Summary- A curling club in Kinross, Scotland, has undergone an energy-efficient transformation.
A curling rink in Kinross, Scotland, has faced a massive refurbishment to upgrade its facilities to energy-efficient standards.
The town’s rink was constructed in 1977 as an extension to the Green Hotel and is believed to be the oldest curling club in the world. But two years ago, it came close to being shut down, as under EU regulations the refrigerant used in its ice plant would be outlawed in 2015 – when new rules come into force.
In order to stay running, the building would have to undergo a major transformation to be deemed fit for use.
Thanks to the ownership of the rink being taken over by the Kinross Curling Trust, a charitable organisation with nearly 400 curling members, funding in excess of £1 million was raised for its refurbishment.
The project was also supported by a range of organisations and public bodies, including Kinross Community Council, Perth and Kinross Council, and local club members.
In April this year, building work began and the rink was stripped back to its original steel frame.
A number of energy-saving measures were installed during the refurbishment, including new heating and boilers, an electricity substation, and roof and wall insulation.
The installation of insulation will contribute to a warmer environment for club members and should help to reduce the building’s energy bills.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, roof insulation can account for an annual saving of up to £250, while a building fitted with solid wall insulation can cut the cost of fuel bills by up to £460 a year.
Speaking at the rink’s grand opening last month, Doug Ritchie – business manager of the trust – said: “We enter the new season with a state-of-the-artice hall which should enable us to provide very high-quality ice and excellent curling.”
Steven Kerr, manager of the rink, added: “Now it almost seems like a new building. We have new plant, new ice and lighting, a new ceiling and even new walls – the difference is almost difficult to believe.”
It is hoped that the energy-efficient venue will now attract some of the UK’s biggest events.