Work begins on zero carbon neighbourhood in Kent

Work has started on a new project which aims to turn vacant land in Sittingbourne into one of the most energy-efficient housing schemes in the country.

The zero carbon neighbourhood is being delivered by Public Sector Plc in partnership with NetZero Buildings, the off-site manufacturer.

The all-electric modular homes in Sittingbourne will be able to achieve carbon neutrality thanks to their air-tight, well-insulated walls and will feature photo-voltaic solar roof panels, to enable the properties to generate their own electricity.

They also have hot water heated by an air source heat pump to further reduce electricity consumption.

Homes England have provided debt finance to part fund the development, which is due to be completed by the end of January 2021.

‘As we all begin the economic recovery from COVID-19 we are extremely excited about delivering Kent’s new zero carbon neighbourhood,’ said Public Sector Plc’s chief executive, Adam Cunnington.

‘Our country not only faces a crisis in the quantity of homes but also the quality, as well as a global climate emergency. We’re proud to be leading the way with a new generation of housing which helps to tackle these problems. The development at Oak Road marks the launch of our new PRS brand LetLife and is the first of three energy efficient housing developments we are delivering in the next 12 months,’ he added.

From its factory in Cambridge, NetZero Buildings has pioneered the production of true net zero carbon and energy positive buildings in Britain over the past six years.

Steve Murphy, chief executive of NetZero Buildings, added: ‘This industry-leading housing scheme in Kent is a landmark development for NetZero Buildings.

‘For more than six years NetZero Buildings has pioneered some of the most energy-efficient buildings in Britain and we’re now widely recognized as the only offsite manufacturer delivering the true meaning of net zero buildings.

‘We are incredibly proud to be delivering our first housing development, which will create one of the most energy-efficient neighbourhoods in England,’ added Mr Murphy.

‘We can’t wait for the first residents to move in and experience the benefits of living in a warm, modern, comfortable zero carbon home which costs very little money to heat.’

Julian Lockwood, director at Pozzoni Architecture, said: ‘After so much disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re delighted to be moving forward with this revolutionary new housing project in partnership with Public Sector Plc and NetZero Buildings. As well as being manufactured with greater efficiency, Oak Road’s new homes will also be incredibly energy-efficient – helping residents reduce their carbon footprint and keeping running costs low for years to come.

‘With local and central government renewing their commitments to environmental sustainability in the wake of COVID-19, we see modern methods of construction playing an increasingly pivotal role in delivering high-quality new housing at the necessary speed and scale.’

Photo Credit – Supplied