The
plot originally housed a single detached house owned by Sovereign
Housing Association. Because of the property's age, refurbishment to
meet the Decent Homes Standard would have been expensive; therefore the
decision was made to re-develop the site.
During
the early stages of the project Sovereign Housing Association recognised
a need to provide a permanent space for the community's village store.
Planning was granted for 5 new timber frame 1 and 2-bedroom apartments,
together with a new post office and shop, which were of traditional
build.
As well
as ground source heat pumps providing underfloor heating for residents
at low cost, the development also gained Secure By Design and EcoHomes certifications.
Furthermore, the project won the regional Best Community
Project at the Local Authority Building Control Awards (LABC) in May
2010, as well as being shortlisted as a finalist in the Best Sustainable
Project category.
