Storm Eowyn damages solar panels at Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre

2025Published 28 Sept 2026Responsible editor: Chief Editor

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From the recordRoot cause

Where: Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre in County Durham
What: Storm Éowyn damaged solar panels
Response: Durham County Council assessed the damage; centre reopened on 28 January 2025
Cause: Not reported
Outcome: Short section of Greenwell Road closed to vehicles and pedestrians

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What happened

Storm Eowyn damaged solar panels at Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre in County Durham. The centre closed briefly for a damage assessment and reopened on 28 January 2025. The main doors stayed shut while the storm damage was addressed, and visitors were directed to the Greenwell Road entrance. A short section of Greenwell Road was closed to vehicles and pedestrians for public safety. The car park remained open. The extent of the panel damage was not reported.

Contributing factors

The council attributed the damage to Storm Eowyn. The same report said winds of up to 96 mph battered the wider region. No site wind speed or failure mechanism was reported.

Lessons learned

Review mounting and securing methods for rooftop solar arrays in areas prone to high winds.
Inspect arrays promptly after severe weather and keep the public clear until the damage is understood.
Plan temporary access and road controls where damaged panels may pose a risk to people nearby.

More lessons on weather and external hazards, from every incident on the register.

Not yet known

Wind speed at the leisure centre
How the panels were damaged
Cost of repairs
Turbine model and age

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Source

chroniclelive.co.uk

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Published 2026-09-28. Written from public reporting. Descriptive, not investigative. See the data accuracy disclaimer.

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