Proposed Development:

In March 2020 we successfully achieved planning permission for a scheme of ground and water source heat pumps, which enabled RAAS (a Voluntary Aided, state funded school) to replace its dated central heating (reliant on unsustainable oil-based heating systems) with a low carbon, energy efficient heating system without disrupting pupils’ education. 

The School remain committed to pursuing a sustainable energy strategy and in May 2023 we achieved permission for roof top PV panels to a number of school and boarding house buildings across the site. 

The school site includes a number of listed buildings and sits within a Capability Brown Grade II Historic Registered Park and Garden; the green belt; an AONB; and a SINC. 

The system of ground and water source heat pumps, with extensive borehole and trench lines, and the subsequent PV panel installations, were carefully considered with reference to heritage, arboricultural, archaeological and ecological constraints.  Effective communication with the Council ensured a smooth process to planning approval.