England's first large-scale development to be built to Level 6 of the Code for Sustainable Homes, has been given the green light to move ahead.

Barratt Developments Plc and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) have received planning permission to build 195 zero carbon homes as part of the Hanham Hall 'eco village' in South Gloucestershire.

The eco village is part of the Carbon Challenge programme run by the HCA, the national housing and regeneration agency. The new homes will be constructed using energy efficient materials, with very high insulation standards to conserve energy and water use in a design by HTA Architects integrating buildings in a landscaped setting that benefits both residents and local wildlife. Materials from the existing buildings on the site will be recycled in the new development and heat from air extracted from the homes will be recycled. Rainwater will be harvested for use in homes and gardens and residents will have access to allotments and orchards to grow their own produce.

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Hanham Hall itself, a former hospital building, will be refurbished and transformed into a community centre for the neighbourhood. The centre will include a 'sustainable living hub' to help people become 'greener'; with access to a crèche, café and a base for a car club. A community owned and run development trust will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the entire neighbourhood, including building maintenance, car sharing and gardening clubs.

Under the Code for Sustainable Homes, a new home's sustainability is measured against nine categories of sustainable design. These include reducing energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions through use of new technologies; consideration of health and well being within communities and household management and steps implemented to minimise ecological impact.

Work on site is due to start by the end of this year and the first homes are planned to be completed by 2010.

(CD/JM)