Peabody unveils plans for first Passivhaus scheme

The Deptford Landings scheme was designed by architecture firm Allford Hall Monaghan Morris and engineering firm Max Fordham.

 The development will consist of three eight-storey buildings, two of which will have roof terraces, as well as a central courtyard.

The scheme is part of a six-plot, 4.54 hectare masterplan by Australian developer Lendlease, which also includes shops, a renovated pub and green spaces. Lendlease originally secured planning permission for the masterplan, including plot six where the Peabody scheme will be located, in 2016. 

Once it took on the scheme, Peabody secured a non-material amendment to the planning permission in February 2023 to allow it to deliver the scheme to Passivhaus standards.

Passivhaus buildings usually make use of triple-glazed windows, high levels of airtightness and mechanical ventilation. A heating system is still required, but it should only need to operate at a lower level.

Simon Barry, managing director of development at Peabody, thanked Hastoe Housing Association and Camden Council for sharing their experience of developing similar schemes with the landlord.

“Learning from others in the field allowed us to design and manage much of the project in-house and understand the full requirements and costs early on,” he said.

“This was not only more cost effective for us, but ensured more certainty when we were tendering for a project partner.”

Mr Barry continued: “At a time when building new affordable homes in the capital is increasingly challenging, our investment of more than £75m, including grant support, will provide nearly 200 homes for Londoners. 

“As well as being fully affordable, they’re the first we’re building to Passivhaus standards. Every home will be low cost and low energy, helping to significantly reduce energy bills for residents while being better for the environment.”

Declan Higgins, chief executive of Higgins, said: “Plot six forms part of the exciting regeneration plans for Deptford Landings, which will eventually see the creation of a brand-new community with over 1,000 new homes, retail and workspaces to support local businesses along with new landscaping, a park and public realm to enhance the area.”

This might mark a change in direction for the sector in England. As from January 2025, all new build homes in Scotland will have to meet a new Scottish version of the Passivhaus standard.