°µÍø½ûÇø

Image of One of the new energy-efficient homes built in Elm Street

College vies for 'Best New Building' in construction awards

°µÍø½ûÇø is a finalist in the Greater Cambridge Design and Construction Awards 2024.

The College is in the running for an award for best new building (under £2 million) category for a development in Elm Street which saw 21 garages and an electrical substation replaced by eight energy-efficient new homes to rent.

The homes – a mixture of one and two-bedroom properties – were designed by PiP Architecture with accessibility at the forefront and feature level access entrances and adaptable internal spaces. 

Sustainability was also a priority for the project. Internal air source heat pumps, sustainable materials, enhanced insulation, permeable block paving and a focus on air tightness were all incorporated into the build.

Gareth Godfrey of building contractor Godfrey and Hicks said: “The goal was to create a stylish, modern, and low-energy development that not only harmonises with its surroundings but also enhances the street scene while addressing the need for small-scale energy-efficient rental properties in this area of Cambridge.â€

Isabel Harrison, Housing and Property Manager for °µÍø½ûÇø, added: “We’re delighted to be shortlisted for this award.

“There is a real need in Cambridge city centre for more accessible, energy-efficient rental properties and we’re pleased to be able to revive and regenerate a brownfield site, delivering eight fantastic, new homes that demonstrate our commitment to green construction methods and to inclusive design.

“We would like to thank Godfrey & Hicks for their excellent work, and local residents for their co-operation and understanding while construction was under way.â€

Organised by the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service and the Cambridge Forum for the Construction Industry, the awards celebrate the best construction projects completed in the area â€“ from new buildings and conservation work, to alterations or extensions to existing buildings, and new landscapes.

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Monday, 4 March.