Issue - meetings

Executive Board considered the attached report.

RECOMMENDED: That Council amend the Capital Programme to provide 50% match fund for the project, as required by the European Regional Development Funding Renewable Energy Scheme (ERDF).

          The Council considered a report of the Chief Executive on an amendment to the Capital Programme to provide 50% match funding for the Renewable Energy Scheme by developing a solar farm on the former St Michael’s Golf Course.

          RESOLVED: That the Capital Programme be amended to provide 50% match funding for the project, as required by the European Regional Development Funding Renewable Energy Scheme.

          The Board considered a report of the Chief Executive, on plans to develop a Solar Farm on the former St Michael’s Golf Course, and to accept funding towards the capital cost of the scheme.

          The Board was advised that the Council had explored the potential to develop a Solar Farm on part of the former St Michaels’ Golf Course in Widnes. A feasibility study had indicated that the site would be technically suitable with the opportunity to bring a brownfield site back into use. In addition, it was noted that Halton Stadium would be connected to the Solar Farm and estimated that they could use approximately 50% of the energy generated, thereby significantly reducing the Stadium’s running costs over the next 25-30 years.

          Members were advised that, as part of the development of the scheme, the Council had successfully submitted an application to the European Regional Development Funding Renewable (ERDF) Energy Scheme, to meet 50% of the cost of the scheme. It was noted that the Council would need to provide 50% match funding which it was proposed would be taken from the Capital Programme/ Environmental Fund. The report set out details of the offset costs and the potential income generation for Members to consider.

          RESOLVED: That

1)    The proposal to develop a Solar Farm on the former St Michael’s Golf Course be approved;

2)    Subject to final confirmation from the Department for Communities and Local Government, the ERDF funding be accepted; and

3)    Council be recommended to amend the Capital Programme accordingly, to provide 50% match fund for the project, as required by ERDF.