Self-build affordable net zero homes could be a national first

Development of eight custom-built homes, which are both net zero carbon and affordable, has been approved by West Oxfordshire District Council.

The May 25 meeting of the council’s cabinet agreed the scheme can go ahead on land the authority owns at Walterbrush Lane in Chipping Norton.

Cllr Geoff Saul, cabinet member for housing, said: “We are incredibly proud to bring forward this scheme in West Oxfordshire that we believe will be a national first in achieving custom-build homes that are both net zero carbon and affordable.

“It shows we are leading the way in pushing boundaries for more affordable homes that are much better for our environment. We hope it will be an example for others and we will see more properties of this type developed to help us tackle both the climate emergency and affordability crisis.”

The homes will come with a 20 per cent discount against the market value and the council has agreed the discount will be applied on all future sales so the houses remain affordable and owners will not be allowed to profit from the discount.

Work will now begin with the developer Green Axis, which will work with people on the Self Build Register to develop the homes.

Craig Strachan, enabling development director at Green Axis, said: “We hope this exemplar scheme will help to demonstrate how zero carbon affordable homes can respond to both climate emergency and the interests of local people wishing to customise their new home.”

Image (l-r): Stuart Edwards, managing director for Green Axis, Cllr Geoff Saul, cabinet member for housing, Carl Jones, project manager, and Craig Strachan, enabling development director for Green Axis.

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