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Working in partnership with Hyde Housing Association, the council has earmarked land off Beecholme Drive, Kennington, Ashford, for 19 eco-homes. The 13 houses and six flats would include 17 affordable units for rent or shared ownership.

Ashford Borough Council executive portfolio holder for housing, Cllr Peter Wood, said:
"This exemplar housing scheme would place Ashford at the forefront of environmentally sustainable development and present a beacon of excellence for other local authorities and housing developers."

Carbon dioxide emissions in the build process and day-to-day operation of the homes will be balanced through sustainable and energy-harnessing construction practices and design features, including:

• High levels of insulation
• Biomass central heating
• Solar–powered water heating and energy generation
• Domestic wastewater recycling and rainwater harvesting
• Reduced water usage appliances and fittings
• Sustainable drainage system
• Specialist energy management systems
• Construction materials sourced within 50 miles of the site.

Ashford Borough Council's executive has recommended handing over almost half a hectare of land for Hyde Housing Association to develop the scheme.

The £3 million development is subject to full council agreement, planning approval and a grant from the Housing Corporation. Hyde is investing £2.1 million of its own money into the project.

Hyde Housing Association has guaranteed that the scheme will be zero-carbon and achieve the Government's new Code for Sustainable Homes Level Four standard, Hyde will be aspiring to achieve Level Six. There are currently no other Level Four affordable housing schemes anywhere in the South East, while a Level Six scheme would be unique in the UK.

The proposed development site is currently a grassed area regularly used as a dumping ground for rubbish and occasionally abandoned vehicles. Ashford BC has already spoken to local residents and there will be more consultation before the submission of any planning application.

Cllr Wood added:
"As well as providing much-needed affordable housing the development would enhance the wider environmental improvements and regeneration already being undertaken in the area by Ashford Borough Council to improve the Bybrook Road flats and surrounding area.

"As a growth area we want to be at the forefront of the sustainable design agenda and this development would be a flagship in what can be achieved through commitment and partnership working."

Hyde's partners Faber Maunsell and Avebury, have been commissioned to design and build the scheme.

Hyde assistant director of development Mike Finch said:
"We are delighted to have been selected for this innovative new development by Ashford Borough Council. We look forward to developing these new green technologically advanced homes alongside our partners and to bringing the zero carbon vision to life."