Mansell has secured a £3.1 million design and build contract for 32 affordable flats in a four and five-storey accommodation block in Westminster for Pocket.

The flats, designed by award winning architects Darling Associates, will achieve Code for Sustainable Homes Level Four and will employ the use of ground source heat pumps and photovoltaic panels and enhanced levels of insulation and green walls to aid biodiversity.

All timber is to be from FSC managed sources. There are also a number of initiatives to generate a sustainable community including a communal sun lounge and roof top garden with areas for planting herbs and vegetables.

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The interiors of the flats have been designed to Pocket's high standards of specification. All incorporate underfloor heating, bicycle storage and large windows for enhanced daylight levels.

Modern methods of construction will be employed on site. The structure of the building will comprise a lightweight steel frame.

In the first deal of its kind, property giant Land Securities and private affordable housing developer Pocket have joined forces to transform the way property companies deliver their affordable housing obligations.

In association with Westminster City Council, Land Securities and Pocket are piloting an innovative new planning approach. This allows the local authority to use funds from developers in lieu of building affordable housing on-site to buy land in Westminster on which Pocket will build intermediate homes that remain affordable in perpetuity.

Work has recently started on site and will complete in October 2011.

(CD/GK)