Solar power could bring a bright future

The Falkirk Gateway development framework highlighted the potential for a sustainable transport initiative at the Westfield Stadium and members of Falkirk Council’s executive committee learned officers had prepared a first stage submission to establish a solar facility at the location.

During an updated report on Falkirk Gateway projects at Tuesday’s meeting, members were informed the council was working together with consultants Evolt, one of the country’s leading electrical charging point suppliers, to establish a “solar photovoltaic” car park canopy and electrical vehicle charging points at the stadium.

The aim is to turn the site into a hub for low carbon travel in the area and create a central EV charging facility for use by visitors and users of Falkirk Stadium and The Helix.

Councillor Jim Blackwood asked how many charging points were actually going to be located at the stadium.

Officers could not give a figure as such, but informed Councillor Blackwood since the Scottish Government is now looking at the stadium to be a hub for electric charging there will likely be a significant number available.

The stadium already has one EV charging point and there are currently EV charging points located at Town House Street in Denny, Larbert Station, Union Road in Grangemouth and Falkirk Grahamston Station.

The submission of the plans to Transport Scotland is the first part of a two stage process to secure partial funding for the development.

According to the report, if funding is secured it will lead to a “viable and deliverable project which will be a major asset for the emerging Falkirk Gateway”.

If cash for the project does materialise it could potentially be recouped through income generated from the canopy facility.