First residents move into new energy-efficient homes in Deeside

The first residents have moved into their homes at ClwydAlyn’s Northern Gateway development in Garden City, Deeside, marking a significant milestone in the creation of 100 affordable and energy-efficient properties.

The homes, built by Castle Green Partnerships in collaboration with Flintshire County Council and the Welsh Government, offer a range of property types, including two, three, and four-bedroom houses, two-bedroom bungalows, and one- and two-bedroom apartments.

Each home is designed with sustainability and energy efficiency at its core.

Built using timber frames and featuring high levels of insulation, the properties are equipped with air source heat pumps for heating and hot water, as well as solar electricity panels to help residents reduce energy costs and environmental impact.

Krzysztof Oko, one of the first residents to move into the development, described the move as “life-changing.”

“Myself and my mum feel that it is life-changing and is definitely a new life for us both,” said Mr Oko. “Our home is energy efficient, and this will help us so much. It’s amazing to be making our new home here.”

Another resident, Gemma Powell, shared her excitement, noting the long-term benefits of living in a sustainable home.

“The way it is energy efficient means it is brilliant for the environment and from a monetary perspective will help us so much. We’re thrilled to be moving in here today.”

Focus on Sustainability

The Northern Gateway project prioritises reducing fuel poverty and improving residents’ health and wellbeing by ensuring homes are warm and energy-efficient.

The initiative is part of ClwydAlyn’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality, affordable housing across North and Mid Wales.

Penelope Storr, Head of Development and Growth at ClwydAlyn, said: “We’re delighted to welcome everyone who is moving into their homes. Seeing residents benefit from modern, sustainable homes is at the heart of what we do. These homes not only provide comfort and security but also help to reduce energy costs, making a real difference in day-to-day life. It’s wonderful to see the positive impact this has on our community.”

Castle Green Partnerships, the contractor for the project, emphasised the environmentally friendly construction methods used.

“The homes are being built using sustainably sourced, precision-made timber frames,” explained Eoin O’Donnell, Partnerships Director at Castle Green. “This is a fast, reliable method of building, with lower CO2 emissions than traditional masonry construction. It’s enabled us to deliver much-needed, high-quality, energy-efficient affordable new homes in Deeside quickly. We’re on course to build and handover all 100 homes in just 15 months.”

Energy Efficiency

With rising energy costs affecting households across the UK, the focus on energy efficiency at Northern Gateway is particularly timely.

The integration of renewable technologies and sustainable materials is designed to help reduce residents’ energy bills while contributing to the local authority’s wider environmental goals.