HOUGHTON ST WIDNES
Planet
The project incorporates a host of sustainable specifications, (such as PV panels; sun tunnels; high levels of insulation; etc) to reduce energy demand; water demand; and to reduce waste, both in the construction process and also in day-today living. Sustainable materials, such as sustainable FSC accredited timber; galvanised mild steel rainwater goods, etc; and water based interior paints were specified as standard for the construction. The outdoor space has maximised use of greenery, showcased by the sizeable and spectacular 1.8M high green ivy wall which acts as a boundary treatment for the two bungalows on Site C, spectacularly spanning the main access to the site and making a strong environmental statement. The green wall, as well as being anti- graffiti, is low maintenance and provides natural habitat for wild birds and insects. To further encourage wildlife, swift bricks have been built as a permanent feature into 4 of the gable ends and all residents have been presented with a bird feeder.
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People
Client: The development has provided much needed housing for local people, with additional specialist disabled accommodation in the two bungalows on Site C, one of which is bespoke, and which involved close consultation with the Occupational Therapist in order to maximise ‘Quality of Life’ potential for a severely disabled young adult and his mother.
Residents All dwellings have a wealth of environmental features which will help to reduce utility bills, eg, high levels of thermal insulation, PV panels, sun tunnels, ‘low cost continuous whole house ventilation’, etc.
Local The new build has eliminated a source of nuisance to the neighbourhood, bringing housing to an area of Community land previously associated with anti social behaviour.
” We are keen to help more customers to live greener lives and recognise our responsibilities to help create a sustainable future. These homes completely meet our aims.”
Noel Sharpe, Executive Director of Customer Services at Halton Housing Trust
Prosperity
Client: The development will generate income in the form of rent and the Local Authority will also benefit from Council Tax contributions.
The project has set a benchmark for environmental best practice in the area and hopefully many of the features will be transferable to other future projects.
Residents Residents will benefit from lower utility bills and opportunities to enhance quality of life.
Local As well as uplifting the neighbourhood, and removing a former source of nuisance to the area, the Local Community School will benefit in so many ways from the allotment on Site B. ‘Growing Their Own’ will not only create educational opportunities for the children in the environmental sense, but will also highlight healthier lifestyle options. For the future this could even become an exercise in enterprise…only time will tell?