Sanctuary Homes has achieved top energy efficiency ratings for two of their properties as part of a pilot project to deliver sustainable homes for the future.

The homes, at Sanctuary's £25 million Newfield Square development in the Nitshill area of Glasgow, have been built to the Passivhaus standard, which is the highest level achievable under Scottish Building Standards.

Residents in Passivhaus homes don't need to rely on renewable technologies such as heat pumps, and are expected to benefit from significantly reduced energy bills and improved internal air quality.

The homes are among 10 at the development that have used high energy-saving specifications as part of Glasgow City Council's drive for sustainability.

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There are also two silver, four gold and two platinum standard houses which meet various energy efficiency criteria including the use of insulated window and door frames, heat recovery and solar thermal hot water systems.

Over the next 12 months the council will assess how energy efficient the properties are and will also seek the views of residents living in the homes.

Peter Martin, Sanctuary's Group Director – Development, said: "To achieve the Passivhaus standard is fantastic and it underlines our commitment to delivering environmentally sustainable homes.

"We are proud to be able to provide residents with extremely energy efficient homes and look forward to delivering even more in the future."

Councillor Kenny McLean, City Convenor for Neighbourhoods, Housing and Public Realm at Glasgow City Council, said: "The effects of climate change are already with us, and so it is vital that we find ways of reducing our energy consumption and carbon emissions.

"These new Passivhaus homes in Nitshill play an important role in achieving this, and we are delighted to have supported such an important development in Glasgow."

Sanctuary's wider Newfield Square development at Craigbank features a total of 178 properties, of which more than 100 are for affordable rent, while the 76 shared equity homes have all been sold.

(MH/CM)