Construction begins on capital’s net-zero housing
CONSTRUCTION has begun on a new-build housing development in Edinburgh – said to be the largest ‘net-zero’ project in Scotland of its type.
The development is set for the Granton area of the city, to its north.
Says The City of Edinburgh Council, here: “The start of construction works at the £72m ‘Western Villages’ project represents a significant milestone for The City of Edinburgh Council in the delivery of the £1.3bn Granton Waterfront regeneration project.
“Over the next ten years, 3,500 mixed-tenure homes and associated infrastructure will create a new, sustainable coastal community.”
Helping ‘do the honours’ was the council’s new housing convener, Cllr Jane Meagher (pictured, left).
The announcement continues: “The 444-home masterplan will consist of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, including wheelchair-accessible ground-floor dwellings, available in a mix of social rent (195) mid-market rent (193) and private sale tenures (56) that will each benefit from stunning parkland and sea views.
“To achieve net zero carbon, all homes will be constructed using advanced construction methods to improve thermal performance (and reduce heat loss). Delivered by an on-site energy centre containing air-source heat pumps and renewable technologies such as solar PV panels, this low-carbon heat system and zero emissions strategy is being supported by £4.1m of funding from the Scottish Government’s Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme.
“Complemented by carbon offsetting measures, this pioneering approach to reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions has been developed by CCG in partnership with energy and sustainability consultancy, Carbon Futures. Sustainability credentials will be further enhanced by a reduction in car usage, provision of Electric Vehicle charging, and increased emphasis on active travel to lower the development’s carbon footprint over the longer term.
“Set for completion in 2024, the homes for rent will be managed by the council whilst the private homes will be led by CCG Homes, the private housing arm of the CCG Group.”
Picture credit: The City of Edinburgh Council