Five hospitality-focused businesses across Lichfield District have completed energy-saving improvements thanks to funding we have provided through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
More than £72,000 has been awarded through the council’s Energy Saving Scheme, helping businesses invest in practical improvements that reduce energy use, lower operating costs and improve the long-term sustainability of their premises.
Among the projects completed are solar photovoltaic (PV) installations at Blackbrook Barns, the Cathedral Hotel and Aspire Design, helping businesses generate their own renewable electricity. The George Hotel has installed a range of heating and refrigeration optimisation measures to improve energy efficiency, while The Hub at St Mary's has upgraded its lighting with new energy-efficient LED systems.
Together, the five featured projects received almost £40,000 in grant funding and are expected to deliver indicative carbon savings of more than 22 tonnes each year, while helping businesses reduce their energy bills.
Councillor Janice Silvester-Hall, Cabinet Member for Visitor Economy, Ecology and Climate Change, said:
“Our hospitality sector plays an important role in Lichfield District’s economy, so it’s fantastic to see businesses investing in improvements that will reduce their energy bills and strengthen their long-term resilience.
“Through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund we’ve been able to support a range of practical projects, from solar panels to smarter heating systems and energy-efficient lighting, helping businesses become more sustainable while reducing day-to-day operating costs.
“These projects demonstrate how targeted investment can support both our local economy and our ambitions for a greener future.”
Kevin Sharkey, Blackbrook Barns, said:
“The funding we received through the Energy Saving Scheme has helped us invest in solar PV at Blackbrook Barns, reducing our reliance on grid electricity and making the venue more energy efficient and sustainable for the future. As a growing local business, we’re continuing to invest significantly in Blackbrook Barns and it’s important that sustainability forms part of that growth.
“Support like this helps businesses bring forward investment that not only reduces energy consumption and operating costs but also improves the long-term resilience of the business.
“The application process was straightforward and the support we received from Lichfield District Council throughout was excellent. We’re delighted to have been able to take part in the scheme."
Lucia Piovesana, Webb Hotel Group, said:
“We were delighted to receive support through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. As a family-owned business, we are committed to reducing our environmental impact while preserving the character of our historic hotels. This funding has allowed us to take meaningful steps towards improving energy efficiency and reducing energy consumption, supporting both our sustainability goals and the long-term future of our hotels.
“We are grateful to Lichfield District Council for making this funding available and for helping local businesses take positive steps towards a more sustainable future.”
The Energy Saving Scheme forms part of the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which supports local priorities including business growth, sustainability and stronger communities.