£5m eco housing scheme for Upton in Pontefract

A £5m affordable eco housing scheme is to deliver 49 new properties to Upton in Pontefract.

34 homes will available for social rent and 15 homes will be available to purchase on completion in October 2011, on shared ownership or for intermediate rent.

All of the properties are being constructed to meet Level 4 & 5 of the Code for Sustainable Homes which means they will all be 25 per cent more energy efficient than a home built in 2006.


The layout of the site has been carefully planned to complement the local area, maximise the potential for solar collection and provide clear lines of sight across the scheme to create natural surveillance, an example of crime prevention through design.

All the new homes will benefit from some of the latest eco-technology such as solar roof tiles, high levels of thermal insulation, heat recovery systems, dedicated energy efficient light fittings and recycling facilities so the homes can generate their own power and keep fuel costs low for prospective tenants.

The construction is environmentally friendly, with measures in place to reduce building waste, carbon outputs and use environmentally friendly materials.

Councillor Denise Jeffery, Wakefield Council's Deputy Leader with responsibility for regeneration and economic growth, said: "This is much needed affordable housing for the district and I am really pleased to see work underway."

Further information:
Homes and Communities Agency