Equans, an autonomous business within Engie Group, has received a contract, worth £35m, to deliver a sustainable new housing development scheme in Winsford, Cheshire in the UK.

The mixed tenure scheme, which will comprise 268 homes, is being developed by a consortium comprising Qwest, Cheshire West and Chester Council and the Riverside Group.

The consortium has secured funding through the UK government’s £450m local authority accelerated construction (LAAC) programme.

The programme aims to help unlock public land and accelerate house-building schemes of local authority.

Equans said it has developed an energy strategy that exceeds planning policy of Cheshire West and Chester Council and supports its wider net zero carbon ambitions.  

The strategy will see the use of enhanced building fabrics, efficient heating systems and photovoltaic (PV) solar panels across every plot.

Other ecological enhancements planned to be incorporated into the site include the creation of new ponds and seven new grass playing pitches for the community.

It will also include construction of new footpath to link to wider areas of Winsford.

Equans UK & Ireland (North West) regional managing direct Tim Wood said the innovative housing scheme will create a new, low carbon neighbourhood for the Cheshire community.  

“Sustainability and modern construction methods are at the core of this scheme and the heart of our business strategy – as we look to support our partners embrace the energy transition we face and work towards a net zero carbon future.”

QWEST managing director Ben Cummins said: “This is the second scheme for Qwest homes, and we will continue to ensure local supply chain and employment are key drivers in this and future schemes.”

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The sustainable new housing development scheme will comprise 268 homes. Credit: Photo Mix from Pixabay.