Esh Construction Delivers Net Zero Homes in Middlesbrough

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In Middles brough, Esh Construction is advancing sustainable housing delivery through its ongoing Kedward Avenue development for Thirteen Group. This project comprises ten timber‑framed homes four bungalows and six semi‑detached units designed to achieve net‑zero carbon standards and be highly energy efficient. The properties will incorporate enhanced insulation, triple‑glazed windows, air source heat pumps, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR), photovoltaic solar panels, battery storage, and electric vehicle charging points externally.

To meet net‑zero carbon criteria, the homes will undergo rigorous energy performance testing, aiming for a Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) score of two or lower significantly stricter than the typical threshold of five. Mark Binns, Operations Director for Esh’s affordable housing division, described the development as a landmark moment, underlining a shared commitment to delivering future‑proofed, gas‑free homes that leverage cutting‑edge sustainable technologies.

This initiative exemplifies a broader shift in the built environment toward fabric‑first, low‑carbon approaches. Timber‑framed construction facilitates off‑site component assembly, reducing waste, improving quality control and accelerating delivery timelines while significantly slashing operational emissions. The inclusion of MVHR systems and air source heat pumps further enhances thermal efficiency and indoor comfort, offering residents reduced energy bills and improved environmental performance.

These ten homes in Teesside underscore the potential for affordable housing providers and their construction partners to raise sustainability standards through integrated low‑carbon technologies, exemplary design and comprehensive energy strategies.

What this means:
This project demonstrates how combining high fabric standards, renewable energy systems and smart design can yield truly net‑zero ready homes. It provides a replicable model for affordable housing that boosts energy performance, reduces emissions and delivers resident benefits while helping the UK progress toward its built‑environment net‑zero ambitions.

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