Architect requests approval to build carbon-neutral flats (From Malvern Gazette)

Architect requests approval to build carbon-neutral flats

10:52am Friday 24th August 2007 in News

A CARBON-neutral development of flats could be created in Malvern Link if architect Simon Kirton's plans are approved.

Mr Kirton has just put in a planning application to knock down the existing house at 31 Upper Howsell Road and build two blocks with six flats each on the site. He says he has long been interested in creating sustainable housing and has worked with government bodies on environmental building standards.

"As far as I know, this will be the first such development in the area," he said this week.

One of the main ways of reducing the energy consumption of the flats, he said, is to position them so they capture the maximum amout of heat and light from the sun.

The flats will be fitted with solar panels to generate hot water, photovoltaic arrays to create electricity, "solar chimneys" which will act as a passive means of ventilation for the flats, and a biomass boiler burning wood pellets.

They will also feature rainwater and grey water recycling systems, highly insulated building materials, sealed triple-glazing units and smart metering, to help the occupants identify any remaining energy wastage.

Mr Kirton said homes like these are likely to be the way of the future.

"By 2016, the Government expects that all houses will have to be net carbon neutral," he said. "It's likely that we will see a change in the way we will be taxed, with more emphasis on taxes on carbon impact."