Delivering high-efficiency homes in Essex
£4.2 million development loan
The finance
Through our Greener Homes Alliance initiative, we provided a £4.2 million fixed-rate development facility in conjunction with Homes England. This funding supported the final phase of a three-part scheme, enabling the construction of 15 new homes in Ramsey, Essex. The development met the Alliance’s sustainability criteria, achieving an impressive EPC A rating across all units, with SAP scores between 97-100.
The Greener Homes Alliance offers interest rate discounts for developments where all homes achieve a SAP score of 85 or higher. The highest discount, at 2%, applies to homes reaching a SAP score of 92 or above (EPC A rating). Developments funded through the initiative also benefit from free expert advice from McBains and Octopus Energy.
The result
The Paddocks, Ramsey, is a thoughtfully designed development of 15 detached homes, offering high levels of energy efficiency at an accessible price point, with an average sale price of £470,000. While the homes incorporate gas heating, they achieve outstanding efficiency through high-performance insulation and integrated solar panels.
Each home has been designed to minimise energy consumption while maximising comfort and affordability for residents.
Key sustainability features include:
- Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to generate renewable electricity
- High-performance thermal insulation to enhance energy efficiency
- Electric vehicle charging points to support low-carbon transport choices
This development demonstrates the ability to deliver high-quality, sustainable homes at a competitive price point, meeting the needs of local families while driving forward the UK’s transition to net zero housing.
“We are delighted to support the completion of The Paddocks, Ramsey, through the Greener Homes Alliance. This development showcases how SME housebuilders can deliver high-quality, energy-efficient homes that offer lasting benefits to residents and the environment.”
Andy Scott, Co-Head of Debt at Octopus Real Estate
