First ‘future-proof’ homes set to launch at Callerton development in pilot project

The first series of “future-proof” homes are set to launch as part of a Callerton development west of Newcastle.

Ashberry Homes, part of the Bellway group, is set to have four homes in its Church View development as technologically innovative pilot projects that are designed to improve energy efficiency.

The mix of three and four-bedroom properties are set to be the first built in Bellway’s Future Homes scheme, which is set to be rolled out across the country.

All four of the properties have been designed to comply with the Government’s Future Homes Standard, which will come into effect in 2025.

The standard requires newly-built homes to include future-proofing, including low-carbon heating and energy-efficient options.

Sustainable alternatives for the homes include replacing conventional gas boiler systems with air source heat pumps running on electricity instead of natural gas.

Solar panels will also be installed along the roof tiles to form part of the structure of the roof, rather than being installed on top of the roof.

As a result of the new measures, the homes have received a Predicted Energy Assessment of 98 to 100 A - the highest possible score.

Oliver Wray, Sales Manager for Ashberry Homes, said: “Bellway is determined to harness the latest technological advancements to build enduring homes that will stand the test of time and provide sustainable housing for our customers.

“The launch of these exemplar homes at Church View comes almost three years before the introduction of the Government’s Future Homes Standard, demonstrating that Bellway is at the forefront of the industry’s attempts to minimise its impact on the planet.

“These pioneering homes will be at the centre of our research and development going forwards. As part of the Future Homes project, we will monitor the performance of each of the measures installed within these properties to ensure that they deliver optimal efficiency for their owners as well as provide useful data to inform future innovation.

“There is a great deal of anticipation surrounding the launch of these homes at Church View. The technological solutions they provide will enable buyers to monitor & manage their energy consumption which we predict will help to reduce the impact of rising fuel prices while reducing the size of their own carbon footprints.”