Building low‑carbon homes for the future

Built to be Climate‑Resilient

We design homes to cope with a changing climate – using robust materials and thoughtful design so homes remain safe and comfortable through more frequent heat, heavy rainfall and extreme weather.

To reduce the risk of overheating during warmer summers, we may include:

• Using shading and window design to limit direct sun
• Installing high‑performance glazing
• Providing ventilation that supports comfort, safety and security

We also consider factors such as noise, air quality and building safety, so each home supports residents’ wellbeing as well as energy performance.

Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)

Where it makes sense, we use Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) – manufacturing more of the home in a factory and assembling it on site. This approach can improve build quality, shorten programmes and reduce construction waste.

Factory processes can be more controlled and efficient, and can support better material management and responsible sourcing — helping reduce the carbon impact of construction where MMC is appropriate.

• Reducing waste and landfill
• Improving ‘right first time’ quality, with less re‑work on site

We’re also exploring standardised components where appropriate, to support easier repairs and more reuse and recycling over a building’s lifetime.

• Supporting simpler maintenance and access to replacement parts

Low‑Carbon Heating and Heat Pumps

We use energy‑efficient, low‑carbon heating in our new homes, with heat pumps playing an increasing role. In well‑insulated homes, they can provide reliable heating and hot water, and help future‑proof homes as the UK moves to cleaner energy.

We design and commission systems to meet recognised industry standards and good practice, including:

• Efficient system design in line with MCS guidance, assessed room by room
• Radiators or underfloor heating sized to work effectively at lower temperatures

This helps make sure low‑carbon heating performs well from day one and supports long‑term affordability.

Supporting Nature and Wellbeing Through Biodiversity Net Gain

We aim to leave nature better than we found it. Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) means our developments should create more – or better quality – habitat for wildlife, alongside greener outdoor spaces that residents can enjoy.

For each scheme, we assess the site and focus on three priorities:

1. Protecting existing habitats where possible
2. Reducing impacts during construction
3. Creating and improving habitats in and around the development

We choose planting that suits the location, supports wildlife and is practical to maintain.

• Native trees, hedgerows and wildflowers
• Wildlife‑friendly features and boundaries
• Sustainable drainage that manages heavy rainfall and supports habitats

We also look for opportunities across our wider neighbourhoods to improve biodiversity and capture carbon — especially where a single site has limited options.

High Performance, Measurable Outcomes

We set targets and track performance so we can demonstrate outcomes. Depending on the scheme and the standard used, this can include:

• Lower carbon – designs can achieve significantly lower emissions than baseline requirements (in some cases, up to 60%)
• Cleaner heating – lower‑carbon technologies such as heat pumps can reduce emissions compared with fossil‑fuel systems
• Lower energy use – homes can use less energy than today’s minimum requirements (in some cases, up to 25%)

Creating homes and places that last

By combining strong design, low‑carbon technology and greener spaces, we’re creating homes that last — supporting lower bills, better comfort and healthier neighbourhoods, while reducing our environmental impact over the long term.