Work has started on a new build sustainable housing development, Green Street in The Meadows, Nottingham. The running costs of the homes are projected to be less than half that of conventional housing of equivalent size. The 38 three- and four-bed town houses designed by Marsh Grochowski architects will sit next to the picturesque Victoria Gardens on Trent Embankment – within easy reach of The Meadows, West Bridgford and Nottingham City Centre, making car use unnecessary. Courtyard gardens, balconies, and roof terraces provide space to grow a few tomatoes at least. Built by principle contractor, Lovell, the homes will achieve A and high-B EPC ratings and Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes. Selected homes have been designed to Building for Life Gold standard. Each home attempts a combination of good design and sustainability, where renewable technology compliments energy saving and construction features include enhanced thermal mass and super insulation and air tightness above current building standards.

The standard sustainability features of Green Street houses include: High insulation efficiency, giving an average 63% enhancement compared with current industry standards. Exceptional air tightness to minimise heat loss, giving a 70% improvement over the current industry standard. Mechanical ventilation system that retains and recirculates the heat from expelled air. Use of sustainable building materials including timber. A-rated appliances in kitchens and low-energy lighting used inside and outside. Low-flush toilets which encourages efficient water use.

A key feature of the development is a new ‘shared surface’ road leading in to a new pedestrian link with the Victoria Gardens, that brings together that green space and the river beyond, the development and The Meadows neighbourhood.

The show home opens in May with the first 13 of 38 houses ready for occupation late summer, and the whole development due for completion next spring.