The Welsh government has signed a deal with Barratt Redrow to build the UK’s largest net zero housing development, believed to be one of the biggest schemes of its kind in Europe.
The development, at Cosmeston Farm in the Vale of Glamorgan, will deliver 576 new homes designed to achieve net zero carbon through innovative design and technology.
It is claimed that half of the homes will be affordable, with 219 allocated for social rent. Plans for the site also include a new primary school, public open spaces and an active travel route, creating what the government describes as a sustainable community.
Cardiff University has been appointed to independently assess and verify data monitoring the homes’ zero carbon performance.
During a visit to the site, the cabinet secretary for housing and local government, Jayne Bryant, said the project “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,” she said. “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, described the project as “an exemplar development and a great place to live”.
“As one of the 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,” he said. “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.”
The land disposal was managed on behalf of the Welsh government by international property consultancy Savills.
Scott Caldwell, director of Cardiff development for Savills, said the deal was “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,” he said.
Lessons from Cosmeston are expected to help inform how future developments can meet more stringent environmental standards.
Image credit: azem/Shutterstock
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