Defra’s Project Zebra in Alnwick wins environment award

Jul 4 2009 by Brian Daniel, The Journal

CONTROVERSIAL Government buildings in a Northumberland town have won a clutch of awards. The Defra Lion House buildings at Alnwick were built last year with an environmentally friendly theme, boasting three wind turbines which some claim stand idle for much of the time.

The green attributes also include photovoltaic panels, solar collector panels for hot water, a biomass boiler, and rainwater harvesting.

The buildings, designed and constructed by Kier North East, are known as Project Zebra (Zero Emissions Building Renewing Alnwick).

Now they have been declared Environmental Initiative of the Year at the Building Services Awards.

The honour comes hot on the heels of the Constructing Excellence in the North East Awards, at which the project won the Legacy Award for Sustainability.

But some residents have questioned the buildings. Ray Farnsworth, of Alnmouth Road, Alnwick, has suggested the turbines stand idle and claims they are an eyesore. Last night, he said the awards could not have been given for the efficiency or appearance of the engines. He said: “These things are just plug ugly and I do not think they are very efficient.”

A Defra spokesperson said: “The turbines are in full working order and are not always moving as they need windy conditions to turn. The last few weeks have not seen much wind, but they are helping Lion House maintain its zero carbon status.

“We are also delighted that the building has won six awards for its innovative sustainable design and efficient energy use. The green design of the building is also working really well now staff are in it and using all the technology.”