First look at three new eco-homes built in Hove

The Green Mews homes have been built just off Hogarth Road in Hove, a site previously occupied by double garages and workshops.

After planning permission was granted to build the detached houses in 2017, the main structure was erected in less than three weeks.

All three are two-bedroom homes with an open plan living, dining and kitchen area.

The first floor has two bedrooms and a bathroom, as well as a balcony area. Outside, each unit has a hardstanding area with an enclosure for bins and bikes.

The main aim was to be carbon neutral through to completion.

To do this, developers made the decision to convert from an original concrete and steel concept to a cross laminated timber (CLT) structure.

The properties have high performance insulation. A sedum roof adds to the high levels of insulation and contributes to the scheme's biodiversity, while all sanitary and light fittings have been chosen for their energy and water efficiency.

Since its completion, it has been confirmed the scheme far exceeds carbon negative.

Between 50 and 80 tonnes of greenhouse gas is emitted during the construction of a masonry house build. The manufacture of these properties emitted five tonnes of C02 during manufacture and transport of the CLT building to the site.

They have eight solar panels with storage batteries, underfloor heating and 180mm of insulation to the exterior walls with cladding made from 90 per cent recycled plastic, paper and wood.

A spokeswoman from Foster and Co estate agents said the development is “one of the greenest in the area”.

“It’s positive for the local community and its future,” she said.

The development has also won a mid-scale residential award from Sussex Heritage Trust after the properties achieved an outstanding EPC rating of A:102.

“It's a rating I have personally never seen before, which is quite a triumph and one of the main objectives of the development was to be carbon neutral, which they achieved,” the spokeswoman added.