An eco-friendly, affordable housing development in Kettering has
received a prestigious award at last week's Green Apple Environment
Awards.
Built on land lain waste for years, eighteen much-needed family
homes have been awarded Gold for regeneration in building and
construction.
The Green Apple Environment Awards, run by The Green
Organisation, recognise eco-friendly initiatives and efforts in
sustainability.
The two and three bedroom homes in Whiteford Drive were
commissioned by Leicester-based social housing group LHA-ASRA after
Kettering Borough Council provided a section of unused allotments
and garages for the development.
The properties are designed and built to one of the highest
'green' standards - Level Five of the Government's Code for
Sustainable Homes - by Nottingham-based Franklin Ellis Architects
and contractor and developer William Davis Ltd based in
Loughborough.
The roofs encompass photovoltaic solar panels, plus extra thick
loft and cavity wall insulation to increase energy
efficiency.
Michele Walker, programme delivery manager at LHA-ASRA, said:
"Winning top prize at the Green Apple Environment Awards highlights
the build quality of Whiteford Drive.
"Transforming disused land into affordable family homes is a
real boost for the area. By incorporating eco-friendly elements
into the build, we have brought long-term benefits to residents
including lower energy costs.
"Properties are also equipped with recycling bins and composting
facilities for kitchen waste."
Whiteford Drive also embraces the bigger 'eco-picture' with the
installation of bird and bug boxes, as well as a reptile refuge to
provide shelter for amphibians in the nearby brook.