Westland Heath
Updated: 14 March 2024
Location: Sudbury
Developer: Taylor Wimpey
Number of units: 5 houses
Aim(s) of Project: Trial potential FHS technologies and enhanced fabric
Construction method: Timber frame and masonry construction
Energy Compliance method: SAP 2012
Overheating compliance method: TM59
Construction start: September 2022
Construction finish: April 2023
Overview of Project and Specification
The project constructed homes in both timber frame and masonry. All have reduced thermal bridging and air tightness in comparison with standard specifications. Glazing was triple glazed and front doors were A-rated. All have wastewater heat recovery.
Key learnings
- The trial proved that Taylor Wimpey could meet the 75-80% emission reduction through electrification based on the five-plot trial.
- More storage space is required to accommodate the various technologies – also all plots require cylinder cupboards. This requires a design change for plots that are normally powered by Combi boilers.
- More M&E input at design stage required to consider a holistic design approach with the various technologies.
- Consumer running costs must be considered at design stage.
- It’s important to explore options to reduce demand i.e. Wastewater Heat Recovery (WWHR) and utilise PV generation to assist with lowering energy usage and consumer cost.
- Understanding of crossover of trades, sequencing etc is very important.
- Strategic support required including consumer education and operational behaviours to be considered.