At Selworthy Road, our proposals for Alliance Homes seek to deliver high-quality 100% affordable housing on the site of a former school and tower block.
The context
The site presents an opportunity to address the local need for affordable housing while showing how new development can respond positively to the climate emergency. However, the site also poses significant design challenges including accommodating Flood Zone 3 flood compensation, separate storm water attenuation and the need to raise ground levels, together with a gas main/easement, existing electricity sub-station, and existing trees.
Our approach
The proposed development comprises 36 homes, all of which will be affordable, with a mix of one bed maisonettes and two, three and four bed houses. The area kept undeveloped to act as ‘flood compensation’ also provides amenity space, wildlife habitat with landscape enhancements and retains existing pedestrian access with an improved route.
For the housing, a fabric-first design approach combines high levels of insulation, thermally efficient doors and windows, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery to reduce both heating demand and residents’ long-term running costs. Renewable energy technologies, including roof-mounted solar panels and air source heat pumps, will provide low-carbon electricity, heating and hot water, enabling all homes to target an EPC A rating.
The outcome
The proposals show how affordable housing can deliver far more than new homes alone. By combining low-carbon design, landscape enhancements and high-quality placemaking, the scheme will create a resilient new neighbourhood that benefits both residents and those of the surrounding area.
Our plans are currently awaiting a decision by North Somerset Council.