Counting on Eco-Homes

27.6.07 Inspired Developments, the regeneration arm of construction group Seddon is to transform a site in Manchester into 10 new eco-homes.

The innovative new development of traditional four bedroom homes features a range of unprecedented environmental credentials, and has been designed to reflect and complement local architecture, and to achieve an ‘Excellent’ EcoHomes Standard.

The homes will be built by G & J Seddon, part of the Seddon Group, using new techniques and Modern Methods of Construction. Interior walls will use Structural Insulated Panels with excellent insulating properties, meaning considerable energy and heating savings; domestic wind turbines will produce electricity to supplement mains use for some of the properties, and solar roof panels will also contribute to hot water production by up to 30 per cent. Advanced heat recovery ventilation systems will save on energy required for heating the properties by re-circulating clean, warm, recycled air.

Low energy lighting and super-insulated hot water tanks sit alongside other innovations such as water management systems for taps, dual flush toilets and water restricted radiators that save on water and energy bills. All energy costs are being monitored by Glamorgan University to demonstrate that less energy will be consumed by future occupants.