An application for full planning permission for a low density development of eighteen “zero carbon” bungalows with 30 car parking spaces on an unallocated four acre greenfield site above Pinhoe has been submitted for approval.
Three years ago the city council approved an application by developer Verto Homes to build 40 similar dwellings on an adjacent four acre greenfield site which are currently under construction.
However council officers have submitted a written objection to the new Church Hill scheme that says the proposals are contrary to Exeter Local Plan policies intended to protect Exeter’s northern hills and landscape setting.
Illustrative view of the development. Image: Design & Access Statement.
The application repeatedly refers to the proposed bungalows as “zero carbon” dwellings and an included “net zero carbon statement” says it could “serve as an exemplar project, leading the way for future residential development in the city.”
The UK Green Building Council’s framework, which outlines what net zero carbon means in terms of building construction and operation, makes clear that new buildings cannot claim to be “net zero” if a whole life carbon assessment of their impact has not been undertaken.
UK Advertising Standard Authority guidance also says that carbon reduction claims must be based on the full life cycle of products unless they state otherwise, and must make clear the limits of that life cycle.
A whole life carbon assessment is not included in the submitted application documents.
Comments on the Church Hill development proposals can be submitted via the city council website where the application can be viewed in full.
