David Taylor Close, Heather - client: NCHA

This scheme of 11 homes, developed on a rural exception site in the village of Heather, has been developed in order to meet and address local housing needs. There are nine properties for social rent along with two houses for Rent-to-Homebuy. These are aimed at local people who either live in the Parish or have a connection with it.

The support of the Parish Council was extremely beneficial in progressing the scheme and there was close liaison with both the Planning Department and Urban Designer at North West Leicestershire District Council. Planning permission was secured in March 2010. 

NCHA Architects adopted a  central farm courtyard design in order for the new properties to blend sympathetically with the village and it's rural surroundings. The design also maximises the location with many of the properties benefitting from lovely views of the open countryside. The scheme has achieved an A+ 'Ourplace' rating, a standard developed by North West Leicestershire District Council that ensures a robust and thorough approach to urban design.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the properties achieve a Code for Sustainable Homes level 3 rating, in order to reduce the properties energy consumption and environmental impact. Specific energy saving features incorporated include a Mechanical Heat Recovery System, gas savers and high levels of insulation.

The total cost of the project was £1.4 million. A grant totalling £634,000 was received from the Homes and Communities Agency, with the balance provided from private  finance. Construction work was completed by William Davis Ltd in March 2011, with residents moving in immediately.

Architect: NCHA Architects

Developer: William Davis Ltd

Local Authority: North West Leicestershire District Council