The History
Located to the east of the village of Hunsdon, Hunsdon Lodge Farmhouse came with a green field of approximately 1.19 hectares. The insufficient size of the plot, poor quality soil, restricted access for large agricultural equipment, and the close proximity of housing resulted in the site being granted planning permission to provide 15 new build homes (including 4 affordable homes).
The homes are two storeys with a mixture of semi-detached and detached. Overall, by modern standards, the development density is low. This is reflected in the project ideals to provide a scheme that mirrors the rural qualities of the site and is in-keeping with the local area. This, in turn, has created a high-quality environment.
During the planning stage, neighbours raised objections and concerns. The contractors, however, were sensitive to the needs of the village. Resulting in a turnaround of opinion especially upon completion of the project.
The properties are as energy-efficient as possible. Solar panels, water butts and good quality insulation all feature in these new build homes together with energy-efficient windows and doors. The Hardcore used in the road is made from recycled concrete, and brick rubble is used as a foundation for the patios at the new dwellings.
Hertfordshire Building Control and the contractors held meetings from the outset. Furthermore, with the future homeowners in mind, it was beneficial that ideas and solutions could be worked through together, using the expertise of both parties.
The New Development
The developer J&L Build working in partnership with Hastoe Group provides four 2 and 3 bedroom affordable new build homes. Built to an excellent standard and fitted with the same innovative and sustainable methods as the homes for private sale, they are an asset to the local community. The layout and landscaping together with the materials (using local suppliers where possible) and design of the dwellings, complement the area. The Project Managers involved throughout the project were not only reassured by how the development progressed but also extremely satisfied with the end result and the lack of snagging and issues that they had to face ending in good quality, well-designed homes.
For more information on the developers, visit:
http://jandlbuild.com/
https://www.hastoe.com/