Markethill: Plans for solar panels at historic Old Courthouse
Historic Environment Division (HED) is currently being consulted on plans to install solar panels at The Old Courthouse, Markethill.
A Design and Access Statement, submitted on June 24, along with a planning application for the installation of solar panels, states: “Markethill District Enterprises Ltd., custodians of The Old Courthouse, has secured funding through a Sustainable Communities Grant to facilitate the installation of solar photovoltaic panels and associated energy-saving measures within the courthouse complex.
“The proposal consists of the installation of 28 solar photovoltaic panels on the roof of the existing modern extension to the rear/side of the courthouse building.
“The panels will be mounted on proprietary brackets suitable for installation on the existing metal roof covering. The mounting system will elevate the panels to approximately 30 degrees, while ensuring that they remain closely aligned to the roof surface to minimise visual impact.
“The proposal represents a proportionate and carefully considered intervention that balances sustainability objectives with the preservation of the building’s special architectural and historic interest.”
It is estimated the solar panels will generate 9,548 kWh of electricity annually, which is 16 per cent of the electricity it needs. This will save an estimated £2,047 per year and reduce carbon emissions by 2.5 tonnes of CO₂ annually.
The report goes on to explain the historic building will not be altered in any way: “The proposal has been specifically designed to ensure the protection of historic fabric throughout both installation and operation.
“No historic roofing materials, structural elements, or architectural features will be removed, altered, or damaged as part of the works. The installation will be confined entirely to the roof structure of the later modern extension.
“Accordingly, the proposal avoids direct intervention into the historic courthouse building and preserves its original slate roofing and associated historic detailing.
“The proposal has been developed with consideration given to the heritage sensitivities of the listed building and the need to minimise visual and physical impact.
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“In this instance, the proposed solar panels have been deliberately located on the roof of the modern extension rather than on the historic courthouse building itself.
“The proposal avoids any alteration to historic roofing materials or other significant architectural features, and has been designed to minimise visibility from public viewpoints.
“The development therefore achieves an appropriate balance between environmental sustainability objectives and the conservation of an important heritage asset.
“The Old Courthouse was constructed in 1842 to the designs of Thomas Duff, notable architect of Newry Cathedral and a number of significant 19th-century buildings throughout Ulster.
“The courthouse has stood at the centre of Markethill for over 180 years and retains considerable historic and architectural significance. The building operated as a courthouse until the final court session held on October 11, 1940.
“Following a period of vacancy, the property was occupied between 1954 and 1970 as a children’s clothing factory. Thereafter, the building again became vacant and suffered extensive deterioration and water ingress.
“In 1997, Markethill District Enterprises Ltd. acquired the building and undertook substantial restoration and renovation works beginning in 1999.
“These works included the construction of a modern extension to the side and rear of the original courthouse building to facilitate day care and community use facilities.”