A £2.2m affordable housing development in Kettering has been recognised for its eco-credentials at a recent ceremony at the House of Commons with a national award.
Whiteford Drive, the first scheme Loughborough-based contractor and developer, William Davis Ltd has constructed to Code for Sustainable Home (CSH) Level 5, was awarded a Gold Green Apple Award for Environmental Best Practice in acknowledgment of its many energy saving technologies.
The development, built in partnership with housing and regeneration group, LHA-ASRA on land provided by Kettering Borough Council, comprises a total of 18 highly sustainable two and three bedroom family homes across three sites; Whiteford Drive, Hawson Close and Fishton Close, towards the South of the town centre. The new properties benefit from photovoltaic solar panels, mechanical heat recovery systems, rainwater harvesting, high levels of insulation, low energy light fittings and water saving devices as well as being equipped with recycling bins and compost facilities for kitchen waste.
Collecting the award from Chris Hopkins, star of BBC2’s Dragons’ Den, Stephen Fisher, business development manager at William Davis said: “Whiteford Drive was a milestone scheme for the company in terms of sustainable, affordable housing so we are extremely pleased it has been nationally recognised as an example of how energy efficiency can be incorporated into the modern family environment.”
Michele Walker, programme delivery manager, LHA-ASRA added: “Winning the top prize at the Green Apple Awards highlights the build quality of Whiteford Drive. Transforming disused land into affordable family homes is a real boost for the area and by incorporating eco-friendly elements into the build, we have brought long-term benefits to residents including lower energy costs.”
Completed in June 2011, the new homes at Whiteford Drive were made available for social/affordable rent.
