Low-energy affordable homes on market in Bath

The first low-energy properties in Bath are now on sale, as part of the Council’s commitment to build more affordable and sustainable housing.

The new homes consist of four-bedroom detached and three-bedroom semi-detached houses at St Joseph’s Court at Sladebrook Road in Bath and are part of a development of nine houses being delivered by the Council’s construction and development company, Aequus Construction Limited.

The development is built to the AECB Low Energy Standard, and the Council hopes the new homes will help them reach their net zero target by 2030.

The properties include air source heat pumps, mechanical ventilation and heat recovery and solar panels, which are expected to save the owners more than 50% on energy bills and boost the sustainability of the development, as well as all homes having electric vehicle charging points.

The Council has acquired two of the semi-detached homes for affordable housing that will be available to buy under shared ownership.

Cllr Kevin Guy, council leader, said: ‘It’s not surprising that these properties have already generated a great deal of interest. The sustainability credentials of St Joseph’s Court are a shining example of how it’s possible for developers to support climate emergency goals at the same time as making a profit. These high-quality, low-energy homes are an attractive prospect for home buyers, especially the two we have acquired for shared ownership as they will help people to get a foot on the home ownership ladder more easily.’

Charles Gerrish, chair of Aequus, said: ‘This is another great achievement for Aequus following our successful development at Riverside View in Keynsham.  I’m pleased that following the recent government announcement that before 2022 all new homes and offices will have to include electric car chargers, it’s clear we are ahead of the game. The properties at St Joseph’s Court are going to make lovely homes for buyers who will benefit from the low-energy features too.’

Photo supplied by Bath & North East Somerset Council