A large amount of new housing being proposed in Guildford still fails to meet the challenges of Climate Change, despite the council declaring a Climate Emergency. There are examples of new houses still being proposed to be built with gas boilers etc. Some developers are beginning to be serious about climate change e.g. Taylor Wimpey are proposing a Energy Centre approach at Wisley.
A recently approved scheme in Lewisham is a an example of what can be achieved on a modest scheme of 36 Dwellings combining interesting architecture, place making and compliance with Passivhaus Standards.
Phoenix Community Housing supported by their architects Mikhail Riches have had a planning application for 36 homes built to Passivhaus standards accepted in Lewisham. Phoenix Community Housing created a clear brief that included an obligation for the design to be built to Passivhaus Standards.
Mikhail Riches, are the architects responsible for the 2019 RIBA Stirling Prize Winner development Goldsmith Street in Norwich. They have created a design of 3 terraces, 2 of which respect the sloping site to manage the level change. The design integrates sustainability with placemaking. The street section has been developed to integrate SUDS, incorporate parking whilst maximising usable landscape for residents.
The heart of the site is the Community Street. It has been designed as a shared surface with a Community Garden on the south facing side. Private gardens face onto the Community Garden breaking down public private barriers and encourage people to meet.
Guildford should be demanding more of the developments coming forward. Proposals for 50 houses in Wood Street Village 22/P/01371 include using Gas Boilers with some improvement to insulation. The council as the client for the major development at Guildford Park Road also have a opportunity to demonstrate what can be done by demanding high environmental standards for the development.
Come to our Annual Architecture Lecture 2022: Sustainable Design in Housing, addressing the Climate and Energy crisis see link below for details
Help us make Guildford better
We want our town to be vibrant, attractive and liveable. We support development that brings a sense of place and enhances the best aspects of our town. If such aims can be embraced, we believe Guildford has the chance to lead the way in enabling sensitive and sustainable development.
Pressures for development are increasing. Planning rules are being eased. The Society’s commitment to standing up for Guildford is needed more than ever.
Support Us
Getting involved allows the society to continue its work. We welcome new members, from every age and background. Membership provides an opportunity for you to contribute to the continued health of the town and surrounding area, and to meet other people who care about Guildford.
