Housing Secretary unveils green housing ‘revolution’

A new green standard for new build homes will bring an ‘environmental revolution’ to home building, according to the government.

Unveiled by the Housing Secretary, Robert Jenrick, the Future Homes Standard will see fossil fuel heating systems such as gas boilers banned from new homes by 2025 and instead they will be replaced with the latest generation of clean technology.

Using new technologies such as air source heat pumps and solar panels, developers will need to ensure they are doing their bit to tackle the threat of climate change by cutting carbon emissions.

As a result, homeowners could save on their energy bills as developments in the fabric of the buildings will help to drive down the cost of keeping the home warm.

The government has also announced plans for a new national design code that will ensure developers build, ‘beautiful, well-designed home that people are proud to live in.’

In the coming months, every single local authority across the country will be expected to produce their own design guide which reflects their unique setting, character, and history, while also meeting the national standard.

Mr. Jenrick said: ‘Building new homes isn’t just about bricks and mortar, I want to ensure everyone, including developers, do their bit to protect the environment and give the next generation beautiful, environmentally friendly homes that local communities can support, which is why I am requiring carbon emissions are cut by up to 80% from 2025 for all new homes.’

The government has also confirmed further funding for another round of the pocket parks program, helping communities to transform unloved and neglected urban areas into new green spaces.

An additional £1.35m has been made available for local communities, this follows the initial £3.7m fund which was created for new pocket parks and to allow the refurbishment of existing parks.

These funded projects will be led by community groups, in partnership with local authorities, to refurbish parks and encourage community activities. The government says they want everyone to have the opportunity to enjoy green spaces near to where they live.

Photo credit — Pixabay