Affordable, low-energy development hailed as ‘huge step forward’ for social housing design

Almost 200 affordable homes came one step closer to completion last week, in a low-energy development hailed as a “huge step forward for social housing design”.

The development of 189 affordable, energy efficient homes at Deptford Landings in Grove Street, are being built by Peabody, and expected to be ready for new residents by autumn 2026.

Peabody and development partner Higgins Partnerships held a “topping out” ceremony on February 26, to mark the milestone. They were joined by Mayor of Lewisham, Brenda Dacres, cllr James-J Walsh, cllr Will Cooper, architects and engineers. 

Lewisham council’s Cabinet Member for Inclusive Regeneration & Planning, Cllr Walsh, said: “Deptford Landings marks a huge step forward for social housing design not just in Lewisham, but across Britain.

“We are proud to be working with partners to set new green standards and prove how affordable housing can be climate-friendly, high-quality and beautiful; a place where residents on Lewisham’s housing waiting list will be proud to call home.”

The scheme, which is 100 per cent affordable, is also Peabody’s first large scale venture into providing homes that achieve Passivhaus certification.

Passivhaus refers to buildings created to rigorous energy efficient design standards so that they maintain an almost constant temperature.

The project is thought to be one of the largest single-phase Passivhaus projects in the UK to date.

Cllr Walsh said: “With energy bills and climate change known to be major concerns for many, these cutting-edge homes will use up to 90 per cent less energy for heating and cooling, significantly reducing bills for our residents and lowering carbon emissions.”

Managed by Peabody, the scheme will feature three eight-storey buildings, two of which will have large roof terraces, and a central landscaped courtyard.

The development will include a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom homes, accommodating families as well as smaller households. Each home will feature a private balcony.

Pictured top: Peabody, Higgins Partnerships Lewisham councillors and the Mayor of Lewisham join a topping out ceremony last week (Picture: Steve Bainbridge)