Stonewater completes 30 Passivhaus homes in Somerset
Affordable housing provider Stonewater has completed 30 Passivhaus-certified homes in Somerset, delivering a new affordable housing development designed to reduce energy consumption while helping meet local housing demand.
The homes, located in South Petherton, form the second phase of a wider development and have been constructed to Passivhaus standards, incorporating energy-efficient building techniques and renewable technologies to lower running costs for residents.
The scheme provides a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom homes for affordable rent and has been delivered on a former brownfield site in partnership with Somerset Council, Fisher & Dean Construction Ltd and Blue Spruce Properties Ltd.
Passivhaus design supports affordable housing and net zero ambitions
The homes feature enhanced insulation, airtight construction, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) systems and roof-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to improve energy performance and reduce heat loss.
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Stonewater said the development supports both its own net zero ambitions and wider efforts to improve the sustainability of new affordable housing.
Alongside the new homes, the development includes landscaped communal green spaces, biodiversity planting and a community garden featuring public artwork inspired by the site’s history as a former flax mill.
An official opening ceremony was held to mark completion of the project, attended by representatives from Stonewater, Somerset Council, Fisher & Dean Construction, architects BoonBrown and other project partners.
Matthew Crucefix, Group Director of Development at Stonewater, said: “Completing this development is an important milestone for Stonewater and for the local community in Somerset.
“These high-quality homes will provide local people with affordable places to live while helping reduce energy bills through Passivhaus design and renewable technology.
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“At the same time, the development creates attractive shared spaces that encourage customers to connect with their neighbours and enjoy the outdoor environment.
“We’re proud to have worked alongside our partners to deliver a scheme that combines sustainability, affordability and community, and we look forward to welcoming customers into their new homes.”
Partnership delivers new affordable homes for local community
Somerset Council said the development will help address local housing need while improving the availability of energy-efficient affordable homes.
Councillor Sarah Wakefield, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Adult Services, Housing and Homelessness, said: “It’s fantastic to see these much-needed affordable homes completed and ready to welcome new residents.
“This development will help meet local housing need while providing high-quality, energy-efficient homes that are built to last. Working in partnership with organisations such as Stonewater is essential to delivering the affordable homes our communities need, and we’re pleased to have supported this scheme.”
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Nils Richard, Senior Associate Solicitor at Clarke Willmott, added: “It’s fantastic to see the next stage of the project taking shape.
“Stonewater’s investment is delivering high-quality affordable homes that meet local need, and we’re proud to have supported the project throughout its progression.
“Both phases have delivered 100 per cent affordable housing, with the latest homes built to Passivhaus standards, making them exceptionally energy efficient, comfortable and affordable to run. That focus on sustainability and long term efficiency will make a real difference to local people.
“It was also a pleasure to meet residents and reconnect with Stonewater’s team, the architects, contractors and council officers.”
The development forms part of Stonewater’s ongoing affordable housing programme, with the housing association continuing to invest in energy-efficient homes that support lower carbon emissions while reducing household energy costs.
