11:48am Wednesday 23rd July 2008
By Harry Hogger
Eco-homes planned for new development MORE than 50 eco-homes will be built in a new green development at the Officer's Field on Portland.
A deal has been struck with Poundbury-based developer Zero C for 55 new homes on the Underhill site featuring the latest environmentally-friendly technology.
As part of the agreement between Zero C and the South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA), the existing football pitch will remain and up to £500,000 will be invested in local leisure and community facilities.
The housing project aims to generate at least 50 per cent of its energy from renewable sources, with a biomass boiler used to provide heat and power for the development.
The eco-homes will boast green features such as solar thermal insulation and two electric cars will be available for residents to use on a pooled basis.
Head of regeneration at SWRDA Bruce Voss said: "We are wholly impressed by the submission by Zero C in this scheme and their appointment will assist the aim in securing a low carbon development by 2011 at Osprey Quay.
"SWRDA is committed to making all its investments net zero-carbon by 2013 and this is also a very important step in the wider development of a low-carbon economy in the South West."
Mr Voss added that the homes on the development would be mainly designed for families, with 30 per cent designated as affordable housing to meet urgent housing needs.
He said: "We have already invested millions in Osprey Quay and we are absolutely committed to achieving the greatest possible community benefit for the area."
Cornhill Estates, whose award-winning works included an eco-friendly development in Poundbury, was rebranded this year under the name Zero C to highlight its commitment to sustainable housing.
Managing director Kim Slowe said: "We are delighted to have been chosen to work with SWRDA, local partners and the local community to deliver this exciting, groundbreaking package of new homes for sale and rent that embraces sustainability at every level.
"We will work with all the stakeholders to provide much-improved community and leisure facilities to the highest design standards to create a lasting legacy for Portland."
Zero C will be holding an exhibition and public consultation exercise in September before drawing up a planning application for the scheme, with the aim of completing the development by 2011.
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