A SMALL group of councillors and construction workers gathered to celebrate a brand-new zero-carbon affordable housing development.

Mike Evemy, deputy leader of the Cotswold District Council and cabinet member for finance, cut an orange ribbon to mark the completion of an exciting new housing development in Moreton-in-Marsh.

Over the last few years, CDC has teamed up with Bromford Housing Association to redevelop a cul-de-sac in Stockwells.

Around 28 of the new two and three-bedroom homes were made at the Ilke Homes' factory Yorkshire, before being transported to Moreton-in-Marsh and assembled on-site.

They include sustainable features such as air source heat pumps, solar roof panels, electric vehicle charging points and enhanced insulation.

CDC provided £550,000 of grant funding to contribute towards some of the costs of the energy-saving features. 

Juliet Layton, cabinet member for planning and regulatory services, said: "We are thrilled to celebrate the official opening of the Stockwells affordable housing site in Moreton-in-Marsh.

"This development not only addresses the pressing need for affordable housing in our district but also enriches the fabric of our communities. 

"Providing sustainable and affordable homes for our residents is a top priority, and Stockwells represents a significant step forward in achieving this goal.

"I would like to thank our partners Bromford for their hard work.”

Joe Harris, leader of CDC, said: "It was quite something to see these homes delivered to the site on lorries and impressive how quickly they went up.

"We believe that by incorporating renewable energy sources and innovative technologies, we can not only combat climate change but also improve the quality of life for our residents."

Bromford project manager Millie Nicholls said: “We’re incredibly proud of the new homes we have built at Stockwells, which utilise some of the latest technology to keep them warmer for longer while also reducing our customer’s energy bills, making them the most energy-efficient homes we have ever built.

"All of the properties have already been let and we’ve begun welcoming customers into their new homes, where we wish them many years of happiness.”