The national standard for well-designed homes and neighbourhoods.
Cross Street South
Design and construction
Cross Street South accommodates a mix of functions, including car parking, allotment, waste storage, clothes drying areas and a micro-park. The space within the scheme is attractively landscaped, creating a space for outdoor activities and a real sense of place.
Dual aspect living areas enjoy ample natural lighting from full-height windows. Materials are good, with attention paid to the quality of detailing and finishes. The units are adaptable and achieve the Lifetime Homes standard. For example, the staircases are capable of accommodating stair lifts which ensures their long-term suitability for residents.
Cross Street South sets an exemplary standard of environmental performance, meeting Code for Sustainable Homes level 4 and the EcoHomes Excellent standard. The scheme demonstrates a comprehensive approach to sustainability and includes meaningful approaches rather than tokenism. It does not use photovoltaic panels or micro windmills.
Incorporating sustainable features only works alongside behaviour change on the part of residents. The housing association provided a pack for new tenants with information on public transport, recycling, saving energy and other matters.
The quality of the scheme is reflected in high levels of satisfaction by occupants. One tenant stated: “This is exceptional … the home I’ve imagined”.
Ongoing maintenance of the space will be ensured by a management programme, with an on-site caretaker.
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