Waverley Borough Council has appointed South East-based community creator Thakeham to build 30 new social and affordable homes on a site at Ockford Ridge in Godalming.
The new homes will focus on increasing renewable technology to help local people with the cost of living, the range of 18 new houses and 12 new flats will be made available for shared ownership purchase, social and affordable rent. Work will begin in autumn 2022 and is expected to be completed in October 2023. The £7million contract is Thakeham’s fourth for Waverley Borough Council and the third scheme appointment at Ockford Ridge.
These 30 homes at Ockford Ridge will be net zero carbon in lifetime operation, meaning that the carbon emissions associated with the building’s energy on an annual basis are zero or negative. Each home will feature an air source heat pump on top of the features Thakeham built into previous phases including a pre-insulated frame, waste water heat recovery, solar panels and EV car charging for most plots.
Rob Boughton, CEO of Thakeham, said: “We have already completed 54 affordable homes at Ockford Ridge, delivering much-needed zero carbon in operation, social and affordable housing. A number of former residents have now returned to the area in new homes.
“In this next phase, we will continue our focus on the broader social impact of the development in the way our homes and community could help residents with the cost of living. Our design of zero-carbon homes will significantly reduce lifetime costs for local homeowners by reducing the demand for heating.
“We are especially proud of the relationship we have built with the local community. We appointed a Resident Liaison Officer to manage communications with the community and are working with Waverley Borough Council and the local community through the school and community centre to ensure that our time at Ockford Ridge creates a legacy for generations to come.”
Councillor Nick Palmer, co-portfolio holder for housing (delivery), said: “The homes built at Ockford Ridge are a mark of pride for the council. We have delivered modern, sustainable homes for the community with enhanced environmental standards. The next phase will see the use of renewable technology and homes which will be net zero carbon in operation and we are pleased to continue working in partnership with Thakeham to bring our aims to fruition.”
