Energy efficient housing is target

Developers Squarepeg are exploring ways that will enable new build homes at the Chocolate Factory to be some of the most energy efficient in the UK. Whilst at this stage of any development there are provisos, the professional team is striving to meet the high standard of Sustainability Code 5 on the cycle housing.

George Ferguson said, "It probably sounds as if Squarepeg is being cautious using words like striving and aiming, but until planning is agreed it is impossible to finalise absolute costs for the development. Rather than make grandiose promises that cannot be kept, we are erring on the side of caution, but rest assured, our objective is to meet the highest standards across the site."

To support this aim, the company is exploring a sustainability strategy such as: aerated taps, cistern displacement devices, high efficiency showers and rainwater harvesting along with low energy use appliances and solar hot water. All will contribute toward a highly sustainable (low carbon) new homes environment.

Developers Squarepeg said, "It is clear that this development has attracted people who place a priority on sustainability, we are responding accordingly.

Creating the same standards on the refurbished buildings is harder, but saving and refurbishing the existing buildings is the greatest environmental benefit of all and we are looking at ways of improving on this too."

High sustainability standards could significantly reduce heating bills by comparison with conventional build. The on site CHP system and solar panels aim to meet the hot water requirements of the homes whilst electricity can be supplied by a green energy supplier.

The government has set a target of ensuring all new build homes are carbon neutral by 2016.

Squarepeg commits to environmental benchmarks

• • Conform to auditable benchmarking systems
• • Use resources and land efficiently
• • Aim to create a low environmental impact
• • Minimise waste and pollution
• • Promote energy efficiency and the use of renewable resources
• • Protect and enhance biodiversity
• • Protect important landscape and built in features
• • Protect the historic legacy of the site and area
• • Create a healthy environment

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Cycle path beacon
solves residents concerns

The Eco Tower has literally moved on. Following concerns voiced mainly by residents of Carlyle Road of over shadowing, the Eco Tower has been moved to be closer to the cycle path and further in to the heart of the scheme.

This innovative building could become a beacon for people walking and cycling along this busy stretch of the path.

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