Construction underway on Bolton’s first ever net zero homes as part of Farnworth overhaul
Bolton’s first ever operationally net zero homes are being built as part of a radical shake up for Farnworth town centre.
It’s been revealed that Capital&Centric’s Farnworth Green – a re-boot of the outdated precinct into a town centre neighbourhood – will feature the company’s first ever operationally net zero homes.
Several of the townhouses currently under construction on site are being built to be emission free, slashing energy bills for their residents and supporting Bolton’s Climate Change Strategy and net zero carbon ambition.
The timber frames of the net zero rental homes can be seen taking shape on site. When complete they’ll be super insulated to make them energy efficient, with reduced air leakage and triple glazed windows. They’ll also boast more solar PV panels and air source heat pumps to supply hot water.
The homes are the first low carbon testers for the social impact developer’s ‘Neighbourhood’ brand, which aims to bring city centre style design-led homes into suburban communities. Once demonstrated, the intention is to role the approach at other brownfield sites across Greater Manchester and beyond.
Capital&Centric’s overhaul of the town centre is on track to be open by the end of 2024, with the current focus on attracting new operators to set up shop in the town.
Tom Wilmot, joint managing director at Capital&Centric, said:
“When it comes to reaching net zero targets, emissions from homes are a big contributor. We’re proud to be testing our first net zero homes at Farnworth Green, delivering our first ‘Neighbourhood’ style homes as part of the wider re-boot of the town centre.
“In declaring a climate emergency, Bolton Council are looking to new ways to regenerate brownfield sites, meet housing demand but also transition to a more sustainable way of life. We’re aiming to set a new blueprint for regeneration of town centres in Farnworth, so it’s only right we test new net zero homes that can then be rolled out in other Greater Manchester communities.”
Farnworth Green is intended to set a new blueprint for the future of town centres in a time where online shopping dominates. The trailblazing approach – supported by the council and Greater Manchester Combined Authority – is aimed at striking a balance between homes, alongside shops, retail spaces, community facilities and green spaces. The end goal is to generate a buzz and put the town centre back at the heart of the community.
Cllr Richard Silvester, Bolton Council's Executive Member for Climate Change and Environment, said:
“Tackling climate change is everyone’s responsibility, and the Bolton Climate Strategy sets out our plan to work with partners to make our borough cleaner and greener.
“So we are delighted that Capital&Centric are leading the way on net-zero house building at Farnworth Green, transforming an underused site into a modern, vibrant and sustainable urban neighbourhood.
“This development, together with the ongoing work on the £20m Long Term Plan, means it is an exciting time for both Farnworth residents and potential investors in other parts of the town.”
The progress follows the development reaching its highest point early this year. On a visit to the site, Mayor Andy Burnham hailed the progress to put town centres back at the heart of community life.
Once complete, Farnworth Green will feature:
Design-led homes: Including 85 one and two bedroom apartments as well as 12 family homes (two and three bedroom) to create a real mix of residents calling Farnworth home
Commercial: Over 20,000 sq.ft of space for bars, cafes and independent stores
Community hub: A groundfloor community hub, providing a space to meet-up
A new public square: Complete with green spaces and places to relax
Outdoor community spots: Including an events pavilion, set to support outdoor community events from art and live music to makers markets
Greenery: Lush landscaping to introduce greenery to the town centre