Policy information sourced from the Houghton Regis Neighbourhood Plan

H2: Sustainable Development

The design and standard of all new development will be expected to achieve a high level of sustainable design and construction.

All new development will be optimised for energy efficiency, targeting net zero carbon emissions. This involves:

  • Siting and orientation to optimise passive solar gain.
  • The use of high quality, thermally efficient building materials.
  • Installation of energy efficiency measures such as loft and wall insulation and double/triple glazing.
  • The incorporation of on-site energy generation from renewable sources such as unobtrusive solar panels appropriately positioned.

With regard to existing buildings:

  • The retrofit of existing buildings, including heritage properties, is encouraged to reduce energy demand and to generate renewable energy where appropriate, provided that historic characteristics are safeguarded.
  • Alterations to all existing buildings must be designed with energy reduction in mind and comply with sustainable design and construction standards.

All new development will be expected to minimise the use of water, provide water storage and manage surface water, using measures such as permeable paving.

All new development should be designed to facilitate active travel choices, prioritising walking and cycling, with appropriate provision for secure cycle parking and, where necessary, suitable connections to new or existing footpaths and cycleways.

For more information, please visit the Houghton Regis Neighbourhood Plan