Price:£14.99
Mill lands prestigious award for eco toursim development
Mar 18, 2008
AN 18th Century Grade II listed mill has won a prestigious gold award from the Green Tourism Business Scheme after being given an eco-makeover.
William and Jane Weston, the owners of Brignall Mill, near Greta Bridge, have converted the mill into a unique holiday home incorporating a millwheel, grindstones and machinery.
The eco-project includes the installation of a micro-hydro electric scheme, a heat pump, solar panels and wood burners to make the mill warm and comfortable while being as self-sufficient in power as possible.
Jane said: "When William and I bought the mill in October 2006 we already had an interest in alternative ways of generating energy to power homes. We have become much more knowledgeable about green issues and while it has been hard work it has been an inspirational process and never boring!
Installing alternative technologies will make a large reduction in the environmental impact of your home and I think it is important we all start to do our bit for the environment and think of the future."
The GTBS carried out a ‘green audit' of the mill and was awarded the top grade. The audit looked at all of the ecological measures taken and also the couple's business practice.
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| William and Jane Weston at Brignall Mill |
Marks were awarded for large changes such as the solar panels but also tiny ones like using recycled toilet paper.
Every aspect is taken into account from the promotion of local produce to the monitoring of water consumption. Only three other self-catering properties have achieved the gold award in north east England and the Weston's are proud of their grading and hope that it will encourage more visitors and inspire them to adopt their own eco-measures.
The couple were inspired to take on such a project because there is no mains gas and no access for bulk fuel delivery at the mill. The increasing price of energy makes such schemes more viable and the smaller carbon footprint represents a wider benefit than pure financial payback.
Easter breaks are still available and more information can be found at the mill website www.brignallmill.co.uk or from the Westons on 01833 637726.
First published in Mercury Business, March 5, 2008