B&Q has opened a new low-carbon store in Tamworth to trial a number of new initiatives as part of the company's plan to reduce its carbon footprint by 90% by 2023.
The 45,000sq ft store uses double lobbies and windows that automatically open and close according to temperature to make the store airtight and more energy efficient.

By reducing air leakage and heat loss from the building, B&Q aims to reduce heat demand and cut the store's carbon usage by more than 20%.

The store's design also incorporates reclaimed materials and features sun-pipe lighting which makes the most of natural daylight. Rainwater is used to flush the toilets.

The new outlet, which also has a TradePoint counter, has provided 110 jobs for the area. Staff hosted a day of entertainment for local people on November 4 to celebrate the opening, with face painting and Christmas-themed craft classes on offer.

Store manager Dave Beech said: "We have built an eco store of the future that Tamworth can be proud of. The store has been specially designed with the needs of our customers in mind, with all the products you could need for any home improvement project, big or small, under one roof, as well as ideas and advice for those who are looking for some inspiration."