An exclusive development of net-zero carbon homes on the edge of Hertford has been designed to meet the maximum five-star rating under the Home Quality Mark. This is the first time nationally that a small development by a niche developer has been designed to meet this high criteria. Waterford Wick on Sacombe Road, includes just eight houses designed to a high environmental standard with a wide variety of eco-features, proving that sustainability and luxury can go hand in hand.
The Home Quality Mark is a national certification scheme and has been developed to give homebuyers the confidence that they are choosing a well built, highly sustainable and environmentally friendly home that is built to exceed the current building standards. Carefully crafted by Hertford-based developer Heritage Estate Group to minimise the effects on the environment and lower running costs, the homes at Waterford Wick represent the highest level of quality. This top rating from Home Quality Mark will be an added draw for potential purchasers who can now purchase these stunning homes off plan.
The eight detached homes, attractively located on the edge of Waterford Heath Nature Reserve, utilise the latest in renewable technology, innovative design and state of the art construction techniques. Eco features include highly efficient heat pumps, photovoltaic panels, rainwater recycling, superior sound insulation, waste water heat recovery systems and advanced ventilation for enhanced air quality. The development is net-zero carbon with all carbon emissions from the construction phases offset, as well as 95% of demolition and construction waste diverted from landfill. The homes will have an ‘A’ rated Energy Performance Certificate, which is the most efficient, meaning low utility bills for residents. Not only does Waterford Wick take a green approach to energy saving, it will also increase the ecological value of the land and improve biodiversity.
Stuart Smart from Heritage Estate Group said: “Our vision for Waterford Wick was to create a collection of premium homes that had as little environmental impact as possible, while not compromising on style and luxury. This is a unique location on the edge of the nature reserve and surrounded by countryside, so we wanted the development to sit lightly in the environment, enhancing local ecology, reducing energy usage and boosting the wellbeing of residents. We are proud this has been achieved and recognised with the five-star Home Quality Mark.”
These are some of the first Home Quality Mark homes designed to meet the criteria for a 5 star rating. The standard was created to give homebuyers clear information from independent experts that they are choosing a well-built, cost-effective home including indications of the running costs, how the home will benefit their health and wellbeing and its environmental footprint. Every home awarded the Home Quality Mark certificate meets standards that are significantly higher than minimum standards such as building regulations.
The houses at Waterford Wick are available in a range of three and four-bedroom layouts, each with its own car parking and private garden, as well as electric car charging points. Interior spaces are light and airy with a high quality specification that includes low energy lighting and smart home technology. The hub of each home is the flexible open plan kitchen and dining area with bifold doors to the garden. The sweeping views of the nature reserve and surrounding fields provides a strong connection with nature, promoting a sense of wellbeing. Despite this peaceful location, the development is well connected just a short distance from Hertford town centre and in easy reach of road and rail links to London and beyond, making it a truly sustainable location.
