White Willows earns a top green grading for Sheffield

New housing for older people in Sheffield has officially been named as one of the country’s greenest developments by industry experts.

White Willows Extra Care Housing Scheme in Jordanthorpe is the first development of its kind in England to achieve an ‘excellent’ rating from the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM).

The £7 million development was built by Bramall Construction on behalf of South Yorkshire Housing Association (SYHA) in partnership with Sheffield City Council.

Environmentally conscious measures at White Willows include solar panels and a grass roof to absorb rain water, creating a thriving habitat for insects and birds and improving the insulation. Other stand-out features on the 60-unit scheme include a specially designed glass atrium which lets natural light and warmth into the building.

BREEAM considered elements including emissions, materials used, waste levels, land use and proximity to local transport and amenities before awarding White Willows the highest possible rating.

Mark Whitley, New Build Manager at Bramall Construction, said: “The fact that this is the only Extra Care Housing scheme in England to achieve the highest possible rating from BREEAM is due recognition for the fantastic work that has gone into this project.

“We are proud to see its name up in lights.”

Residents living at White Willows have their own front door, can come and go as they please and have the freedom to access the splendid community facilities including; a restaurant, a hairdressing salon, IT facilities, a communal sitting room, relaxation bathroom and coffee lounge.
Cllr Bob McCann, Sheffield City Council's Cabinet Member for Housing and Sustainable, Safer Communities, said: "When I had a look round the White Willows development I found it very impressive. The scheme is a perfect example of the high standards we encourage from partners.
“It just goes to show that building affordable housing does not mean compromising on sustainability. I hope all the new residents will be happy there."
Residents have started moving in, with all affordable rented apartments taken and a few remaining sale and shared ownership apartments still available.

Tony Stacey, SYHA Chief Executive, said: “White Willows Extra Care Housing Scheme offers design solutions for the comfort and convenience of the over 55s; providing both security and peace of mind.

“We are delighted to have been awarded the ‘excellent’ rating from BREEAM; working in partnership with both Bramall Construction and Sheffield City Council has made this possible.”