York council has appointed a contractor to build its first ever zero carbon homes.
Caddick Construction will build 112 certified Passivhaus homes on sites at Duncombe Barracks in Clifton and Burnholme in Heworth.
They are part of the council’s housing delivery programme, which is building 600 homes across the city. Between 40-60% will be affordable – more than double what current planning guidelines require.
As much of the homes’ construction will take place off-site, neighbours will find less on-site activity than on conventional builds.
Duncombe Barracks’ neighbours and residents will be invited to meet Caddick’s and the council’s development teams on Monday 20 June.
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They will be able to meet key team members who can answer questions as well as providing information about the building schedule and the techniques that will be used ahead of construction starting on site in July.
A similar event will be organised at Burnhome later this year.
Caddick will create 30 jobs, 22 work placements and a programme of training and development for 14-19-year-olds as part of the project. They also aim to source 70% of their subcontractors and suppliers within 30 miles of the site.
Well insulated
The Passivhaus homes will be extremely well-insulated and will have rooftop solar panels to generate the electricity they require, including for the energy-efficient air-source heat pumps.
To keep the construction low-carbon too, the buildings’ structures will be constructed of timber.
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City of York Council executive member for housing Cllr Denise Craghill welcomed the appointment of Caddick.
“Our shared passion for Passivhaus aims to tackle climate change, energy bills and fuel poverty, and to inspire other developers and builders to be equally progressive and carbon-conscious.
“The high-quality, highly energy efficient homes Caddick will build are a significant step forward for housing in York, whilst also adding at least 40% affordable housing to the city’s stock.”