Equans has worked with Tamworth Borough Council to improve the thermal efficiency of 50 council-owned homes in Hockley.

The £3.2 million project has included installing new highly-efficient external wall insulation – covered by modern white render.

Roofs have been replaced and insulated and new double-glazed windows and doors have been installed. New ventilation systems will help air circulate, reducing the risk of dampness and mould.

Carbon emissions from the properties will be reduced by around 2,000 tonnes over the lifetime of the technology installed across the scheme – as much as 1.6 tonnes of carbon per property each year, equivalent to the amount absorbed by approximately 70 trees.

-- Advertisement --

The previously hard-to-heat homes now have Energy Performance Certificate ratings as high as C – an improvement from pre-work ratings which were as low as E.

Mrs Gale, who has lived in her home in Hockley for the last 12 years, said: "Before the work my home could be really cold – especially in winter - and I had to use draught excluders and turn the heating right up.

"I noticed that my house felt warmer as soon as the new windows were put in. The changes have made a huge difference both in temperature and in the house’s appearance and I'd encourage anyone in a position to have the same work done to go ahead – it is well worth it."

Chris Caffrey, Operations Director at Equans, added: "These homes have been completely transformed and are a prime example of how all social housing and council-owned homes could look and function in the future.

"We're proud to build on our long-standing relationship with Tamworth Borough Council and to use our low-carbon expertise to help reduce emissions from homes typical of those found across the UK."