Building work is set to start on a new affordable housing development in Bicester which will set a new standard for sustainability in the Cherwell District.

Sanctuary Group, in partnership with Cherwell District Council and contractors Mansell, is to begin the next phase of work on a £3.3 million project, supported by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), to deliver 23 energy efficient homes in Chapel Street.

Set for completion next summer, Bryan House will comprise a mix of rented and four shared ownership homes which will all be built to Levels 4 and 5 of the Code for Sustainable Homes.

Affordable homes in the district had previously reached Level 3, but Bryan House will reach new eco-heights with properties incorporating a range of energy efficient features including photo voltaic (solar panel) cells, triple glazed windows, rainwater harvesting and high levels of insulation.

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Simon Clark, Sanctuary's Group Director – Housing and Communities, said: "Sanctuary is committed to providing high quality, affordable housing that meet the needs of local people so we are delighted go be able to support Cherwell District Council in their aims to provide sustainable, energy efficient housing.

"These homes will not only provide much needed accommodation for the people of Bicester, they will incorporate features designed to keep carbon levels and energy bills low."

The exemplar sustainable housing scheme forms part of the wider Eco Bicester initiative and will incorporate both modern and traditional materials in a design which is sympathetic with its conservation area location.

Councillor Barry Wood, Leader of Cherwell District Council, said: "Eco Bicester is about helping everyone in the town benefit from the plans for an eco development in their area. The homes being created at Bryan House reach new levels of environmental sustainability in the district.

"As an Eco Bicester demonstration project, many residents will be able to see first-hand what is achievable in new housing projects."

(CD/GK)