At Much Markle

"Out of everything we are doing on Future Energy Landscapes, I think these are my favourite types of events. Getting the process out of a workshop setting and into the community. Talking to people about community energy. With cake."

The last of the Dymock & Bromesberrow "Future Energy Landscapes" post-workshop engagement events happened in Much Markle, just over the parish boundary. The next step is to compile all the results into a final report.

We ran a mini-FEL at the Sustainability Cafe, and a stand at the lovely Hellen's Manor Produce Market. Some great conversations, one person interested in hosting a wind turbine, and delicious cake! Plus, on the way there we passed a turbine powering a local poultry farm.

The Sustainability Cafe

During the week we ran a shortened version of the Future Energy Landscapes workshop in Much Marcle at the Sustainability Cafe. After a cup of tea and a slice of homemade cake, we got started.

The idea of community owned clean energy was well received, as long as it was in the right place and well thought through. They were a warm audience and well informed, which came through in their questions. 

Most interestingly, it was the first time we'd heard people in a FEL workshop, asking what was needed to get a community energy project started.

The Produce Market at Hellen's Manor

We had some great conversations (and the rain held off) when we visited the Produce Market. We were made very welcome and bought a few delicious items! There were lots of comments from visitors with a wide range of views and ideas. Here are a selection:

• I want a wind turbine on my land near May Hill.
• Two potential sites in Bromsberrow could be good, as they already have lots of polytunnels in the area which already impact on the view.
• We would like a wind turbine. We’ve been talking about it.
• Weston Cider already has solar.
• Solar is OK if not too visible.
• I think the idea of it being community owned is a great idea.
• I'm in favour of energy reduction. We need more movement towards this.
• I think wind turbines can be really beautiful.
• Lots of maize being grown locally for anaerobic digesters, which doesn’t make sense to me.
• Look into tax for farmers leasing solar fields vs agricultural land for inheritance tax. This may be a barrier.
• No wind turbines.
• I'm concerned about the recycling of solar panels and wind turbine blades.

It's been great working with the Centre for Sustainable Energy, FODCAP, and the Climate team at the Forest of Dean District Council on this project.