TVH celebrates new sustainable homes

Thames Valley Housing (TVH) has marked the completion of its first development built to Level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes.

The Thamesmead development in Walton on Thames incorporates a range of energy efficient and environmentally sensitive features such as insect boxes, water butts, solar panels and improved wall insulation. These additions mean that the 18 new affordable homes are 25% more energy efficient than homes built to standard building regulations.

TVH purchased the site from Elmbridge Borough Council in March 2008, and led on the design of the development, which is made up of 11 houses for affordable rent and 8 homes for part purchase. The Homes and Communities agency provided grant funding to support the development of the scheme.

Geeta Nanda, CEO at Thames Valley Housing, said, “It’s really satisfying to be able to help people to buy or rent an affordable home in what is the most expensive local authority in Surrey. Our partnership with Elmbridge Borough Council has provided homes for local people, which they can be proud to live in.”

The Worshipful the Mayor of the Borough of Elmbridge, Councillor James Vickers said “Demand for affordable, family-sized homes in the borough is high. TVH has responded to the local community’s housing need in the delivery of these well designed, modern, attractive homes.”

David Edwards, Regional Director at the Homes and Communities Agency said: “I am delighted that the Homes and Communities Agency has been able to support the development of both sustainable and affordable homes in Thamesmead.

“In these difficult economic times, providing funding for schemes such as Thamesmead is vital for people to have the opportunities to live in homes they can afford, in the places they want to live.”