Case Study 2

Countryside Properties, in partnership with the National Trust, is creating of a new 'greener' sustainable housing development on the site of the former Canadian Red Cross Hospital at the Cliveden Estate, near Taplow in Buckinghamshire. The scheme was chosen for its creative vision and environmental sensitivity following a detailed selection process.

The area being developed is a run down 'brownfield' site of 5.7 ha (14 acres), which the National Trust and Countryside Properties are regenerating, to make it once again a thriving part of the local community and the Cliveden Estate. The development of the site will also provide an income that is vital to the National Trust if it is to continue to care for Cliveden in the future.

The project will comprise a development of 135 contemporary 2 and 3 bedroom houses and apartments, and is being built in line with the National Trust's environmental principles.  Cliveden Village is an age restricted development for home buyers aged 55 or above.

All apartments will have a balcony overlooking the woodland or the formal squares, with many being dual aspect. The houses will have courtyard gardens, with a number also benefiting from roof terraces. The properties have been designed to be spacious and offer a contemporary lifestyle, with features such as open plan living, double height spaces, and extensive glazing.

An Estate Manager will be employed to oversee the running of the development, and the National Trust gardeners will maintain the extensive, mature landscaping that surrounds the development to ensure that this is truly an exceptional place to live.

The National Trust's former Regional Director, Robin Mills, said: “Countryside Properties' strong track record in award-winning sustainable housing will ensure that the new scheme enhances the site's role within the Cliveden Estate and the surrounding area. We were impressed by the sensitivity and creative vision with which they approached the site, and the way they have met the rigorous environmental standards set for its development.”

The key environmental principles include:

• Passive energy use will be maximised by using beneficial solar gain and internal ambience will be maintained through the use of a heat recovery system.
• The building envelope will be airtight and maximise thermal insulation.
• Renewable energy will be provided through solar panels which will be used on all pitch roofs (and subject to planning flat roofs as well).

For further information visit www.clivedenvillage.co.uk