18 July 2006

Key national and regional board members and directors from the Housing Corporation were in Normandy yesterday to visit the environmentally friendly housing scheme at Manor Farm Close. It is the first rural development in the South East to achieve the EcoHomes excellent rating and was visited as an example of best practice. 

Built on part of a former fruit farm owned by the council, the innovative development consists of 12 homes for rent, which were specifically built to meet the needs of the local area. They were designed by the Greenoak Housing Association in partnership with the council and Normandy Parish Council.

David Williams, Chief Executive of Guildford Borough Council, explains:

“Yesterday’s visit was one of only four that the Housing Corporation has made to housing schemes throughout the South East.  It highlights the importance of the Normandy development as a pioneering project.  It’s a great example of how the local community, local authorities and Housing Associations can work in partnership to create affordable housing that is tailored to meet the needs of the local community and minimises the environmental impact.”

The 12 semi-detached, high performance timber-framed homes were specifically built to be cost effective and to reduce the impact of CO2 emissions. Special features include, triple-glazed windows, super-insulated walls, low water use WCs, spray taps and low energy light fittings.

The Housing Corporation is responsible for allocating funding for all affordable housing. Their visit to Normandy will hopefully put the council in a strong position to bid for further funding.

Press  contact: Laura Hanbury, Assistant Communications Officer
Tel: 01483 444337 
Fax: 01483 444023
Email: laura.hanbury@guildford.gov.uk