Register to get 3 free articles
Register to unlock the article and receive our free newsletter. Join 26,000 other hotel leaders and stay in the know.
Want unlimited access? View Plans
Already have an account? Sign in
Stonehouse Court Hotel has outlined its efforts to reduce its environmental impact, ahead of a “long-awaited” solar project which is due to be completed next month. The 17th Century Gloucestershire manor house, near Stroud, said it is going ahead with its “ambitious” green tourism and sustainability plans that will see several eco-friendly initiatives implemented over the next 12 months.
The installation of 82 integrated solar panels on the East and South sides of the Caroline Suite, being carried out by local company Cotswold Energy Group, will produce 11% of the hotel’s electricity needs, according to the site.
This integrated solar panel initiative is part of a wider investment project aimed at improving the hotel’s sustainability.
The hotel said the scheme has been a “particular triumph” given the challenges associated with securing planning permission from English Heritage.
Other recent developments include the installation of new 22kWh EV charging stations, complementing the existing 7.4kWh unit. The 22kWh chargers, located across four parking bays near the main building, provide a faster charging option, while the 7.4kWh station remains available, particularly for overnight guests.
Stonehouse Court, which holds a Silver Award by Green Tourism, has already committed to installing new energy-efficient boilers, using 100% renewable electricity – with 95% LED lighting throughout the building – and implementing an efficient recycling and waste minimisation scheme, including an on-site bottling system for its water needs.
Maz Jurko, general manager at Stonehouse Court, said: “We’ve always strived to be at the forefront of hospitality sustainability, and the various initiatives we’ve undertaken demonstrate our continued commitment to building on our existing ESG policies. More guests are making eco-conscious decisions when looking to book a stay, and there has been a greater demand for sustainable practices across the board. We hope more hotels and heritage buildings will adapt as our climate changes.”
Sarah Brewster, owner of Stonehouse Court, added: “Sustainability is something we’re incredibly passionate about at Stonehouse Court. These initiatives are just the beginning of what we hope will be an enduring commitment to reducing our environmental impact, and it’s wonderful to see our efforts taking shape.”
