A housing development in Newport is said to be the first in Wales to use an innovative structural insulated panelised (SIP) system manufactured by Etopia.
Newport City Homes (NCH) is delivering eight new properties in Lliswerry using the panels, which are manufactured offsite. Local contractor Yourspace Projects has built the net-zero homes at Somerton Road, on the site of the former Black Horse Inn.
The development has been named Cwrt Y March, and includes six two-bedroom houses and two one-bedroom flats, which will be available on NCH’s Home Options housing register. The new homes are expected to be ready for people to move in later this month.
Peter Page, NCH’s development manager, said: “Working towards net-zero carbon is key for us, and we’re thrilled to be the first in Wales to use these new panels in our development of homes in Somerton.
We know energy bills are a worry for many of our customers, and the solar panels built into the design of these new homes will help facilitate the use of renewable energy and keep costs down for customers, now and in the future.”
Chris Davey, at Yourspace Projects, added: “We’re pleased to announce the successful completion of our latest project to deliver these high performing homes. A first for Wales building with Etopia’s frame solution.
“Yourspace Projects takes pride in introducing innovative approaches to construct high-quality homes for our valued client, Newport City Homes. Our commitment to adopting new technologies reflects our dedication to improving industry efficiencies and providing cost-effective homes for the future.
“We appreciate Newport City Homes for their ongoing support and forward-thinking, which has played a crucial role in our ability to explore and incorporate new technologies. Their partnership has allowed us to learn and grow, contributing to our ongoing success.”
As Page mentioned, the sustainable design also includes solar panels on the roof, with batteries to store the renewable energy for use at peak times. These are expected to provide “substantial savings” for residents on their energy bills.
The development was made possible thanks to £1.28m in capital funding from Welsh Government through the Social Housing Grant.
Using community benefit funding allocated through the development, NCH and Yourspace Projects have also made improvements to a popular local bus stop, working with Newport City Council to make it wider and safer, with a new shelter.
Nicola Clayton, head of business development at Etopia, said: “It’s been a pleasure working with Newport City Homes and Yourspace Projects to deliver the first scheme in Wales that utilises the unique properties of the Etopia system.
“[It] uses structural insulated panels to build the superstructure of a home that will be energy efficient, reduce carbon emissions and most importantly deliver high-quality homes that are affordable to heat for the people of Newport.
“We look forward to working with Housing Providers in Wales to deliver homes and provide training, up-skilling, and employment opportunities for Welsh communities.”
Main image: The new homes at Cwrt Y March
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