How Can External Insulation Work Transform Shropshire Homes?
Shropshire Towns & Rural Housing (STAR) has completed work to improve the energy efficiency and appearance of 26 Cornish-style prefabs in Gobowen. How will the external insulation work transform these homes?
The improvements to the properties at West Place and Hammon Place represent the first phase of a Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) project.
A grant of £280,000 supported he project
STAR has said that the exterior was upgraded with an external wall insulation system and a sleek render finish. All windows and doors were replaced for enhanced energy efficiency, and roofs received complete renovations.
In addition, rainwater goods were replaced, soffits were upgraded, and ventilation was enhanced with new units.
The main contractor was Sustainable Building Services (UK) Ltd, a seasoned expert in retrofit energy efficiency projects. The total cost of the project was £1.67 million, with a grant of £280,000 provided by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).
Raising the EPC ratings of the homes was the main focus
According to STAR, not only have the properties received an upgrade in their EPC ratings, moving from B and D to Band C but it is said they also have immediately improved the internal comfort conditions for residents.
Additionally, energy usage and heating costs for residents are expected to decrease, contributing to the reduction of fuel poverty.
The project also aims to combat damp and mould issues by increasing the internal surface temperatures of walls and ceilings.
On this, Harpreet Rayet, STAR’s Managing Director explained: “We are delighted to have completed the first phase of this important retrofit decarbonisation project in West Place and Hammonds Place, Gobowen.”
Continuing, Harpreet added: “This project has been a great success, delivering significant benefits to the residents through improved energy efficiency and quality of life. We are proud to have contributed to raising the EPC values of these homes, making a positive impact on the local community and the environment.”
“We look forward to continuing our work with our partners to make a real difference in the lives of those we serve.”
Communities are contributing to supporting net zero through retrofit projects
The completion of this phase of the Gobowen EWI project is said to be a key step forward in the journey towards more sustainable and energy-efficient social housing.
Councillor Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Housing and Assets, added: “This is an excellent programme that not only upgrades the housing stock but brings a real benefit to the tenants in terms of warmer more energy-efficient homes and savings on their bills.
“I was delighted to visit the site earlier in the year to see the works in progress. Climate change is something that affects all of us and by taking steps like this we are supporting our ambition to achieve net zero, both as an organisation and for the country.”
With the support of initiatives like SHDF, communities are not only experiencing immediate improvements in their living conditions but are also contributing to the UK’s net zero target.
