Hook Norton’s eco-friendly housing wins award
We’d like to extend a huge congratulations to the Hook Norton Community Land Trust for winning the prestigious Best affordable housing development – less than £5m award at the Inside Housing Development Awards 2024! This award is a true reflection of what a community can achieve when it rallies together for a shared, sustainable future.
The prize-winning Bourne Green project in Hook Norton
The Hook Norton Community Land Trust’s Bourne Green project is a shining beacon of eco-friendly housing, featuring 12 homes built to Passivhaus-equivalent standards. These homes were designed with ultra-low carbon footprints, using better-than-carbon-zero building techniques. Beyond the environmental impact, the project supports the community with eight affordable rental homes and four available at market prices, ensuring an inclusive neighbourhood that reflects the heart of Hook Norton.
The judges felt that this development is an exemplar, addressing affordable housing needs through sustainable and innovative practices. The focus on community involvement, environmental sustainability, and social cohesion sets a high standard for those delivering new homes. The integration of advanced technologies and a strong community-oriented approach is commendable.
What makes the Bourne Green project even more remarkable is its innovative energy system. In partnership with Hook Norton Low Carbon and SNRG, the project includes a smart microgrid that harnesses energy from rooftop solar panels. This renewable energy powers not only the homes but also a community building and a Car Club, showing what’s possible when energy-conscious design meets community needs.
It all began with a seed of ambition, supported by an OxFutures Grant for a feasibility study back in 2018, and it has blossomed into a shining example of sustainable living. This achievement highlights that grassroots efforts can tackle not only the housing crisis but also the climate emergency, creating a fairer and more sustainable future for rural communities.
Not only did Bourne Green win at the Inside Housing Awards, it also scooped up another prize on the same day – winning a prize for Best Low Carbon Homes Development at the Evening Standard Awards. A well-deserved double win for this outstanding project!
Be part of something bigger: invest in the Homes for Hooky share offer
This success is not just about the awards – it’s about a brighter, greener future for Hook Norton. Right now, the Homes for Hooky community share offer is open, and you can be part of this inspiring project! By investing before the share offer closes on 20 October 2024, you’ll be contributing to the final phase of funding and making a tangible difference in your local community.
Why invest?
- Create affordable housing: Your investment helps provide permanently affordable rental homes in Hook Norton, addressing the local housing crisis.
- Power the community with renewables: The smart microgrid will ensure the entire community benefits from renewable energy.
- Support social wellbeing: Communal spaces like a co-working hub and rooms for hire will help foster connections and combat social isolation.
- Earn a return: Investors could earn up to 6% annual interest – a socially impactful and potentially rewarding opportunity.
Don’t miss your chance to support a project that’s making a difference.
Feeling inspired? Make your own home a sustainable haven
Hook Norton’s Bourne Green development is an amazing example of what sustainable housing can look like, but you don’t need to live in a new-build to enjoy the benefits of energy efficiency. With Cosy Homes Oxfordshire, you can transform your own home into a warm, energy-efficient haven all year round.
Retrofitting involves updating older homes with modern, energy-efficient technologies and materials. Whether your goal is to lower energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, or simply make your home more comfortable, Cosy Homes Oxfordshire can help you every step of the way. Their free advice service is a perfect starting point to make your home cosier and more eco-friendly.
Find out more today and take the first step towards a more comfortable, energy-efficient home!