Springfield Meadows, developed by Greencore Homes, is a custom-build housing development on the outskirts of Oxfordshire village Southmoor.

It has used One Planet Living throughout its design and planning processes and has done so in its construction phase too. This ambitious development has had its One Planet Action Plan endorsed as a Global Leader in One Planet Living by Bioregional.

The development proposal offers 16 plots for custom-build options of 2, 3, 4 and 5-bed homes. There are 9 affordable homes, which are designed and delivered to the same high standards.

Creating warm, healthy homes in a thriving, green community

Springfield Meadows is designed to help residents lead happier and healthier lives with a very small carbon footprint, engaging with nature and creating a strong sense of community.

The homes, built using local labour, are highly energy-efficient, use natural materials and good ventilation. The use of an innovative construction system using natural materials like hemp creates an approximately 90% reduction in carbon emissions due to construction compared to a standard home in the UK of a similar size.

All homes are designed to be zero carbon in operation, with solar panels and a connection to green power for any surplus demand. Residents can connect with nature, as they benefit from large gardens offering the opportunity for growing their own food, a central green space to enjoy as a community, a wildlife pond, a community orchard, and a herb garden.

A model for sustainable rural development

As a rural development that’s also responding to housing need in the area, the scheme is required by planning rules to be relatively low-density. This has enabled the creation of a place full of nature and space, with a wildlife pond, community orchard and herb garden. To incentivise sustainable modes of travel, excellent bus connections are enhanced by free bus vouchers for residents in their first year of residence.

There is also a car club with electric vehicles, promoted by Greencore Homes, helping to cultivate a sustainable sharing culture and strengthening community bonds by providing opportunities for residents to meet and chat.

Greencore Homes wants to create a sense of community, as well as encourage residents to live more sustainable lives. It will establish a management company and incorporate the One Planet Living action plan into its initial remit. The company will then be handed over to residents, giving them a sense of ownership of their community.

About the developer

Greencore Homes delivers highly sustainable and beautifully designed projects in its home patch of Oxfordshire and the Thames Valley. Its philosophy is to ensure its schemes are beneficial to local communities and the environment.