A planning application has been submitted by Smith Jenkins for a new net zero carbon and zero fossil fuel community in Bedfordshire
The Greenwoods zero fossil fuel community will benefit from an on-site solar PV park and over 100 hectares of landscaped public open space.
The proposals for the zero fossil fuel community exceed the requirements of building regulations and planning policies, and will establish an important precedent for the new national Future Homes Standard.
A range of homes will be provided, including later living, affordable housing and opportunities for self-build.
The proposals have been designed to create a diverse, inclusive, multi-generational community, and have a focus on healthy lifestyles; low cost and energy efficient homes; and adaptable and home working models.
Designed by GSSArchitecture in collaboration with IDP Landscape, the proposals include extensive public open space, including a new woodland, with outdoor sport and recreation facilities appealing to all ages.
The zero fossil fuel community has been designed with a strong emphasis on sustainability. The application demonstrates how the development will achieve net zero carbon for regulated operational carbon, and also commits to detailed design offsetting emissions associated with the construction of buildings.
A highly sustainable new community that will set new standards
The developer, Greenwoods Central Bedfordshire Ltd, commented: “We are delighted to be able to bring forward this unique development in Central Bedfordshire. We have been impressed with the approach that has been taken by the Local Planning Authority to this highly sustainable new community that will set new standards as the country seeks to decarbonise.
“We have a positive level of engagement with the Local Planning Authority, and we are hopeful that the Council will recognise the benefits of these proposals, which seek to significantly increase the sustainability of not just construction, but whole communities. We are designing for a future beyond net carbon zero to truly sustainable and healthy lifestyles, where communities have a positive impact on the environment and where good planning and design can also contribute to social cohesion – we know this can be achieved with our Greenwoods proposals.
A new community where families can truly reflect modern ways of living, working and playing
“From conception to the submission of a planning application, we have sought at every stage to make Greenwoods uniquely green, not just in the use of renewable energies, but in our approach to the use of new technologies, open spaces and the planting of over 100,000 new trees, to create a new community where families can truly reflect modern ways of living, working and playing.
“Greenwoods proposes significant benefits for the wider area, including new employment and transport linkages. We know that Greenwoods will deliver a new community that Central Bedfordshire can be proud of, and we believe the proposals raise the bar for sustainable development that the Local Planning Authority can demand from every development proposal.”
