Residents’warm glow

Apr 22 2008 by Karen McLauchlan, Evening Gazette

RESIDENTS in Stockton are now feeling the benefit of a free energy-saving home insulation scheme.

The first round of work has been completed by GoWarm, which aims to help up to 10,000 home owners receive cavity wall and loft insulation under the three-year programme being run in partnership with the local authority.

Karen Hindhaugh, director of GoWarm, said: “We are delighted that the first round of installing insulation is now underway. Together we will fight fuel poverty, reduce carbon emissions and enjoy better health benefits.”

Stockton South MP Dari Taylor and Jenny Beaumont, Stockton Council’s cabinet member for the environment, have met with some of the first residents to feel the benefit of the scheme.

Mrs Taylor said: “The success of projects like GoWarm can only benefit everyone in the long run and it is very satisfying to see with my own eyes those who are benefiting. GoWarm has been set up with funding partners including Defra to deliver insulation and heating measures, benefits assistance and energy advice to qualifying home owners within the 11 districts of the North-east that so far have missed out on schemes offered by other organisations. It is good news for us, and the local residents that Stockton Council is the first official project under way.”