Legal & General is building its first net zero-carbon homes, as consumer demand for more eco-friendly properties continues to increase.
All of the net zero carbon homes have an energy-efficient design, air source heat pumps, solar panels and EV charging facilities. They have been awarded an A EPC (energy performance certificate).
The financial services and asset management firm is working with Essex construction firm ROSE Builders on the project, which is located close to existing local amenities, including a doctor’s surgery, pub, primary and secondary schools.
Legal & General’s proposals also open up the site to public access and will provide new green spaces including a small forest and areas of natural play for new residents and the wider community.
Designed to encourage biodiversity and walkability, the new community will enhance existing habitats where possible and introduce new habitats through improved landscaping, including a wildflower meadow and native tree planting. New pathways for pedestrians will also be created.
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Construction work is due to commence shortly, with the first homes anticipated to be completed by April 2025.
Legal & General Affordable Homes now has nearly 5,000 homes in operation with over 2,000 in development planned across the country.
Legal & General chief executive Ben Denton, said: “The gap between supply and demand of affordable housing has never been greater, and, as the cost of living is rising, it’s getting more and more difficult to save for a deposit and buy a property outright.
“Our new scheme at Hart Road is solely affordable housing with a mix of affordable rent and Shared Ownership properties built to high sustainability standards, to not only help locals get on the property ladder but also keep costs down in the future.
“We are passionate about building good quality homes in great locations to help people and communities thrive and our latest scheme at Hart Road will go some way in achieving that.”
Earlier this year, the UK government’s green finance scheme – Green Home Finance Accelerator – awarded 12 projects £16 million to help households improve their energy efficiency.
Recent data show one in five homeowners can’t afford to make green home improvements.
