Environmental Policy
At Church Farm Country Cottages we are committed to acting responsibly to ensure the protection and preservation of the local environment, its wildlife and plant life.
We want to minimise the use of fossil fuels, water and the amount of waste generated that cannot be recycled. To this end we have introduced a number of green measures as we strive to achieve our long term commitment to our planet, on a local level.
To date these include:
Biomass Boiler: In December 2014 we installed a wood pellet boiler which heats the cottages, Indoor Heated Pool, office and buildings at Church Farm
Solar Panels: Church Farm installed on the farm an array of 104 solar panels during July 2012 to produce electricity for the cottages, pool and National Grid.
Woodland planting: We have planted 5,500 new trees in our woodland which we are creating around the farm. These include Ash, Oak, Field Maple and shrubs including hazel, spindle, dogwood, viburnum and guilder rose. Regular maintenance is carried out annually in the early years.
Rainwater Harvesting: We have installed a 10,000 litre rainwater harvesting tank which is used in association with our swimming pool and farm use. Our 7,000 litre underground rainwater collection tank is used for the swimming pool, watering plants and car cleaning also.
Recycling Facilities: We are continually improving our extensive recycling facilities. We calculate we recycle nearly 50% of our waste.
Cyclists, Walkers, Public Transport: We encourage the use of bikes, walking and buses as opposed to driving at every available opportunity. Walkers’ and Cyclists’ folders are provided in each cottage.
Energy Conservation: We have under-floor and roof insulation, double glazing and good levels of sound insulation in all our cottages. Each cottage has its own thermostatic controller with radiators having individual thermostatic radiator valves where appropriate
Lighting: All our cottages have low energy lighting where appropriate. Our games room and pool hall have been upgraded to LED lighting with motion detectors where appropriate which have produced staggering savings.
Recycled materials: We use recycled toilet paper and kitchen towels.
Local Business: We encourage guests to support our local facilities at the neighbouring farm shop/cafe, village Co-operative shop and village pub which are all less than 1/2 mile away. Our home-produced lamb is available for sale at the farm shop
Washing Liquids: Eco-friendly washing up liquid and hand wash and body wash are provided in all our cottages.