The new solar array is part of the £8.5 million revamp. It will generate green energy and cut costs.
The Cheshire West Council approved the solar array, stating that no permission was needed for the addition of 242 solar panels on the Wellington Road roof. The solar array will cover 480 sq m and generate 101 kWp of power.
This panel array is part of the market project, which creates event spaces, adds youth areas, and provides new trader spots.
A planning officer wrote a report stating that the array looks good. Due to the parapet wall and the panel angle you can’t see it from most public places. The report also says no harm exists, and the solar system won’t hurt the area or cause glare for neighbors.
The building was a supermarket before it became a market in the 2000s. The £8.5 million will improve the market’s hall appearance and increase thermal efficiency.
They recently added a play area, and new Wi-Fi is also now available. The market will also get better public toilets, including a Changing Places toilet.
The solar array will help the planet, and the green energy will cut energy costs. They will boost natural lighting too, and these actions will support sustainability.
They will upgrade the market entrance, creating a space for business, events, and bike parking. The flea market will become an event area, and they expect the project to finish next year.