New Green Power Bid By The Inn at Fossebridge

Owners of the Inn at Fossebridge, whose plans to use a waterwheel to develop their power were dashed by lack of water, believe they have found an alternative - a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system, which could reduce carbon emissions from the business by up to 35 tonnes a year.

Robert Jenkins, who has transformed the run down business during the past three years of his ownership, is working with specialists Segen to find a "green answer" which will also cut monthly heat, light and fuel costs, of £2000 per month.

"The specialists are very hopeful that they can provide an alternative answer, and one which will pay for itself in a few years, especially as we hope to obtain interest free loans for equipment from the Carbon Trust, which aids businesses able to reduce carbon emissions by a significant amount", he explained.

Robert and daughter Elizabeth who run the business also hope to persuade environmental grant aiders to support their plan.

The scheme could cost up to £50,000, but with interest free help and grant aid, add a serious reduction in fuel costs, Robert believes payback could be in as little as five years or so.

Surveys have already been undertaken and a formal proposal is being prepared.

Robert Jenkins has spent over £0.5m restoring the inn to its Georgian glory. All profits are ploughed back into the venture, which has seen total transformation of the interior, including eight bedrooms, and development of excellent food, including a lamb dish representative of the wool trade in the Cotswolds.

The dish has been created by Liz, a Pru Leith cookery school graduate, and head chef Laurent Guillery.

Both the AA and Quality in Tourism have recently given the Inn at Fossebridge - five miles from Cirencester along the A429 - four star accreditation.

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