Plans to build 20 low carbon homes in Liversedge are to go ahead.
Kirklees Cabinet approved proposals for a total of 125 new homes on the former RM Grylls Middle School site.
The plans include 20 new homes constructed to a certified Passivhaus standard. The Passivhaus standard is a recognised German standard for low energy building.
The move comes in response to Kirklees Council’s Climate Emergency Declaration in 2019 and pledge to achieve net zero by 2038. It also helps address the current energy crisis, which has resulted in many Kirklees residents experiencing fuel poverty.
Materials that reduce heat loss and energy use will be used to build the homes. Homes will have additional layers of insulation, airtight glazing and mechanical ventilation, as well as heat recovery systems, to help retain heat and make the homes energy efficient.
Each home is likely to achieve a 31% reduction in emissions in comparison to a regular house build. This fulfills new government guidelines under the Future Homes Standard.
The construction method is also innovative. All elements will be built in a factory and will be brought to site for assembly. This will reduce building time.
David Shepherd, Strategic Director of Growth and Regeneration at Kirklees Council, said: “As a council, we are committed to our 2038 zero carbon target and exploring all areas of our service delivery to transform the way we do things and make a real impact on carbon reduction.
“This pilot is testament to our approach to seek innovative solutions and I am very excited to see if this type of construction could help shape the future of building new council housing in Kirklees.”
The next stage will see a full planning application in 2023. Following on from this Kirklees Council will then award a construction partner with the contract. Work will then start next autumn.
