Claire Young MP toured the site with Barratt David Wilson Homes South West’s managing director, Ralph Hawkins, construction director, Mark Hughes and the project manager from Ladden Garden Village, Chris Ahearne. Ms Young was also joined by Barratt Homes Bristol’s managing director, Rob Hart and construction director, Kevin White.
During the visit, Ms Young met Barratt David Wilson Homes South West and Barratt Homes Bristol employees from both construction and sales. The group discussed the innovative construction techniques used to build energy-efficient homes as well as the company’s commitment to developing skills in the South West.
Last year 20 apprentices, graduates and trainees participated in training programmes across Barratt David Wilson Homes South West and Barratt Homes Bristol, contributing an estimated £218,000 to the wider economy.
The two housebuilders are incorporating enhanced energy efficiency standards in the latest phase of Ladden Garden Village with all future phases also designed to meet the updated Part L Building Regulations. These standards aim to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, helping homeowners save hundreds of pounds on energy bills while aligning with the Future Homes Standard set for 2025.
Claire Young MP said: “Tackling the climate crisis is a top priority for the Liberal Democrats and that’s why we want to see the UK reach net zero emissions. As the UK’s largest housebuilder, Barratt David Wilson Homes has a big role to play here in the South West and the use of energy-efficient technology for new homes in Yate is one step towards reaching that goal.”
Ralph Hawkins, managing director of Barratt David Wilson Homes South West, added: “It was a privilege to welcome Claire Young MP to Ladden Garden Village and showcase the Part L properties we’re building in her constituency. As demonstrated during the tour, it is possible to successfully balance the demand for quality housing with consideration for the environment.”
Rob Hart, managing director of Barratt Homes Bristol, said: “It was fantastic to provide an insight into sustainability which is a side of the housebuilding process that is often overlooked. From energy-efficient technology to rigorous environmental measures, we’re committed to creating homes that support a greener future.”
The EPC-rated A/B homes at Ladden Garden Village comprise a number of energy-efficient features, including photovoltaic panels, decentralised mechanical extract ventilation, waste water heat recovery systems, argon-filled double glazing and flue gas heat recovery.
The Ladden Garden Village scheme is set within 32 acres of open space and features a mix of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes with RSPB-friendly gardens, four acres of play areas, three acres of allotments, sports pitches and 4.5km of footpaths and cycleways. The development also includes a supermarket and on-site nursery while there is also provision to add a new primary school.
