Leisure centre seeks solar panel approval

Leisure centre bosses are seeking permission to install solar panels in a bid to cut energy costs.

Sunderland City Council has proposed to install a "solar PV array" at Hetton Community Pool and Wellness Centre in Hetton-le-Hole, County Durham.

According to designs, the system would include more than 430 "solar modules" and a "strengthened glass front cover with anti-reflective coating".

The local authority previously said the panels would help lower the building’s carbon footprint and make savings on its energy bills.

The plan comes after the leisure centre received a £410,000 national grant from Sport England to help with financial pressures caused by rising energy costs.

It is understood the funding has been earmarked for solar panels and other energy-saving devices to heat the building, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

This includes a scheme to warm the water for the centre's swimming pool.

Gerry Taylor, executive director of health, housing and communities at the council, previously said installing solar panels at the centre would help save money for people who use the facility and "for all council tax payers".

A decision on the project is due to be made by 4 November following a consultation.

Follow BBC Sunderland on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].