Solar Panels Proposed For Historic Northwood House In Cowes

Plans have been submitted to install 84 solar panels on the roof of Northwood House in Cowes to help cut energy costs and carbon emissions.

The Northwood House Trust wants to fit the panels across the building's west, east and south wings.

The proposals relate to the Grade II* listed property, which was built in the early 19th century and extensively enlarged from 1837 onwards.

A heritage statement submitted with the application says the panels have been carefully positioned to avoid harming the building's historic features.

Most of the installation would be concentrated on the west wing, identified as the part of the building with the lowest heritage significance.

LMA Heritage Consultancy, which prepared the statement, says the potential impact on the historic property would be limited and outweighed by the benefits of reducing running costs and carbon emissions.

Northwood House is used as a wedding and events venue, as well as serving the wider community.

The Isle of Wight Council's public consultation on the listed building consent application closes on 6 November, with a decision scheduled for 27 November.