frames and will be positioned to face away from the hills.

The council will also make sure the panels are not too reflective from other angles, as the building is located in a conversation area.

Cllr Paul Bennett said: “It looks fantastic to be honest, it’s brilliant.”

Cllr John Gallagher said the current roof is at the end of its life and the idea of raising the sides of the building up to shield the panels is “really fantastic”.

Cllr Mark John Driscoll said Malvern Theatres and the Splash make up the biggest part of the council’s carbon emissions.

“This will make a significant contribution towards destination zero,” he said.

Cllr John Raine said: “When I came to Malvern, it wasn’t that long before this building was built, I used to think it was one of the most ugly pieces of architecture that the council had produced.

“But I think differently now because it has given us the opportunity to produce something that clearly couldn’t have been possible on more traditionally-designed building.

“It’s a huge area of roof. A lot of money is about to be spent to replace that roof because it’s age-expired but it’s a great opportunity to reduce our carbon emissions massively.”

Cllr Natalie McVey said: “The technology has really come on now. If you look at the Grange Road toilets, you would barely know there are PV panels.”