Eco homes developed in Somerset

A developer has begun work on a series of new low carbon homes in Somerset, according to reports.

The Green Building Press has observed that Ecos Homes has begun construction on its new development on a brown field site in Stawell.

Five environmentally-friendly houses are to be built, each with a Code for Sustainable Homes rating of five, meaning that no CO2 will be emitted from the heating, lighting or hot water systems.

High levels of insulation, solar panelling and biomass energy will be among the eco features of the properties, while specially landscaped gardens will encourage wildlife and provide opportunity for residents to grow their own produce.

A shared electric pool car will be available to those who live in the houses, as well as internal sun spaces that make the most of the sun's energy.

Meanwhile, plans for a new eco-town in Leicester were unveiled last week as English Partnerships and the Co-operative Group revealed three potential layouts for the development.