We recognize there is a climate emergency so the Mayday plan will nurture and protect the of the natural assets of the site.
The not-for-profit viability model supporting the scheme, allows for the proper level of investment into the environmental design of the buildings. Our increased cost per sqm of building means better construction and energy standards than the conventional developer model.
This means lots more insulation and significantly reduced energy demand, which bring two key benefits: Low energy demand means less energy is required to heat the houses, and the running costs of the buildings will be significantly reduced for their occupiers.
In addition to the low energy design principles of the buildings, it is envisaged all energy will be met using renewable technologies. South facing roofs and orientation make this masterplan an ideal opportunity for the site to meet all of its own energy requirements renewably and locally.
‘We should expect a major, landmark town centre development like Saxonvale to present, even at outline stage, strategies for low/zero carbon buildings, ideally based on a fabric first approach to building envelopes, more detailed targets for waste reduction , and initial proposals for renewable energy.’
It is proposed to use natural, low environmental impact construction materials and methods. The reduced scale of the development, means that there is more opportunity to use more environmentally friendly materials such as timber frame, natural insulations, breathable construction.
It is envisaged all materials will either be natural, recyclable or recycled, with ‘whole life cycle’ assessment carried out.
In addition to this, by being in control of the procurement process, Mayday Saxonvale and its stakeholders will have the opportunity to work with local suppliers for local materials, further reducing the embodied energy of the scheme in addition to supporting the local economy.
The landscaping strategy of the masterplan has allowed for reduced density, which means more green space. The site proposals will demonstrate a biodiversity net gain across the whole site from what exists currently. Wildlife areas, green spaces, play and leisure areas with water features will all be enhanced to provide a beautiful and balanced community space both benefiting the environment, and the well being of its occupants.
In comparison – Acorn’s 1970’s development plan
- A huge concrete pad across the entire site, upon which the high density apartments will be constructed. This is carbon wasteful, outdated and an approach no longer fit for purpose.
- The vast majority of remaining open space is given over to roads and parking. Connective greenspace is absent. Trees cannot flourish in the planting positions assigned.
- Watercourses, streams and springs are buried deep underground in large plastic tanks.