New Net Carbon Zero homes at Northrepps ‘progressing well’

Local councillors and housing officers have been given the opportunity to inspect progress on the construction of 19 new net zero operational carbon homes in North Norfolk, after construction started earlier this year.

The new homes in Northrepps, which are being built by Broadland Housing Association, have a range of features designed to maximise energy-efficiency and minimise the demand for energy. They are the first net operational carbon homes the association has built.

Eight of the homes are for affordable rent and two for shared ownership; the remaining nine homes are being developed by Broadland Housing’s subsidiary Broadland St Benedicts for open market sale; the proceeds from these homes will go towards subsidising the affordable homes.

Michael Newey, chief executive of Broadland Housing welcomed Cllr Wendy Fredericks, portfolio holder for Housing and Peoples’ Services at North Norfolk District Council, to the site to see for herself how construction was progressing.

The new homes, off Broadgate Close in the village, will feature an enhanced insulated timber frame, triple glazed windows, air source heat pumps, air tightness with mechanical ventilation, and heat recovery to minimise energy demand.

Photovoltaic solar panels on the homes’ roofs are predicted to generate sufficient electricity over the course of the year to off-set the estimated electricity usage for the average occupancy of each property.

The project has brought together a range of local experts to deliver on Broadland Housing’s commitment to low carbon impact construction.

“We are delighted to see how these new homes are progressing and to be able to demonstrate the first outlines of this new scheme with its eco technology,” said Mr Newey.

“The technology we are installing here will make these homes fuel efficient and reduce the energy bills for the new tenants as well as fulfilling our ambitions set out in our corporate strategy to reduce the environmental impact of the new homes we build.”

Cllr Fredericks added, ““North Norfolk District Council welcomes the Broadland Housing Association scheme in Broadgate Close, Northrepps. We have been supporting the scheme through the whole process working with Broadland Housing Association to build these badly needed homes in our District.

“These new eco homes are incredible important and will help residents reduce costs in the current climate.”

The 18 new homes were designed by architects Ingleton Wood and are being built by Norwich-based contractor Smith of Honingham.

The 19 new homes are due for completion in spring 2024.