In 2016 we won a SHIFT award for an environmental upgrade of our Sorrel and Campion House scheme in Bowthorpe, Norwich.
Heating
We replaced many of the scheme’s facilities, which were due for renewal, with environmentally-friendly options to help lower running costs for tenants.
A new biomass boiler, which burns wood pellets from a sustainable source, has replaced the old communal gas boiler. More energy-efficient, cost-effective and efficient to run, it has cut the service charge that tenants pay towards heating expenses.
Window and doors
Wooden-framed windows and external doors have been replaced with energy-efficient versions, to prevent heat loss from flats, also lowering tenants’ service charge.
Lighting
New, energy-efficient motion-sensor LED lighting is being fitted throughout the scheme’s communal corridors. Previously, communal lights were running constantly, wasting a significant amount of energy. It also means that corridors are brighter and more attractive. External lighting is also being replaced. It will operate on a solar sensor, which will switch external lighting on as the natural daylight fade
Landscaping
Our Estate Services team helped to redesign the scheme’s communal gardens. Previously there were large lawn areas, with few plants and trees. These have now been planted with wildflowers, flowering fruit trees and woodland plants. A bird table was created from salvaged/recycled timber. The new garden design is more wildlife-friendly as well as a more pleasant environment for tenants to enjoy
Eco Fun Day
We invited tenants to an ‘eco fun day’ to help them reduce their energy and water usage further. The event brought many new and existing tenants together for the first time, helping to reduce social isolation and combat loneliness.
The new sense of community has led to fewer reports of anti-social behaviour (ASB) and reduced fly tipping at the scheme.