We like to see local authorities supporting residential park home sites in their community, which was why we were pleased to read about a new project launching in Cornwall.
Cornwall Countil and Community Energy Plus are joining forces to reduce heating bills for park home owners.
Many areas of the country offer schemes in which homeowners can benefit from discounted or free insulation to lower their energy consumption, but sadly many of these projects exclude park homes.
Not in Cornwall, however, as the council’s Green Cornwall Programme has announced a £500,000 contribution for park home owners looking for help in funding the insulation of their floor, roof and external walls.
The project will provide up to 50% government funding and an interest free loan to cover the remaining costs.
“Insulating [park homes] can significantly improve living conditions and increase the lifespan of the home,” remarked Community Energy Plus’ Nicola McCheyne. “With the majority of residents being over 65, it is especially important that they are able to have an adequately heated home.”
Research has shown insulating a park home can cut combined heating and electricity costs by around 30 per cent to 40 per cent.
“Excessively cold living conditions are directly linked to respiratory and coronary illnesses, and increased accidents within the home caused by mobility impairment,” added Stuart Kenney from Cornwall Council. “Providing a warm environment in park homes benefits the wider society by reducing the costs to the NHS by a decline in cold weather related GP appointments and hospital admissions.”
Coast is a specialist park home insurance provider – to find out more about our comprehensive park home cover call Freephone 0800 614 849. You can also buy park home insurance online.