THE first Passivhaus development in North Somerset is nearing completion.
Homes built to Passivhaus standards are highly energy efficient, requiring very little heating or cooling, thanks to innovative insulation and construction techniques.
A total of 52 Passivhaus homes are being built at Elm Grove, in Nailsea, with the development set to be finished by Christmas.
The scheme, by Alliance Homes, includes 26 homes for social rent, as well as 26 for shared ownership.
Elm Grove, a partnership between housing association Alliance Homes, developer Stonewood Homes, and North Somerset Council (NSC), is is being built on council-owned land and features two-, three- and four-bedroom houses and bungalows designed to significantly reduce energy use and carbon emissions.
Features include triple glazing, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, solar panels, and high levels of insulation, helping residents cut their energy bills by up to 95% compared to the UK average.
The Passivhaus development at Nailsea features all affordable homes. Picture: Alliance Homes
Sarah McQuatt, service director – new homes at Alliance Homes, said: “We’re proud to be delivering these high-quality, energy-efficient homes in Nailsea. Passivhaus certification means our customers will benefit from lower bills and warmer homes, and we’re pleased to be offering these properties as affordable housing for local people.”
Elm Grove has benefitted from funding support from Homes England and the One Public Estate Land Release Fund for site infrastructure.
James Petherick, land and planning director at Stonewood Homes, said: “Elm Grove is a flagship for sustainable housing in the region. We’ve worked closely with our partners to create homes that are not only energy-efficient but also spacious, adaptable and built to a high standard.
“It’s exciting to see the first residents moving in and the community beginning to take shape.”
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Councillor Mark Canniford, executive member for placemaking and economy at NSC, added: “This development shows what’s possible when local authorities take a proactive role and work with local partners to facilitate housing delivery.
“Elm Grove offers much-needed affordable homes for sale and rent, all built to the highest energy efficiency standards.
“North Somerset Council’s Development Strategy looks to deliver homes and jobs that meet the needs our community now and in the future. These are the building blocks of thriving local communities, which is why it’s critical these sustainable Passivhaus homes are affordable and of quality.
“Elm Grove sets the tone for what can be achieved when we work in partnership, ensuring development on council land can help local people unlock opportunities over many years to come.”
Shared ownership homes at Elm Grove are available to reserve now. To find out more or register your interest, visit alliancehomes.org.uk.
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