The Welsh Government has agreed a contract with Barratt Redrow to deliver the UK’s largest net zero carbon housing development.
The deal, which was managed by Savills Cardiff, will see the delivery of 576 highly energy efficient new homes – 50 per cent of which will be affordable – at Cosmeston Farm in the Vale of Glamorgan.
Cardiff University has been appointed to independently assess and verify data that monitors zero carbon performance of the homes.
The development, which is believed to be one of the biggest net zero schemes in Europe, will also include a new primary school, open space and an active travel route, creating a comprehensive sustainable community. Half the homes will be affordable, with 219 set to be available for social rent.
On a recent visit to the site, the Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant, said: "This landmark development sets a new standard for sustainable housing not only in Wales but across the UK and beyond.
“This isn't just about building homes - it's about creating thriving communities and tackling the climate emergency head-on. Our net zero policy is driving real investment and real change in how we build the homes Wales desperately needs.
"The agreement with Barratt Redrow represents a significant step-change that shows what's possible when we put people and our planet first, and I’m particularly pleased with their commitment to delivering training and apprenticeships, helping to build skills and careers for the next generation.”
David Thomas, Chief Executive of Barratt Redrow, said: “As one of leading housebuilders in Wales we are proud to be working with the Welsh Government to build the largest net zero new community in the UK.
“It will be an exemplar development and a great place to live, with fantastic community facilities, a strong commitment to affordable housing, and cutting-edge sustainability credentials. Every highly energy efficient home will be heated by a ground source heat pump and powered by photovoltaic panels and batteries, cutting carbon and bills for future residents.”
Scott Caldwell, head of Savills Cardiff Development said: “This commitment by Barratt Redrow, the largest PLC housebuilder in the UK, is believed to be the first of its kind at this scale in the UK. It represents a significant investment and harnesses a raft of industry expertise and knowledge to help demonstrate how delivery standards can be implemented at scale to support the Welsh Government’s journey towards net zero.
“Learning from the Cosmeston journey is expected to help inform how development can deliver to more stringent environmental standards into the future.”
